Fruit Pizza

When I was getting married one of my bridal showers was a kitchen-themed shower.  On that day my mother in law gave me a little book of recipes that she had complied herself.  Some were old recipes from her own mother, some were of her kids' favorites and some were relatively new recipes that she had lots of positive comments on the first time she made them.  She photocopied the orginal recipe to preserve others' handwriting and such.  It was a very thoughtful and heartfelt gift. 

I use those recipes often.  There are still some that I haven't tried at all.  I suppose I should make it a goal to try each one.  But the ones I've tried have all been successes!

This recipe is one that my sister especially liked the first time that I made it.  Since today is her birthday and she happens to be with us this morning (a rare treat!!!) I decided to make it for her.  And I even remembered to take a picture.  This dessert can be as pretty as you have time to make it. 

Fruit Pizza

Crust -
1/4 c butter or magarine, softened
1/2 c sugar
Cream together.  Add:
1 egg
1/2 t vanilla
Blend well.  Add:
1 1/4 c flour
1/4 t baking soda
1/4 t baking powder
1/4 t salt
Mix well. Cover and chill for 30 minutes, until easy to handle. Press dough into a greased baking sheet or 12-14 in round pizza pan.  Bake at 350 degrees for 12-14 minutes, until golden brown.  Cool completely.

Cream Cheese Mixture -
4 oz softened cream cheese
1/4 c powdered sugar
Cream together until smooth. Add:
1 c whipped topping
Blend together.  Spread over cooled crust.

Suggested Fruit Toppings -
1 firm banana
1 c sliced strawberries
8 oz can mandarin oranges, drained
2 kiwi, peeled and sliced
1/3 c fresh blueberries
Arranged as desired.

Glaze-
1/4c suager
1/4 c water
1/4 c orange juice
2 t cornstarch
Bring to a boil in saucepan, stirring constantly.  Boil 2 minutes or until thickened.  Cool to room temp (about 30 minutes).  Brush over fruit.  Store in fridge.