**Meta Title:** Indulge in Homemade Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza
**Meta Description:** Make your own Pizza Hut cherry dessert pizza at home! Enjoy this sweet, gooey treat with our step-by-step recipe perfect for family gatherings.
You know that feeling when you’re curled up on the couch, craving something sweet yet slightly indulgent? Perhaps you’ve ordered that decadent cherry dessert pizza from Pizza Hut more times than you’d like to admit—it’s truly a guilty pleasure. But what if I told you that you could recreate this delightful treat in the comfort of your own kitchen? That’s right! With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you can serve up a homemade version of Pizza Hut’s cherry dessert pizza that’s every bit as mouthwatering.
Today, I’m excited to take you through the many wonderful layers of this beloved dessert. You’ll not only learn how to bake this fantastic pizza, but also understand the bits and bobs that make it so special—the buttery crust, the luscious cream cheese frosting, and, of course, the sweet-tart cherry filling. Let’s get started and discover the joy of making a dessert that will have everyone begging for seconds!
What is Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza?
The Pizza Hut cherry dessert pizza is a delicious fusion of classic pizza and dessert, featuring a soft, doughy base topped with a creamy, sweet frosting and a sweet cherry pie filling. Originally a limited-time offer, this treat quickly gained a fan base thanks to its unique combination of flavors and textures.
The crust is typically enriched with butter, making it slightly crispy on the outside and pillowy-soft inside. The cream cheese topping adds a lovely tang, playing beautifully against the sweet, sticky cherry filling. Picture this: the aroma of freshly baked dough wafting through your home, tantalizing your tastebuds with its promise of sweetness, while the glistening red cherries beckon you to dig in. It’s no wonder people adore this dessert pizza!
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Dessert Pizza
There are so many reasons to whip up this delectable cherry dessert pizza in your kitchen! First and foremost, it’s a breeze to make. With minimal prep time and a straightforward baking process, even novice bakers can get in on the fun. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even just an indulgent evening treat after a long day.
Not only is it simple, but it’s also an incredibly versatile dessert. Switch up the fruit filling to suit your taste—whether you’re a fan of blueberries, apples, or even a rich chocolate spread, the world is your oyster! Plus, since you’re making it at home, you have the freedom to customize the sweetness to your liking.
Additionally, the cherry dessert pizza is budget-friendly. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, meaning you won’t break the bank. With its delightful balance of flavors, creamy texture, and warm, comforting crust, how could you resist this treat?
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this tempting cherry dessert pizza, you’ll need the following ingredients:
1. **Pizza Dough**: You’ll need about 1 pound of store-bought or homemade pizza dough for a delightful, fluffy crust. If you’re feeling adventurous, making your own dough can add an extra touch of love!
2. **Butter**: 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted. This will enrich the crust and contribute to that irresistible gooeyness.
3. **Cream Cheese**: 8 ounces of softened cream cheese provides the creamy layer with a subtle tang that offsets the sweetness perfectly.
4. **Powdered Sugar**: About 1 cup of powdered sugar gives the cream cheese frosting its sweet character. Feel free to adjust this to your preferred sweetness level.
5. **Vanilla Extract**: A teaspoon of vanilla extract enhances the frosting’s flavor. Use pure vanilla for the best results.
6. **Cherry Pie Filling**: A 21-ounce can of cherry pie filling adds that signature sweet-tart cherry flavor. You can also substitute with fresh cherries if they are in season.
7. **Ground Cinnamon**: A pinch—perhaps ½ teaspoon—of ground cinnamon can be added to the dough for extra warmth and flavor.
8. **Optional Toppings**: Consider adding whipped cream for serving, or even drizzle warm chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
When selecting your ingredients, opt for high-quality products where possible. Fresh cherries in season can make a world of difference in flavor, and using unsalted butter will allow you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
How to Make Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza
Now let’s dive into the step-by-step process to make this divine dessert pizza:
1. **Prepare the Dough**: If using store-bought dough, allow it to come to room temperature according to package instructions, usually around 30 minutes. If you’re making dough from scratch, make sure to let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour, then punch it down.
2. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your dessert pizza bakes evenly and develops that lovely golden-brown crust.
3. **Roll Out the Dough**: On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a circle approximately 12 inches in diameter. Transfer it to a greased pizza pan or baking sheet. Use a fork to pierce the surface in multiple places; this will prevent air bubbles from forming while it bakes.
4. **Add Butter and Cinnamon**: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the ground cinnamon if using. Brush this mixture over the surface of the rolled-out pizza dough, ensuring an even coating for an added hint of flavor.
5. **Bake the Dough**: Bake the dough in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until it’s golden-brown and fully baked. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s puffed up and slightly firm to the touch. Allow it to cool on a wire rack while you prepare the frosting and filling.
6. **Make the Cream Cheese Frosting**: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy.
7. **Spread the Frosting**: Once the crust has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula. The creamy white layer should be generous but not overly thick—leave a small border around the edges for a beautiful presentation.
8. **Top with Cherry Filling**: Spoon the cherry pie filling on top of the cream cheese frosting. Distribute it evenly, allowing some of the cherries to cascade onto the frosting beautifully.
9. **Bake Again**: For an extra touch of warmth, pop the dessert pizza back into the oven for 5 minutes. This step will slightly soften the cherries and let the flavors meld together deliciously.
10. **Slice and Serve**: After baking, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into wedges. Serve warm or at room temperature, and wow your audience with each bite of this delightful dessert.
Tips, Tricks & Variations
To make your cherry dessert pizza even more delicious and unique, here are some expert tips and fun variations:
1. **Storage**: If you have leftovers (though I doubt it), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy the pizza cold or warm it in the microwave for a few seconds.
2. **Freezing**: You can also freeze the dessert pizza before adding the frosting and cherry topping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then add the frosting and topping before serving.
3. **Creative Toppings**: Consider adding nuts for a delightful crunch. Chopped walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top can elevate the texture and flavor.
4. **Gluten-Free Option**: If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, substitute the pizza dough with a gluten-free option. There are many great pre-made gluten-free doughs available now!
5. **Fruit Variations**: Feeling adventurous? Swap out the cherry pie filling for blueberry, strawberry, or even a combination of berries for a berry medley flavor!
What to Serve With Pizza Hut Cherry Dessert Pizza
To enhance your dining experience, pair the cherry dessert pizza with complementary sides or drinks. Here are a few suggestions:
– **Ice Cream**: A scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream served alongside adds a delightful creaminess and contrasts beautifully with the warm pizza.
– **Whipped Cream**: Light, fluffy whipped cream can be dolloped on top for an extra layer of sweetness. Try flavored whipped cream like almond or vanilla for added flair!
– **Coffee or Tea**: A warm cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea can balance the richness of the dessert, making it the perfect ending to your meal.
– **Fresh Fruit Salad**: A light fruit salad can serve as a refreshing side and cut through the sweetness of the dessert pizza.
Nutrition & Health Benefits
While this cherry dessert pizza is indulgent, it does offer some nutrition benefits as well! Cherries, for example, are loaded with antioxidants and can provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
In terms of calories, a slice of this dessert pizza comes in around 200-250 calories, depending on portion sizes and the quantity of frosting. By making it at home, you can control the sugar and fat content, so feel free to adjust ingredients according to your dietary needs.
For ongoing nutrition insights, you can explore resources like [Healthline](https://www.healthline.com) or the USDA FoodData Central .
Frequently Asked Questions
**1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?**
Absolutely! Fresh cherries will give you a terrific flavor and texture. If using fresh cherries, pit and slice them, and then cook them on low heat with a bit of sugar until softened—a homemade cherry filling!
**2. How can I make the dough from scratch?**
To make your pizza dough from scratch, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 packet of instant yeast, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ¾ cup of warm water. Knead until smooth, then let rise for about an hour before rolling out.
**3. Can I make this in advance?**
Yes, you can prepare the pizza dough and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling out.
**4. What’s the best way to store leftovers?**
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. For the best flavor, consume them within three days. You can also gently warm them in the microwave before serving.
**5. Can I make a dairy-free version?**
Certainly! You can substitute the cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese and use plant-based butter for the crust. Just check the labels to ensure all ingredients are dairy-free.
In conclusion, making your own homemade Pizza Hut cherry dessert pizza is not only possible, but it’s also incredibly fun and rewarding! The tempting combination of a crispy yet soft dough topped with creamy frosting and luscious cherry filling will turn any gathering into a special occasion. So why wait? Dive into this yummy adventure tonight and treat your loved ones to a dessert that is sure to impress. If you loved this recipe, please leave a comment or tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your creations! Happy baking!
