Apple Dessert Pizza Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 8 servings. Adjust quantities as needed, but follow cooking steps exactly for best results.

• Flour for dusting
• 1 (16.5-18 oz) package refrigerated sugar cookie dough
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 medium apples, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest, plus extra for garnish
• 1 (8 oz) package mascarpone cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, or more as needed
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios or nuts of choice, toasted

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). Line a 12-inch pizza pan with foil or parchment paper and dust lightly with flour.
2. Break or slice the cookie dough into pieces and arrange them on the prepared pan. Allow to soften for 5-10 minutes, then press with your fingers to form an even crust, leaving 1 inch from the edges. Build up the edges slightly to create a 1/2-inch border.
3. Bake the crust until golden brown, about 18-20 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, then slide onto a serving platter.
4. While the crust cools, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add apples and cranberries, cooking gently until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the lemon zest and transfer the mixture to a bowl to cool completely.
5. In a small bowl, beat together mascarpone and maple syrup with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Spread the mascarpone evenly over the cooled cookie crust.
6. Top the mascarpone layer with the cooled apple and cranberry mixture.
7. Whisk together powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon lemon juice, adding more lemon juice as needed to achieve a pourable consistency. Drizzle over the pizza.
8. Sprinkle toasted pistachios on top and garnish with extra lemon zest. Serve within 1 hour for best flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 4850
• Total Fat: 221g (284%)
• Saturated Fat: 61g (305%)
• Cholesterol: 158mg (53%)
• Sodium: 3605mg (157%)
• Total Carbohydrates: 673g (245%)
• Dietary Fiber: 11g (40%)
• Total Sugars: 409g
• Protein: 44g (89%)
• Vitamin C: 3mg (3%)
• Calcium: 118mg (9%)
• Iron: 20mg (110%)
• Potassium: 1679mg (36%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Nutrient information may vary depending on ingredients and preparation methods. Consult a doctor or dietitian if following a restrictive diet.

The Story Behind Apple Dessert Pizza

Apple dessert pizza is a modern take on traditional fruit-based desserts, combining the familiar appeal of sweet, spiced apples with the fun, shareable format of pizza. While the exact origin is difficult to pinpoint, its roots can be traced back to American dessert innovation in the late 20th century, when home bakers began experimenting with cookie crusts, mascarpone spreads, and seasonal fruit toppings. The dessert pizza concept evolved as a way to make desserts more interactive and visually striking, perfect for parties and gatherings.

Regional Characteristics

In the United States, apple dessert pizza often reflects regional apple-growing areas, such as New York, Washington, and Michigan. Northern states tend to favor tart apple varieties like Granny Smith, paired with dried cranberries or nuts for a balance of flavors and textures. In the South, sweeter apple varieties and a heavier use of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg are common, creating a richer, dessert-like profile. This adaptability makes apple dessert pizza a versatile treat that can reflect local tastes and seasonal produce.

Distinguishing Features from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional apple pies or tarts, apple dessert pizza uses a cookie-based crust instead of a pastry crust, giving it a chewy, sweet foundation. The combination of a creamy mascarpone-lemon spread, lightly sauted apples, and additional toppings like pistachios or cranberries sets it apart from standard fruit pizzas, which often use uncooked fruit and a cream cheese base. This dessert pizza strikes a balance between a baked dessert and a fresh, visually appealing fruit pizza, offering both warmth and texture in every bite.

Where Its Typically Served

Apple dessert pizza is a popular choice for social gatherings, seasonal parties, and holiday celebrations. It is often served at brunches, potlucks, and family dinners where sharing is encouraged. Due to its visually striking presentation, it is also favored in restaurants and cafes during fall and winter months. Some bakeries even feature it as a centerpiece dessert for autumn-themed menus, emphasizing its versatility as both a casual and festive treat.

Interesting Facts

• The concept of dessert pizza originated from Italian-style flatbreads, but evolved uniquely in America to use cookie dough instead of traditional dough.
• Using mascarpone instead of cream cheese provides a lighter, less tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples and maple syrup.
• The dessert is highly customizable: toppings can include anything from freeze-dried apples to chocolate chips, allowing endless variations.
• Apple dessert pizza has gained popularity on social media for its photogenic quality and ease of portioning, making it ideal for parties and gatherings.
• Despite being called a pizza, it is typically cut into wedges and eaten with a fork, highlighting its dessert identity rather than a savory main dish.

FAQ about Apple Dessert Pizza Recipe