There’s a certain joy in transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary, and this Cherry Dessert Pizza does just that! Picture this: a warm, fluffy crust that cradles luscious cherry pie filling, all topped with a sweet, crumbly layer that makes each bite feel indulgent. I came across this delightful recipe after a casual gathering with friends, and it has since become my go-to dessert for any occasion.
Imagine surprising your loved ones with a dessert that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare, yet it comes together in under two hours! With its vibrant colors and inviting aroma, this dish is perfect for those moments when you want to impress but without the stress. Whether packed for a potluck or enjoyed at home, this Cherry Dessert Pizza is not just a treat; it’s a reason to gather around the table and share in a sweet moment together. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delicious adventure!
Why is Cherry Dessert Pizza a must-try?
Irresistible flavors: This dessert brings together a delightful union of sweet cherries, buttery crust, and a crunchy crumble that everyone will love.
Quick prep: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to impress!
Versatile fun: Perfect for gatherings, or simply as a cozy treat at home, it fits any occasion effortlessly.
Crowd pleaser: With eight generous slices, this dessert is sure to delight your family and friends.
Easy to customize: Swap in your favorite fruits or add a scoop of ice cream on top for an extra indulgence.
Dive into this wonderfully delightful dessert and share it with your loved ones today!
Cherry Dessert Pizza Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this delightful treat!
For the Dough
- Warm water – 1 cup (237 g); ensure it’s around 105°-110°F to properly activate the yeast.
- Granulated sugar – 2 tablespoons; this helps to feed the yeast for a great rise.
- Active dry yeast – 1 teaspoon; don’t skip this, as it’s essential for the dough’s texture.
- Vegetable oil – ⅓ cup (75 g), divided; use half for the dough and save the rest for greasing the pan.
- All-purpose flour – 2 ½ cups (312.5 g); this gives the crust its structure.
- Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon; enhances all the flavors in the dough.
For the Topping
- Unsalted butter – 3 tablespoons, melted; it gives richness to your dessert!
- Granulated sugar – 3 tablespoons; adds a sweet glaze to the crust.
- Cherry pie filling – 1 can (21 ounces); use homemade for an extra special touch or store-bought for convenience.
For the Crumble Topping
- All-purpose flour – 1 cup (125 g); this will help create that delightful crumble texture.
- Granulated sugar – ⅔ cup (133 g); adds sweetness to the crumble.
- Light brown sugar – 6 tablespoons; the molasses adds a deeper flavor.
- Kosher salt – ½ teaspoon; balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Unsalted butter – ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g), melted and cooled slightly; helps bind the crumble together.
For the Glaze
- Confectioners’ sugar – 1 cup (125 g); brings sweetness and a smooth finish to the dessert.
- Whole milk – 1 tablespoon; adjusts the glaze’s consistency to perfection.
- Almond extract – ¼ teaspoon; enhances the flavor profile of the Cherry Dessert Pizza.
Now that you have all the ingredients perfectly lined up, you’re just moments away from a lovely homemade dessert that your friends and family will rave about!
How to Make Cherry Dessert Pizza
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Combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let it rest for 5 minutes until the mixture is foamy, signaling that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
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Mix in half of the vegetable oil to the yeast mixture, saving the other half for greasing your pizza pan. This step helps ensure a lovely dough structure.
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Add the flour and kosher salt, stirring until the dough forms a soft, sticky consistency. Embrace that sticky texture; it’s a sign of a tender crust!
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Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover it. Allow it to rise for about 1 hour in a warm place, or until it has doubled in size like a fluffy cloud.
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Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) while you prepare your pizza pan by lining it with parchment paper. This ensures an easy release from the pan.
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Pour the remaining oil into the prepared pizza pan, then gently press the risen dough out to the edges. Create little dimples in the dough’s surface for extra texture.
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Bake the crust for 10 minutes until it’s lightly golden. You’ll catch a whiff of that heavenly bread aroma filling your kitchen!
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Mix together melted butter and granulated sugar for the topping in a small bowl. Stir well until all the sugar is nicely combined with the buttery goodness.
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Brush the warm crust with your butter and sugar mixture. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the crust—this will be the heart of your Cherry Dessert Pizza!
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Combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt in a medium bowl for the crumble topping. Slowly pour in the melted butter and stir until clumps form—your crumble awaits!
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Sprinkle the crumble mixture generously over the cherry pie filling, covering those delicious cherries all the way to the edges.
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Return the pizza to the oven and bake for 13-15 minutes. Watch closely until the crumble topping turns golden brown, creating a delightful contrast.
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Whisk together confectioners’ sugar, milk, and almond extract in a small bowl until you achieve a smooth, luscious glaze.
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Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm Cherry Dessert Pizza, letting it soak into all the nooks and crannies.
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Cool the pizza for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This wait allows all the flavors to meld beautifully!
Optional: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Dessert Pizza
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Cherry Dessert Pizza at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered loosely with foil or a clean kitchen towel to keep it fresh.
Fridge: If you want to extend its life, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to bring back the warmth.
Freezer: You can freeze the Cherry Dessert Pizza for up to 3 months. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag to protect against freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore its delightful texture.
Cherry Dessert Pizza Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful dessert!
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Fruit Swap: Use blueberries, peaches, or strawberries instead of cherries for a fresh fruit twist!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version. This swap keeps the pizza delicious without missing a beat.
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Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumble topping for added crunch and flavor.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the glazed pizza for a rich and indulgent finish. This contrast of flavors will make each bite heavenly!
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Spiced Crust: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, inviting flavor that pairs beautifully with the cherries.
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Vegan Option: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg instead of conventional eggs. This variation is just as delicious without any animal products!
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Cheesecake Layer: Spread a layer of cheesecake filling before adding the cherry pie filling for a creamy, decadent twist that will blow your guests away.
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Make it Mini: Create individual dessert pizzas using personal-sized pizza crusts, perfect for parties or gatherings! Each person can customize their own toppings.
What to Serve with Cherry Dessert Pizza?
Elevate your dessert game with delightful pairings that enhance the sweetness and texture of your Cherry Dessert Pizza.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over the warm pizza, adding a rich, cool contrast to each slice.
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Fresh Mint Leaves: A handful of bright green mint adds a refreshing touch that balances the sweetness of the cherries, making each bite more vibrant.
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Sweetened Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream drizzled on top adds a luxurious finish that complements the cherry filling flawlessly.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A rich chocolate drizzle offers a decadent touch, enhancing the dessert with an unexpected layers of flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Coffee or Espresso: A cup of rich, aromatic coffee or espresso enhances the dessert experience, providing a delightful bitterness that harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness.
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Lemon Sorbet: This refreshing sorbet cleanses the palate and offers a zesty counterpoint, making it a perfect match for the dessert’s sweetness.
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Almond Biscotti: Crunchy, nutty biscotti provide a satisfying texture contrast, perfect for dipping into the sweet cherry pizza.
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Sparkling Water with Citrus: Refreshing sparkling water infused with lemon or lime is a bubbly accompaniment that brightens the cherry flavors without overpowering them.
Expert Tips for Cherry Dessert Pizza
Dough Temperature Matters: Ensure your water is at the right temperature (105°-110°F) to activate the yeast properly—too hot can kill it.
Don’t Rush the Rise: Allow the dough to double in size; this ensures a light and fluffy crust that contrasts beautifully with the rich cherry filling.
Even Coverage: When spreading the cherry pie filling, aim for an even layer to ensure every slice has that delightful cherry flavor in your Cherry Dessert Pizza.
Watch the Crumble: Keep an eye on the crumble topping while baking; it should be beautifully golden brown, adding that perfect crunch.
Glaze Timing: Drizzle the glaze over the pizza while it’s warm to let it penetrate the dessert, enhancing the flavors with every bite!
Customize Freely: Feel free to swap in other fruits or add spices like cinnamon for a twist on your delightful Cherry Dessert Pizza!
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Dessert Pizza are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply ensure it’s tightly wrapped in plastic wrap after it has risen, then refrigerate. The crumble topping can also be made ahead—store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature, then press it into the pan before proceeding with the recipe as directed. This way, you’ll have a delicious dessert that tastes just as fresh, saving you time for those busy weeknights!
Cherry Dessert Pizza Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! For a homemade cherry filling, look for ripe, sweet cherries that are firm and vibrant in color. You want to avoid any cherries with dark spots all over or that feel mushy, as this indicates overripeness. If you’re using canned cherry pie filling, simply check the expiration date and choose the one with the least added sugars for a healthier option.
How should I store leftover Cherry Dessert Pizza?
Very simply! After enjoying your dessert, cover it loosely with foil or a clean kitchen towel and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer longer storage, transfer the leftover slices to an airtight container in the fridge, where they can stay fresh for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes if you like it warm, which enhances the flavors nicely.
Can I freeze Cherry Dessert Pizza?
Absolutely! You can freeze slices of Cherry Dessert Pizza for up to 3 months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or an airtight container. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps them tasting fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the slices overnight in the fridge, and then warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
It happens to the best of us! If your dough doesn’t rise, it might be due to the yeast being inactive. Make sure the water temperature is between 105°-110°F—too hot can kill the yeast. If it does not foam after 5 minutes, it’s best to start over with fresh yeast. Also, ensure you’re placing the dough in a warm, draft-free area to help it rise properly.
Is this Cherry Dessert Pizza suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Very much so! While traditional ingredients contain gluten, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just make sure the remaining ingredients, like baking powder or yeast, are gluten-free as well to avoid any cross-contamination.
Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?
Absolutely! The more, the merrier! This recipe is very versatile—feel free to swap in blueberries, peaches, or even mixed berries. Just ensure that the fruits you choose have a similar moisture content so that the crust remains properly baked and holds the toppings well. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite flavors!
Delight in Homemade Cherry Dessert Pizza Perfection
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let it rest for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Mix in half of the vegetable oil, saving the other half for greasing your pizza pan.
- Add the flour and kosher salt, stirring until the dough forms a soft, sticky consistency.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover it. Allow it to rise for about 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F while preparing the pizza pan with parchment paper.
- Pour the remaining oil into the prepared pizza pan, then gently press the risen dough out to the edges.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden.
- Mix together melted butter and granulated sugar for the topping in a small bowl.
- Brush the warm crust with the butter and sugar mixture. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the crust.
- Combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt for the crumble topping.
- Slowly pour in the melted butter and stir until clumps form. Sprinkle the crumble over the cherry filling.
- Return the pizza to the oven and bake for 13-15 minutes until the crumble is golden brown.
- Whisk together confectioners’ sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm Cherry Dessert Pizza.
- Cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.