Red White + Blue Fruit Pizza

Red White + Blue Fruit Pizza is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of a cookie bar with luscious cream cheese frosting topped with fresh fruit. This stunning treat is perfect for celebrating the 4th of July or any festive gathering. Its vibrant colors and delicious taste make it a crowd-pleaser, while its easy preparation ensures you can whip it up in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Colors: The red raspberries and blue blueberries create a beautiful display that’s perfect for patriotic celebrations.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dessert ready in under an hour.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of cream cheese frosting and white chocolate chips adds a creamy sweetness that pairs perfectly with fresh fruit.
• Serves a Crowd: This recipe yields 28 pieces, making it ideal for parties or family gatherings.
• Versatile Base: You can customize the toppings to suit your taste by using other fruits or even adding nuts.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick baking pan (9 x 13 x 1.375 inches)
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick baking pan: Ensures easy removal of the cookie bars after baking, preventing them from sticking.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy cream cheese frosting quickly.
• Spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients together without deflating the batter.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

• 2 cups all-purpose unbleached flour (Gold Medal)
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup brown sugar (unpacked)
• 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
• 2 large egg whites
• 1/4 cup unsweetened apple sauce
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz 1/3 less fat cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

For Topping

• 1 1/2 cups blueberries
• 2 cups raspberries

How to Make Red White + Blue Fruit Pizza

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookie base bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Lightly spray a non-stick baking pan measuring 9 x 13 x 1.375 inches with cooking spray. This will prevent sticking and make for easier cleanup.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
1. Flour
2. Baking soda
3. Salt
4. Ground cinnamon

Stir these together until well blended.

Step 4: Whisk Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Granulated sugar
2. Brown sugar with butter
3. Egg whites
4. Applesauce
5. Vanilla extract

Mix until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula in two additions until very well blended. If necessary, add water drop by drop until smooth.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in white chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Spread Batter in Pan

Use the back of a measuring cup to spread the batter evenly across the prepared baking pan.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for approximately 14 to 16 minutes, or until edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Be cautious not to over-bake as this may dry out your bars.

Step 9: Cool on Wire Rack

Once baked, let it cool completely on a wire rack to ensure proper frosting application later on.

Step 10: Make Frosting

While cooling, prepare your frosting by beating together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a mixing bowl until well combined.

Step 11: Frost Cookie Base

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie base, leaving a small margin around edges for presentation.

Step 12: Top with Fresh Fruit

Layer fresh blueberries and raspberries over the frosted surface for an eye-catching finish.

Step 13: Refrigerate

Store your Red White + Blue Fruit Pizza in the refrigerator until ready to serve to keep it fresh.

Step 14: Serve

Cut into squares to serve—aim for about 28 pieces by making seven cuts across one way and four cuts across another way with your knife. Enjoy!

How to Serve Red White + Blue Fruit Pizza

Red White + Blue Fruit Pizza is a delightful dessert that brings festive flair to any gathering. Its vibrant colors and sweet flavors make it perfect for summer celebrations, especially the 4th of July.

Individual Slices

• Serve each slice fresh from the fridge for a refreshing treat. The chilled cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with the fruit.

Family Style

• Present the entire fruit pizza on a large platter. Guests can help themselves, making it a fun and interactive dessert option.

Dessert Bars

• Set up a dessert bar with toppings like extra white chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Guests can customize their slices to their liking.

Picnic Packs

• Cut the fruit pizza into individual portions and pack them in containers for picnics. They are easy to transport and make for a great on-the-go treat.

Kid-Friendly Treats

• Let kids help decorate their own slices with fruit toppings. This can be a fun activity during summer parties or family gatherings.

How to Perfect Red White + Blue Fruit Pizza

To ensure your Red White + Blue Fruit Pizza turns out perfectly every time, here are some useful tips:

• Use room temperature ingredients – This helps create a smoother batter and frosting, resulting in better texture.

• Don’t over-bake – Keep an eye on the baking time; slightly underbaking ensures your cookie base remains soft and chewy.

• Chill before serving – Allowing the fruit pizza to cool completely in the refrigerator enhances flavor and makes slicing easier.

• Choose fresh fruit – Using ripe, seasonal fruits adds natural sweetness and vibrant colors that elevate presentation.

• Adjust sweetness – Feel free to modify the sugar in both the crust and frosting according to your taste preferences.

• Experiment with toppings – Try different fruits such as strawberries or kiwi for variety, ensuring you maintain that patriotic color scheme!

Best Side Dishes for Red White + Blue Fruit Pizza

Pairing side dishes with your Red White + Blue Fruit Pizza can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Corn Salad – A colorful mix of grilled corn, tomatoes, and avocado tossed in lime dressing complements the dessert’s sweetness.

2. Watermelon Feta Salad – The refreshing combination of watermelon and feta cheese provides a light contrast to the richness of the fruit pizza.

3. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella balls, basil, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze create an elegant appetizer that balances flavors well.

4. Patriotic Fruit Salad – Combine blueberries, strawberries, and bananas for another fruity option that mirrors your dessert’s theme.

5. Classic Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad offers a hearty side that pairs well with any summer barbecue spread alongside dessert.

6. Veggie Platter with Hummus – Crunchy veggies dipped in hummus provide a healthy snack option that keeps things light before indulging in dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Red White + Blue Fruit Pizza can be easy, but a few common mistakes can affect your results. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing your cookie base to cool completely is crucial. If you frost it while warm, the frosting will melt and create a mess.

• Overmixing the Batter: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a tough texture.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese is softened before mixing. Cold cream cheese won’t blend smoothly into your frosting.

• Ignoring Oven Temperatures: Every oven varies slightly. Keep an eye on your cookie as it bakes and check for doneness by using a toothpick.

• Not Preparing the Pan Properly: Make sure to spray your baking pan well. This helps prevent sticking, making it easier to cut your bars after baking.

• Neglecting Fresh Fruit Quality: Use fresh, ripe fruit for topping. Avoid overripe or mushy fruit, as it affects both taste and presentation.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It stays fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep away from strong odors to maintain flavor quality.

Freezing Red White + Blue Fruit Pizza

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Red White + Blue Fruit Pizza

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5-10 minutes. This helps retain texture.

• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat as it can make the crust soggy.

• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes, ensuring even warming without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the crust for Red White + Blue Fruit Pizza?

To make the crust, combine flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, sugars, melted butter, egg whites, applesauce, and vanilla until blended. Bake according to recipe instructions for perfect results!

Can I use other fruits on my Red White + Blue Fruit Pizza?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with any seasonal fruits you love. Strawberries or blackberries can also work beautifully!

What if I don’t have white chocolate chips?

You can substitute with chopped chocolate or even leave them out altogether if you prefer a lighter option in your Red White + Blue Fruit Pizza.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure all other ingredients are also gluten-free to keep this dessert safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

The Red White + Blue Fruit Pizza is a delightful dessert that captures the spirit of festive celebrations like the 4th of July. Its versatility allows you to customize toppings based on personal preferences or seasonal fruit availability. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet night at home, this dessert is sure to impress! Give it a try and enjoy every bite!