Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 12 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Quick Answer
This Brownie Fruit Pizza combines a rich brownie crust with a creamy layer and vibrant fruits, making it the perfect festive dessert.
When thinking of how to impress my friends at the upcoming holiday parties, I knew I wanted to create something vibrant and delightful that would not only satisfy the sweet tooth but also provide a festive flair to the table. Enter the Brownie Fruit Pizza — a luscious, chocolatey crust topped with a creamy layer and an array of colorful fruits that screams joy and celebration. Living in New York City, I often get swept up in the energy of the season, and there’s something incredibly rewarding about presenting a dish that is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
A Festive Dessert for Celebrations
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Visually stunning with a colorful array of fresh fruits.
- Rich chocolate brownie crust paired with a creamy, dreamy topping.
- Perfect for holiday gatherings and impressing your friends.
- Easy to customize with your favorite fruits.
- Deliciously decadent yet refreshing with the fruity toppings.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Brownie Fruit Pizza:
For the Brownie Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (two sticks)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
For the Fruit Topping:
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup kiwi, sliced
- 1 cup pineapple, diced
- Any additional fruits of choice, such as raspberries or mandarin oranges
How to Make Brownie Fruit Pizza (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Brownie Fruit Pizza:
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Crust
Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large pizza pan or a baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. In a large mixing bowl, melt the unsalted butter in the microwave until it’s just liquid—be careful not to let it bubble. Whisk in the granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy, a sign that you’re on the right track. Next, incorporate the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder to eliminate any clumps. Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring until everything is just combined. The batter will be thick and rich, with that irresistible chocolate aroma wafting through your kitchen.
Step 3: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. You want the edges firm and the center to have a slight jiggle—this ensures a chewy, fudgy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy topping. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, continuing to beat until fully incorporated. Fold in the whipped topping gently to retain the airy texture.
Step 5: Assemble the Pizza
Once the brownie crust is cool, spread the cream cheese mixture over the top, creating a layer of dreamy sweetness. Arrange the sliced fruits over the cream cheese layer in a colorful pattern—this is where you can get creative! The fruits not only add a visual punch but also a refreshing contrast to the rich brownie and creamy topping.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Pop the assembled fruit pizza into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to mingle and the cream cheese layer to set slightly. When ready to serve, slice it like a pizza and watch as everyone’s eyes light up at the vibrant display of colors and textures!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking the Brownies: Keep a close eye on the baking time. Overbaked brownies can become dry and crumbly.
- Not Cooling the Brownies Completely: The cream cheese layer will not adhere properly if the brownie crust is warm.
- Using Non-Fresh Fruits: Choose ripe and fresh fruits for the best flavor; they will elevate the whole dessert.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- If you’re looking to add a little kick, consider a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce over the top of your assembled fruit pizza.
- Choose seasonal fruits to add a festive touch and flavor during holiday gatherings.
- For a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
Variations
- Try using different fruits like raspberries, mandarin oranges, or peaches for a unique flavor.
- Incorporate a layer of chocolate ganache beneath the cream cheese for an extra chocolatey twist.
- Top with nuts or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
How to Serve
- Slice the dessert like a pizza for easy serving.
- Garnish with mint leaves for a fresh presentation.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the brownie crust a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheating: There is no need to reheat; serve cold or at room temperature.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the fruit and cream cheese layer do not freeze well.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Experimenting with this Brownie Fruit Pizza taught me how important freshness is to enhancing flavors—every bite bursts with the essence of the season. Plus, the vibrant colors make it a centerpiece worthy of any holiday gathering!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 12 servings · Serving Size: 1 slice
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~250 calories · 3g protein · 35g carbs · 12g fat
Vibrant Brownie Fruit Pizza Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large pizza pan or baking sheet.
- In a large mixing bowl, melt the unsalted butter in the microwave until liquid. Whisk in the granulated sugar until smooth.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder in a separate bowl. Gradually add to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Spread the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Allow to cool completely.
- Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, then fold in the whipped topping.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled brownie crust. Arrange the fruits on top creatively.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use different fruits for the topping?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by using any fruits you love or have on hand, such as raspberries, mangoes, or mandarin oranges.
2. How do I know when the brownie crust is done baking?
The brownies are done when the edges are firm and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep them chewy.
3. Can I make the Brownie Fruit Pizza ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the Brownie Fruit Pizza a few hours in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve it.
4. Is there a gluten-free option for the brownie crust?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to make the brownie crust gluten-free.
5. How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The brownie crust will remain soft and the fruits fresh.
