When it comes to dessert, I often find myself at a crossroads. Do I want something creamy and rich, like cheesecake? Or maybe something fruity, perhaps with a bit of tartness to balance it all out?
Well, after a bit of pondering, I’ve come to appreciate the beauty of pairing a hearty meal with something sweet. Take a slice of savory pizza followed by a slice of the delectable Cherry Dessert Pizza from Pizza Hut.
The marriage of flavors is simply delightful. Who knew that pizza could go from savory to sweet so seamlessly?
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What Is Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza?
Picture this: a soft, warm pizza crust topped with a rich spread of cherry pie filling, all crowned with a delightful streusel. The sweetness of cherries, combined with the crunch of almonds and a drizzle of icing, gives this dish a unique flair. It’s more than just pizza; it’s a dessert that beckons you to indulge.
The Ingredients
Getting into the nitty-gritty, here’s what you need to craft this cherry delight:
- For the Pizza:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 21-ounce can of sweet cherry pie filling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Streusel Topping:
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons sliced almonds
- For the Icing Drizzle:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
How to Make Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza?
Let’s dive into the process. This is where the magic happens, transforming all these ingredients into a mouth-watering dessert pizza.
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the yeast with warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This shows that the yeast is alive and kicking!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. This mix will help create a well-rounded dough.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Once the yeast is foamy, mix it into the flour mixture along with the beaten egg and melted butter. Stir until it begins to come together.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. This step develops the gluten, giving your crust the right texture.
Step 5: Let It Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—about an hour. Patience is key here!
Step 6: Prepare the Streusel
While waiting for the dough, mix the streusel ingredients in a bowl until crumbly. The aroma will have you excited to continue.
Step 7: Roll Out the Dough
After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it into a pizza shape of your liking. Transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 8: Assemble Your Pizza
Spread the cherry pie filling over the dough evenly. Top it with your streusel mixture, and sprinkle the sliced almonds on top.
Step 9: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on it because we don’t want burnt edges!
Step 10: Icing Time
While the pizza cools, mix the powdered sugar and heavy cream to create a pourable icing. Drizzle it over the warm dessert pizza.
Notes: Tips for Success
- Use warm water: Too hot will kill the yeast; too cold won’t activate it. Aim for lukewarm.
- Let the dough rise in a warm area: A cozy spot helps the yeast work its magic.
- Don’t skip the kneading: This step develops the texture of your crust.
- Feel free to add more toppings: A little extra cherry filling is never a bad idea!
- Patience: Let the pizza cool slightly before drizzling with icing for that perfect look.
Storage Tips
After enjoying your cherry pizza, you may have some leftovers. Here are some quick storage tips:
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain that warm, comforting texture.
- Freeze for longer storage: Keep it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to let it thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with Vanilla Ice Cream: Serves as a delightful contrast to the warm pizza. Just imagine taking a bite of cherry pizza paired with a scoop of creamy vanilla. Heaven!
- Pair with a Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit adds a refreshing crunch. The natural sweetness of fruits like strawberries and blueberries complements the cherry flavor beautifully.
- Accompany with a Cup of Coffee: Enjoying a slice of dessert pizza with coffee is like having a little slice of Italy at home. The bitter notes of the coffee balance the sweetness.
- Serve Alongside Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds richness and decadence to this dessert. It’s like dressing up your pizza for a special occasion!
- Garnish with Fresh Mint Leaves: They add a splash of color and a refreshing finish. Plus, mint and cherry is a combination that never goes out of style.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza?
Sometimes, you need to improvise! Here are some substitutes you can consider:
- Peach Pie Filling: This works wonderfully if cherries aren’t your thing. The juicy peaches provide a similar sweetness and texture.
- Almond Extract for Vanilla: If you want to alter the flavor slightly, almond extract can give a lovely twist to the classic vanilla.
- Gluten-Free Flour: For those with gluten sensitivity, this is a great swap. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 conversion blend.
- Coconut Oil in Place of Butter: Create a dairy-free option without sacrificing the rich flavor. Melted coconut oil brings its unique taste too.
- Greek Yogurt Instead of Cream in Icing: For a tangy and healthier drizzle, mix powdered sugar with Greek yogurt for a creamy consistency.
Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza Recipe
Equipment
- Small bowl
- Large bowl
Ingredients
For the Pizza:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 21- ounce can of sweet cherry pie filling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Streusel Topping:
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup ½ stick unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons sliced almonds
For the Icing Drizzle:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
- Let’s dive into the process. This is where the magic happens, transforming all these ingredients into a mouth-watering dessert pizza.
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the yeast with warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This shows that the yeast is alive and kicking!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. This mix will help create a well-rounded dough.
Step 3: Combine Everything
- Once the yeast is foamy, mix it into the flour mixture along with the beaten egg and melted butter. Stir until it begins to come together.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. This step develops the gluten, giving your crust the right texture.
Step 5: Let It Rise
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—about an hour. Patience is key here!
Step 6: Prepare the Streusel
- While waiting for the dough, mix the streusel ingredients in a bowl until crumbly. The aroma will have you excited to continue.
Step 7: Roll Out the Dough
- After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it into a pizza shape of your liking. Transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 8: Assemble Your Pizza
- Spread the cherry pie filling over the dough evenly. Top it with your streusel mixture, and sprinkle the sliced almonds on top.
Step 9: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on it because we don’t want burnt edges!
Step 10: Icing Time
- While the pizza cools, mix the powdered sugar and heavy cream to create a pourable icing. Drizzle it over the warm dessert pizza.
Notes
- Use warm water: Too hot will kill the yeast; too cold won’t activate it. Aim for lukewarm.
- Let the dough rise in a warm area: A cozy spot helps the yeast work its magic.
- Don’t skip the kneading: This step develops the texture of your crust.
- Feel free to add more toppings: A little extra cherry filling is never a bad idea!
- Patience: Let the pizza cool slightly before drizzling with icing for that perfect look.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dessert pizza ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance. After it rises, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just let it come to room temperature before continuing.
2. Is it okay to use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Yes, fresh cherries can be a delightful alternative. Just ensure you sweeten them to taste and use a bit of cornstarch to thicken the mixture.
3. What can I use if I don’t have sliced almonds?
Chopped walnuts or pecans can offer a different texture and flavor. The key is to maintain that satisfying crunch.
4. Can I prepare the streusel topping in advance?
For sure! You can keep it in the fridge in an airtight container for a day or two before using it.
5. How can I make the icing more flavorful?
Adding a splash of almond extract or lemon juice can elevate the icing’s flavor. You can experiment to find your perfect balance!
Conclusion
The Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza is more than just a sweet treat.
It’s a delightful culinary experience that combines the best of textures and flavors, all in a convenient, shareable form. Making this pizza at home places you in the chef’s seat, allowing for creativity and personal twists.
With the right ingredients and a little patience, you can create a dessert that rivals anything from your local pizza shop. So gather your essentials, invite some friends over, and let the cherry-themed fun begin! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
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Hi! I'm Mary Lee. I love helping people eat yummy and healthy food. I live in Oregon. Cooking is my happy place. Let's make tasty dishes together!