Cherry Dessert Pizza

I am a cherry dessert pizza convert. Look, I have nothing against cherry pie or cherry cheesecake, but let’s be real—pie can be a little high-maintenance when it comes to crimping the butter pie crust and hoping it doesn’t crack. And cheesecake can be, well… a diva (I’m talking about you, water baths).

That’s why I make cherry pizza instead. It gives you all the good stuff without the drama: a buttery crust, creamy filling and a tart cherry topping. Plus, it’s bigger, easier to slice and way more fun to serve. People see it and go, “Wait… that’s a thing?” and then three bites later they’re asking for the recipe. Honestly, it’s just a smarter way to dessert—less fuss and more wow. Plus, no pies or cheesecakes were harmed in the making of it!

Cherry Dessert Pizza Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Butter
• Shortening
• Water
• Cream cheese
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Chopped pecans
• Fresh or frozen tart cherries (or canned tart cherries)
• Cornstarch
• Almond extract
• Red food coloring
• Whipped cream (optional)
• Fresh mint (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Make the crust

In a large bowl, mix the flour and baking powder, then cut in the cold butter and shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add water, tossing the dough with a fork until a ball forms.

Step 2: Roll and bake the crust

Roll out the dough into a 14-inch circle and transfer it to an ungreased 12-inch pizza pan. Flute the edges to form a rim and prick the bottom of the crust with a fork. Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the cream cheese filling

Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs and vanilla, then fold in the chopped pecans. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the baked crust.

Step 4: Bake the filling

Return the pizza to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes. Once done, allow it to cool completely.

Step 5: Cook the cherry topping

Drain the canned cherries, reserving 1/3 cup of the juice and set aside. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and cornstarch, then stir in the reserved cherry juice until the mixture is smooth. Add the cherries and cook over medium heat, stirring, until the mixture comes to a boil. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes, then remove it from the heat.

Step 6: Finish the cherry topping

Stir the butter, almond extract and red food coloring into the cherry mixture.

Let it cool to room temperature before spreading it over the cream cheese layer on the crust.

Garnish with whipped cream and fresh mint if desired.

How to Store Cherry Dessert Pizza

To store cherry pizza, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to three days. If you’d like to make it ahead, you can bake and cool the crust and cream cheese layer, then add the cherry topping just before serving. Freezing isn’t recommended because the cream cheese layer and cherry topping may get watery and lose their texture.

Cherry Dessert Pizza Tips

Can I use canned cherry pie filling instead of making my own topping?

Yes, you can use canned cherry pie filling if you’re short on time. It won’t have quite the same flavor as the fresh homemade cherry pie filling, but it’s still delicious and convenient. Plus, there are ways to make canned cherry pie filling taste homemade, such as adding a dash of cinnamon or a little fresh lemon juice. Either way, if you have any left over, use it in another delicious recipe with cherry pie filling next time you’re craving a cherry dessert.

Do I need to flute the crust edges?

Fluting the crust edges helps keep the filling contained and gives the cherry pizza a more polished, classic look. If you prefer, you can simply fold the edges over slightly without fluting, or if you have some time and want a creative challenge, try a decorative pie crust edge.

What’s the best way to serve cherry dessert pizza?

Cherry pizza is best served chilled so the cream cheese layer stays firm and the topping glossy. Slice it like a traditional pizza and add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprig of mint for a finishing touch. Thirsty? A Rob Roy cocktail or a shot of espresso pairs perfectly with all things cherries.