Creating delicious memories has never been easier with our decadent Red Velvet fruit pizza recipe. This vibrant dish combines a rich red velvet crust with a vibrant array of fresh fruits that deliver a perfect balance of flavors and colors, delighting your senses from the first bite to the last.
Growing up, Sunday afternoons were our special baking time, a tradition started by my grandmother. Her kitchen often buzzed with sweet scents, but it was her playful twist on desserts that sparked the most anticipation. One summer, she introduced us to her fruit-topped cakes, and I’ve been tweaking it ever since. Her inspiration led to this delectable Red Velvet version, a recipe our family holds dear.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Red Velvet fruit pizza is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a visual feast. You’ll love the ease of making this recipe with ingredients commonly found in your pantry. The contrast between the velvety soft crust and the juicy, fresh fruit gives an indulgent yet refreshing taste. Moreover, its flexibility allows for seasonal fruit variations, making it suitable year-round.
Ingredients Notes
For the perfect red velvet base, use cocoa powder with a deep flavor profile. The choice of fruits can be seasonal: berries in summer or citrus in winter work well. Cream Cheese is essential for the frosting; for a healthier twist, you can use low-fat alternatives. For best results, purchase fresh fruits from the local market to ensure they are ripe and flavorful.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix the dry ingredients for the crust: flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
Step 2
In another bowl, beat the sugar and butter until creamy. Add in eggs, one at a time, along with vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients mixture.
Step 3
Add buttermilk and red food coloring to the mix. Stir until you get a vibrant red dough. Spread this evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is firm. Let it cool completely before adding the toppings.
Step 5
Prepare your frosting by whipping Cream Cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until fluffy. Spread this over the cooled crust and creatively arrange sliced fruits on top.
Storage Options
To preserve the freshness, store any leftover fruit pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish to freeze it, do so without the fruit topping. Wrap the crust with plastic, place it in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge and add fresh toppings before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
This recipe is versatile; swap regular flour for almond flour to make it gluten-free. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of cream cheese. Vegetarians can enjoy it as is, while vegans might substitute eggs with applesauce or flaxseed mixed with water.
Serving Suggestions
This red velvet fruit pizza is perfect for brunch gatherings, summer parties, or as a festive dessert. Pair it with a chilled glass of sparkling wine or iced tea to complement its sweet and fruity flavors. Enjoy it as a light dessert post-dinner or an indulgent snack any time of day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I keep the fruit from making the pizza soggy? Arrange fruit on the pizza just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Ensure the fruit is well-drained and not overly ripe.
Can I use a different base for the pizza? Absolutely! While red velvet offers a unique flavor, a regular sugar cookie or brownie base works equally well. Adjust baking time accordingly as needed.
What fruits work best for this recipe? Berries, kiwi, and mangoes are excellent choices due to their vibrant colors and textures. For a tropical flair, try pineapple or papaya. Always go for fruits in season for the best taste.
Red Velvet Fruit Pizza
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Preferably Dutch-processed
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- 0.75 cup buttermilk at room temperature
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 package cream cheese 8 oz, softened
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups mixed fruits such as strawberries, kiwi, and blueberries
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, buttermilk, oil, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Beat until smooth.
- Spread batter evenly in a greased pizza pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean. Let cool.
- Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread over the cooled crust.
- Arrange mixed fruits over the cream cheese layer. Chill before serving.
