Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza Recipe
Few desserts bring back memories quite like a warm slice of Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza after sharing a family pizza night. The soft, golden crust, sweet cherry topping, buttery streusel, and drizzle of icing create a comforting combination that feels both indulgent and familiar. It is the kind of dessert that turns an ordinary meal into a special occasion and leaves everyone reaching for one more slice.
This Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza Recipe recreates that beloved restaurant favorite with simple ingredients and homemade charm. While inspired by the original dessert, this copycat recipe lets you enjoy the same fruity, buttery flavors fresh from your own oven. Every bite captures the sweetness, texture, and nostalgic appeal of the classic, making it perfect for family gatherings, celebrations, or whenever you're craving a taste of Pizza Hut at home.
What Is Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza?
The Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza is a sweet take on a classic pizza, featuring a soft, golden crust layered with luscious cherry pie filling, a buttery streusel topping, toasted sliced almonds, and a generous drizzle of sweet icing. It was the perfect way to finish a pizza night, offering a comforting combination of warm baked dough, juicy cherries, and crumbly sweetness that many people still remember fondly.
This Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza Recipe is a homemade copycat that captures the nostalgic flavors of the original dessert using simple, easy-to-find ingredients. While it isn't the exact restaurant recipe, it recreates the same bakery-style texture and fruity, buttery topping that made the Pizza Hut favorite so memorable. It's an easy way to bring back a beloved dessert and enjoy it fresh from your own oven.
How Does Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza Taste?
The Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza is the kind of dessert that makes you slow down and savor every bite. The crust is soft and lightly chewy with golden, buttery edges, while the cherry filling is sweet with just enough tartness to keep it from feeling overly rich. The buttery streusel adds a delicate crunch, the toasted almonds bring a subtle nutty flavor, and the icing ties everything together with a smooth, sweet finish. Every layer creates a comforting balance of textures and flavors that feels both familiar and indulgent.
This Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza Recipe recreates that nostalgic experience with homemade ingredients, delivering the same warm, bakery-style dessert fresh from your own oven. Although it's a copycat rather than the original restaurant version, it captures everything that made the classic so memorable. Served warm, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it brings back the simple joy of ending pizza night with a sweet slice shared around the table.
You will also like the following Dessert recipes!
- Pizza Hut Dessert Pizza Recipe
- Pizza Hut Hershey's Chocolate Dunkers Recipe (Easy Copycat)
- Pizza Hut Cinnamon Sticks Recipe
The Ingredients
For the Pizza
- 2 cups all-purpose flour - Forms the soft, tender base of the dessert pizza crust.
- 1 packet (2¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast - Helps the dough rise for a light and fluffy texture.
- ¾ cup whole milk - Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter - Gives the crust a buttery flavor and soft crumb.
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten - Adds structure and helps create a tender dough.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt - Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- 2 tablespoons white sugar - Feeds the yeast and lightly sweetens the dough.
- 1 (21-ounce) can sweet cherry pie filling - Creates the signature fruity topping with juicy cherries.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Adds warm, sweet flavor to complement the cherries.
For the Streusel Topping
- 6 tablespoons sugar - Sweetens the buttery streusel topping.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour - Gives the streusel its crumbly texture.
- ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter, cubed - Creates a rich, buttery crumble.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar - Adds a hint of caramel-like sweetness.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon - Brings a warm spice that pairs beautifully with cherries.
- 3 tablespoons sliced almonds - Adds a light crunch and nutty flavor.
For the Icing Drizzle
- 1 cup powdered sugar - Forms the smooth, sweet icing.
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream - Creates a creamy, pourable icing with a rich finish.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet or pizza pan
- Parchment paper
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Cooling rack
- Spoon or piping bag for icing drizzle
How to Make a Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza?
- 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! - Mix the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. This mix will help create a well-rounded dough. - 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. - 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. - 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! - 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. - 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 or pizza pan lined with parchment paper. - 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. - 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! - Icing Time
While the pizza cools, mix the powdered sugar and heavy cream to create a pourable icing. Drizzle it over the warm cherry dessert pizza.
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 it with a Cup of Coffee: Enjoying a slice of cherry 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 are 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.
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.
Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza Recipe
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet or pizza pan
- Parchment paper
- pastry cutter or fork
- cooling rack
- Spoon or piping bag for icing drizzle
Ingredients
For the Pizza:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast 2 ¼ teaspoons
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 21 ounces 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
- Activate the Yeast: Warm the milk until lukewarm. Stir in the yeast and a pinch of the sugar. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let It Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Streusel: In a small bowl, combine the sugar, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or fork to mix until crumbly, then stir in the sliced almonds.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet or pizza pan with parchment paper.
- Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a 12-inch round. Transfer it to the prepared baking sheet or pizza pan.
- Add the Toppings: Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the streusel mixture evenly over the cherries.
- Bake: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the streusel is lightly toasted.
- Make the Icing: Whisk together the powdered sugar and heavy cream until smooth and pourable.
- Finish and Serve: Let the dessert pizza cool for 10 minutes, then drizzle the icing over the top. Slice and serve warm.
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
Can I make this cherry 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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Can I use homemade cherry pie filling for this recipe?
Yes! Homemade cherry pie filling works wonderfully and lets you control the sweetness. Just make sure it's thick enough so it doesn't make the crust soggy while baking.
Can I serve Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza cold?
You can, but it's best enjoyed warm. Warming it slightly before serving softens the crust and makes the cherry filling and icing even more delicious.
Why did Pizza Hut stop selling Cherry Dessert Pizza?
Pizza Hut has changed its dessert menu over the years, and many locations no longer offer Cherry Dessert Pizza. This homemade copycat recipe lets you recreate the nostalgic favorite with a soft crust, sweet cherry filling, buttery streusel, and icing.
Conclusion
Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza is the perfect combination of soft crust, sweet cherry filling, buttery streusel, and creamy icing. This easy copycat recipe brings back one of Pizza Hut's most nostalgic desserts using simple ingredients you can make at home. Serve it warm for a treat that's sure to disappear fast.
That looks awesome, I can’t wait to try this one. It will be a great one to share at after church fellowship! Thank you!
That sounds amazing, I love that idea! Hope it turns out great for your church fellowship. Let me know how everyone likes it