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Once your cookie crust has finished baking, it's essential to allow it to cool completely before proceeding to the next steps. This crucial step ensures that the cream cheese frosting maintains its intended texture and doesn't melt into the crust, resulting in a gooey mess rather than a delightful dessert. To cool the crust efficiently, transfer it to a wire rack, allowing air to circulate around it. Depending on your kitchen environment, this could take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Patience is key here—rushing this step can compromise the final result.

Fall-Inspired Fruit Pizza

Celebrate the flavors of fall with a delightful Autumn Harvest Fruit Pizza that combines a warm spiced cookie crust, creamy cream cheese frosting, and a colorful array of seasonal fruits. This fun and indulgent dessert is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights in. With choices like apples, pears, and pomegranate seeds, you're encouraged to personalize your pizza while enjoying the nutritional benefits of fresh ingredients. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this stunning and tasty treat!

Ingredients
  

For the Crust:

1 large sugar cookie dough log (16 oz)

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon maple syrup

For the Toppings:

1 cup sliced strawberries

1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

1 cup sliced kiwi

1 cup grapes, halved

½ cup pomegranate seeds

¼ cup chopped pecans (optional for crunch)

1 tablespoon honey (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Make the Cookie Base:

      - Slice the sugar cookie dough log into thin rounds (approximately ¼ inch thick) and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

        - In a small bowl, mix the ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Sprinkle this mixture over the cookie rounds for added flavor.

          - Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove and let cool completely on a wire rack.

            Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:

              - In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth.

                - Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.

                  - Stir in the vanilla extract and maple syrup until fully combined. Set aside.

                    Assemble the Fruit Pizza:

                      - Once the cookie base has completely cooled, spread an even layer of cream cheese frosting across the top. Use a spatula for a smooth finish.

                        - Artists' delight! Arrange the sliced strawberries, diced apples, sliced kiwi, and halved grapes decoratively over the frosting.

                          - Sprinkle pomegranate seeds and chopped pecans over the fruits for an added crunch.

                            Finish with a Drizzle: If desired, drizzle honey over the entire fruit-topped pizza for a touch of sweetness.

                              Slice and Serve: Cut into wedges or squares and serve immediately. Enjoy your delightful feast of autumn flavors!

                                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 30 min | 12 servings