Strawberry Dessert Pizza

Italian Strawberry Dessert Pizza Recipe with Neufchatel and Berries

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 6

Introduction

Strawberry dessert pizza is a delicious and unique twist on traditional pizza, combining sweet and savory flavors in one delightful dish. This recipe is perfect for those who have a sweet tooth but still want to enjoy a savory meal.

History

The origins of dessert pizza can be traced back to Italy, where pizza was traditionally a savory dish. However, as pizza gained popularity around the world, chefs began experimenting with different toppings and flavors, leading to the creation of dessert pizzas. The combination of sweet fruits, creamy cheese, and a crispy crust has become a favorite among food lovers everywhere.

Ingredients

1 (12-inch) italian bread shell, such as Boboli
12 oz (340 g) neufchatel cheese
3 tbsp honey
2 tbsp orange juice
1 tsp freshly grated orange peel
0.25 cup blueberries
1 pt (473 ml) basket California strawberries, stemmed and sliced
0.25 cup raspberries

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
Bake the bread shell on an ungreased baking sheet for 5 to 7 minutes until crisp. Let it cool.
Meanwhile, in a bowl, beat the cheese, honey, orange juice, and orange peel.
Spread the cheese mixture onto the bread shell, leaving a 0.5-inch border.
Sprinkle the blueberries around the edge of the pizza, and arrange the strawberries inside the circle of blueberries in a starburst pattern.
Mound the raspberries in the center.
Cut into wedges and serve. This recipe makes 6 servings.
Flavor Variations:
Almondine: Substitute milk for the orange juice, omit the orange peel, and mix 0.13 to 0.25 tsp almond extract into the cheese mixture. Sprinkle the dessert with toasted sliced almonds.
Zesty Lemon: Substitute milk for the orange juice, substitute freshly grated lemon peel for the orange peel, and mix 0.25 tsp nutmeg into the cheese mixture.

Variations

You can customize this dessert pizza by using different fruits, such as peaches, pineapple, or even mango. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra decadent touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to let the bread shell cool before spreading the cheese mixture to prevent it from melting too quickly.

- You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite fruits or toppings, such as sliced bananas, kiwi, or even chocolate chips.

- For a crispier crust, bake the bread shell for a few extra minutes before adding the toppings.

Serving Suggestions

This dessert pizza is best served warm, straight out of the oven. You can also top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a perfect dessert pizza is to bake the bread shell until it is crisp and golden brown before adding the toppings. This will ensure that the crust stays crispy and doesn't get soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have a pre-made bread shell, you can use a store-bought pizza crust or even make your own using a simple pizza dough recipe. You can also use a different type of cheese, such as ricotta or mascarpone, for a creamier texture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cheese mixture and slice the fruits ahead of time to save time when assembling the pizza. Just be sure to store the toppings separately and assemble the pizza just before baking.

Presentation Ideas

To make this dessert pizza even more visually appealing, you can arrange the fruits in a decorative pattern or sprinkle some powdered sugar on top before serving.

Pairing Recommendations

This dessert pizza pairs well with a glass of sparkling wine or a cup of hot tea. It's the perfect way to end a meal on a sweet note.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover dessert pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this dessert pizza contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this strawberry dessert pizza contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this dessert pizza contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this dessert pizza contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dessert pizza is a good source of vitamin C, thanks to the strawberries and orange juice.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (bread shell), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Overall, this dessert pizza is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Strawberry dessert pizza is a fun and delicious treat that combines the best of both sweet and savory worlds. With a crispy crust, creamy cheese, and fresh fruits, this dessert is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first saw this recipe for Strawberry Dessert Pizza. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Margaret's house for our weekly recipe exchange. Margaret was known for her delicious desserts, so I knew I was in for a treat.

As I flipped through the pages of her well-worn recipe book, my eyes landed on the page for Strawberry Dessert Pizza. The vibrant colors of the strawberries and the creamy white frosting immediately caught my attention. I could practically taste the sweet and tangy flavors just by looking at the picture.

Margaret noticed my interest and smiled knowingly. "That's one of my favorite recipes," she said. "It's perfect for summer parties and potlucks. Would you like me to show you how to make it?"

I eagerly nodded, and Margaret led me into her kitchen. As she gathered the ingredients, she began to recount the story of how she first learned to make the Strawberry Dessert Pizza. It all started when she attended a cooking class at a local community center, where a visiting chef shared his recipe for this delectable treat.

Margaret listened attentively as the chef demonstrated each step, from preparing the pizza dough to slicing the fresh strawberries. She was captivated by his passion for cooking and his attention to detail. By the end of the class, she was determined to recreate the recipe at home.

With Margaret's guidance, I followed the same steps that she had learned from the chef years ago. We rolled out the pizza dough and baked it until golden brown. Then, we whipped up a creamy frosting made with cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. The aroma of the freshly baked crust mingled with the sweet scent of the frosting, creating a mouth-watering combination.

Next, we arranged the sliced strawberries on top of the pizza, creating a vibrant pattern that was almost too beautiful to eat. But Margaret insisted that the best part was yet to come. She drizzled a homemade strawberry glaze over the top, adding a shiny finish that enhanced the flavors of the dessert.

As we sliced into the pizza and took our first bite, I knew that I had discovered a new favorite recipe. The sweetness of the strawberries paired perfectly with the tangy cream cheese frosting and the buttery crust. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

From that day on, I made the Strawberry Dessert Pizza for every special occasion. It became a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and summer picnics. I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of this delicious dessert.

Over the years, I have added my own personal touch to the recipe, experimenting with different toppings and variations. I have tried using other fruits, such as peaches or raspberries, and even experimented with a chocolate drizzle instead of the strawberry glaze. Each time, the dessert pizza has been a hit, receiving rave reviews from everyone who tries it.

As I sit here now, flipping through the pages of my own recipe book, I am filled with gratitude for the memories and experiences that have shaped my love of cooking. The Strawberry Dessert Pizza will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

And so, as I continue to cook and create new recipes, I carry with me the lessons I have learned from Margaret and that visiting chef so many years ago. Cooking is not just about following a recipe; it is about passion, creativity, and the joy of bringing people together around a delicious meal.

I hope that one day, you too will have the chance to experience the magic of the Strawberry Dessert Pizza. May it bring you as much happiness and delight as it has brought me over the years.