FRUIT PIZZA COOKIES

 Fruit pizza cookies are a fun and colorful twist on classic fruit pizza, combining the deliciousness of cookies with a fresh fruit topping. Here’s a simple recipe to make these delightful treats:

### **Fruit Pizza Cookies**

#### **Ingredients:**

**For the Cookies:**

- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

- 1 cup granulated sugar

- 1 large egg

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

**For the Frosting:**

- 1 cup cream cheese, softened

- 1/2 cup powdered sugar

- 1/4 cup granulated sugar

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

**For the Topping:**

- Fresh fruit (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, mandarin oranges, raspberries)

- Mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

#### **Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Cookies:**

   1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

   2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

   3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

   4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

   5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

   6. Scoop tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of the spoon or your hand.

   7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.

2. **Prepare the Frosting:**

   1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.

   2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and granulated sugar, beating until fully incorporated and smooth.

   3. Mix in the vanilla extract.

3. **Assemble the Fruit Pizza Cookies:**

   1. Once the cookies have cooled, spread a layer of the cream cheese frosting on each cookie.

   2. Arrange slices or pieces of fresh fruit on top of the frosting.

   3. Garnish with mint leaves if desired.

4. **Serve and Enjoy:**

   1. Serve the fruit pizza cookies immediately, or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

These cookies are a great way to enjoy fresh fruit in a fun, colorful way, and they’re perfect for parties, gatherings, or a special treat. Enjoy!