If you have a sweet tooth and a craving for something both nostalgic and fun, the Cherry Pie Streusel Pizza Recipe will absolutely delight you. Imagine the familiar warmth and gooey goodness of cherry pie transformed into a vibrant, shareable pizza format topped with a buttery streusel and a drizzle of sweet vanilla icing. This recipe combines the best of both worlds, offering a simple yet impressive dessert guaranteed to light up any gathering or cozy night in. I can’t wait to walk you through this fun treat that feels like a hug in dessert form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cherry Pie Streusel Pizza Recipe relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully to provide the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Each element plays its part, from the tender, buttery pizza crust to the fruit-forward cherry pie filling and that irresistible streusel topping.
- Refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade dough): Provides a soft but crispy base that’s easy to work with and wonderfully flaky after baking.
- Unsalted butter (melted and softened): Adds rich flavor and moistness—melted butter buffs the crust, while softened butter blends into the streusel for that crumbly texture.
- Cherry pie filling: The star fruit component delivering tart-sweet juiciness in every bite.
- Granulated sugar: Offers sweetness and aids in creating the perfect streusel crumb.
- Brown sugar: Deepens the streusel flavor with a hint of molasses warmth.
- All-purpose flour: Binds the streusel ingredients and adds structure to those delightful crumbs.
- Powdered sugar: For the smooth icing that offers a touch of sweetness and shine on top.
- Milk: Helps create a creamy, pourable icing to finish.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the icing with a fragrant, classic note that pairs beautifully with the cherry topping.
How to Make Cherry Pie Streusel Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it inside while preheating for a super crispy crust that really elevates the texture. This step gets everything ready so your dough bakes perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Roll out your pizza dough into a 12-inch circle or rectangle to fit your baking sheet nicely. Lightly grease the baking sheet to avoid sticking and then brush the rolled-out dough with melted butter. This buttery brush helps create that golden, crispy edge we’re all dreaming about.
Step 3: Add the Cherry Filling
Spread the luscious cherry pie filling evenly across the dough, but be sure to leave a ½-inch border around the edges. This prevents the juices from spilling over and lets the crust bake up beautifully.
Step 4: Make the Streusel
Mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and softened butter in a small bowl until you get a crumbly, chunky mixture. Sprinkle this streusel topping generously over the cherry filling, giving each bite a deliciously crisp, buttery crunch.
Step 5: Bake
Transfer your assembled pizza to the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the crust turns a lovely golden brown and the streusel crisps up. This timing seals in all the flavors and textures just perfectly.
Step 6: Prepare the Icing
While the pizza is baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a smooth icing. This sweet glaze is the final touch that brings the whole Cherry Pie Streusel Pizza Recipe together in sheer harmony.
Step 7: Finish & Serve
Once your pizza comes out of the oven, allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. Then drizzle the vanilla icing over the top in a generous yet artistic pattern. Slice it up, serve warm, and prepare yourself for happy smiles all around.
How to Serve Cherry Pie Streusel Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
Consider adding fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar over the top for a pop of freshness and visual charm. Whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side also elevates the dessert experience to indulgent new heights.
Side Dishes
This Cherry Pie Streusel Pizza Recipe pairs beautifully with a simple cup of black coffee or a lightly brewed herbal tea, balancing the sweetness while accentuating the fruity notes. For a party, a light fruit salad can complement it well without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual squares on colorful plates with small forks for a party-friendly dessert. You could also cut it into bite-sized pieces and serve on a platter as a delightful finger food option, perfect for casual get-togethers or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep the streusel crisp and the dough fresh. If your kitchen is warmer, the fridge is a safe option but it may soften the crust slightly.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked assembled Cherry Pie Streusel Pizza Recipe by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This revives the crispiness of the crust and streusel much better than microwaving.
FAQs
Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated pizza dough?
Absolutely! Homemade dough works wonderfully and can add an extra personal touch, just make sure it’s rolled out to the right thickness and baked at the same temperature.
Is it necessary to use both granulated and brown sugar in the streusel?
Using both sugars balances sweetness and moisture, giving the streusel its signature crunch and richer flavor, but you can adjust based on your taste preferences.
Can I substitute the cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings?
For sure! Blueberry, apple, or mixed berry fillings work great and transform the dish while keeping the appealing concept intact.
What if I don’t have a pizza stone? Can I still make this recipe?
Definitely. A pizza stone is great for extra crispy crust, but a regular baking sheet works perfectly well if you grease it lightly and watch your bake time closely.
How thick should I roll out the pizza dough?
A thickness of about ¼-inch works best for a balance of crispy edges and soft, chewy center that supports all the toppings without becoming soggy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s nestled somewhere between classic cherry pie and playful pizza, this Cherry Pie Streusel Pizza Recipe will quickly become a favorite. It’s a fantastic way to bring smiles, savor juicy cherries, and enjoy buttery, crumbly streusel together in one fantastic bite. Give it a go—you might just find your new go-to sweet treat!
