This Apple Dessert Pizza is a crowd-pleaser with its soft sugar cookie crust, sweet apple pie topping, and a buttery crumble topping. It’s perfect for holidays, parties, or whenever you need a comforting dessert! Here’s a more detailed version of the recipe:
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 2 rolls of refrigerated sugar cookie dough (or make your own from scratch)
For the Apple Topping:
- 2 cans (21 oz each) of apple pie filling
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor in the filling)
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- Âľ cup packed brown sugar
- â…“ cup granulated sugar
- ÂĽ teaspoon salt
- ÂĽ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 ½ sticks (12 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
Optional Garnish:
- Additional cinnamon for sprinkling
- Caramel drizzle
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a pizza pan (for a traditional round dessert pizza) or a 9Ă—13-inch baking dish if you prefer a rectangular shape.
2. Prepare the Crust
- Spread the sugar cookie dough evenly across the pan or dish, pressing it to the edges to form a flat base.
- Bake the cookie dough for about 10 minutes to partially cook it (par-bake). This helps prevent the crust from becoming soggy once the toppings are added.
3. Prepare the Apple Topping
- Empty the cans of apple pie filling into a large bowl.
- Using a knife or kitchen scissors, chop the apples into smaller pieces for easier spreading and eating.
- If desired, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of cinnamon into the filling for extra warmth and flavor.
4. Assemble the Pizza
- Spread the apple pie filling evenly over the par-baked sugar cookie crust. Set aside.
5. Make the Crumble Topping
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add the softened butter and mix with a fork, pastry cutter, or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
6. Add the Crumble
- Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple pie filling. Make sure to cover it completely for a beautiful, textured finish.
7. Bake the Dessert Pizza
- Bake the assembled dessert in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the crumble topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.
- Check halfway through; if the topping is browning too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil.
8. Cool and Serve
- Allow the Apple Dessert Pizza to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set.
- Sprinkle additional cinnamon on top, if desired.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with a drizzle of caramel and a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to enjoy it warm.
Make It Your Own
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the crumble for added crunch.
- Try Other Fillings: Substitute the apple pie filling with cherry, blueberry, or peach for a fun variation.
- Homemade Pie Filling: Make your own apple pie filling by sautéing diced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and a bit of cornstarch for a fresh, homemade flavor.
This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious—perfect for potlucks, dessert tables, or just a cozy family night in. 🍏🍪