**Input**: Brownie Fruit Pizza
This fun and colorful brownie fruit pizza is a tasty treat that combines a soft brownie base with fresh, juicy fruit and creamy topping. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds!
It’s almost like getting a dessert and a fruit salad all in one go! I love letting everyone choose their toppings—more berries for me, please! 😄 This treat is super easy to whip up for any gathering.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: This adds richness to the brownie base. If you’re in a pinch, you can use salted butter but reduce the added salt in the recipe.
Sugars: A mix of granulated and brown sugar gives the brownies a lovely texture. You can use all granulated sugar if you prefer. Brown sugar adds moisture, so consider using light or dark based on your taste.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is key for the frosting’s tang. If you’re dairy-free, try using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Fruits: Fresh strawberries, blueberries, and kiwis are fantastic. For a twist, you can substitute with seasonal fruits like peaches or apples, or use frozen fruits, but let them thaw and drain first.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Baked Brownies?
Baking brownies can be tricky, but following a few tips will lead to great results. First, make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C). Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean.
- Use a parchment-lined pan for easy removal.
- Don’t overmix the batter after adding the flour; just combine until you see no flour streaks.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before frosting to avoid a melty mess!
How to Make Brownie Fruit Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brownie Base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped cream (or whipped topping)
For the Fruit Topping:
- 1 cup strawberries, diced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup raspberries
- 1 cup kiwi, diced
- 1 cup mixed fruit (optional, such as mango or banana)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep, and then another 25-30 minutes to bake. After that, make sure to let the brownie cool completely, which will take about 30 minutes. So in total, you can expect to spend around 1 hour and 15 minutes before serving your delicious brownie fruit pizza!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brownie Base:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-inch pizza pan or line a round cake pan with parchment paper for easy removal later. In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter. Then, stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until everything is well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, and don’t forget to stir in the vanilla extract!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that your dry ingredients are evenly mixed and helps prevent any lumps in your brownie base.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring until well combined. You should have a thick brownie batter at the end. Pour this delicious batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the surface. Now it’s time to bake!
4. Bake the Brownies:
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, it’s ready! Once done, allow the brownie base to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
5. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition. Finally, gently fold in the whipped cream until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This frosting will add a delightful creamy layer to your brownie!
6. Assemble the Brownie Fruit Pizza:
Once the brownie base has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Now comes the fun part! Arrange your choice of fresh fruits over the frosted brownie, creating a colorful and appetizing design.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the brownie fruit pizza into wedges, and serve immediately. This dessert is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Enjoy your vibrant and delicious creation!
How Can I Substitute the Butter in the Brownie Base?
You can use unsweetened applesauce or a plant-based butter alternative for a healthier option. If using applesauce, substitute 1 cup of butter with 1 cup of applesauce to maintain moisture, but be aware that this might change the texture slightly, making it more cake-like.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! To make this brownie fruit pizza gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure it has a xanthan gum component to help with texture. Check the packaging for any additional adjustments needed.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the fruits looking fresh, you might want to add them just before serving. The brownie base can also be frozen, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Can I Use Other Fruits for Topping?
Yes! Feel free to use any seasonal fruits you enjoy. Sliced bananas, peaches, or even cherries would work great. Just remember that softer fruits like bananas may brown faster, so add them just before serving if you want to maintain their color.
