Taffy Apple Pizza
Description
This Taffy Apple Pizza is a delightful twist on classic dessert pizzas, combining the nostalgic flavors of taffy apples with a soft, buttery cookie base. The recipe features a simple sugar cookie dough crust that bakes to a light golden brown, providing the perfect foundation for a rich, smooth cream cheese and peanut butter frosting. Fresh Granny Smith apples are thinly sliced and arranged over the frosting, offering a crisp, tart contrast to the sweet spread. A drizzle of warm caramel and a sprinkle of cinnamon and chopped nuts complete the dish, creating a balance of textures and flavors. This dessert is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or as a special treat after dinner. Its easy to assemble and allows for creative variations with different toppings or frostings. Serve it warm or at room temperature for the best experience.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 375F (190C).
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Remove the sugar cookie dough from the packaging. If the recipe calls for adjusting the dough size, reserve any excess dough for another use.
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Sprinkle flour onto a clean work surface. Place the dough on the floured surface and knead gently for a few seconds to prevent sticking.
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Roll or press the dough into a 14-inch circle. Transfer the dough to a 15-inch baking stone or a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Bake the cookie crust for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
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Remove the cookie from the oven and let it cool on the stone or sheet for 10 minutes.
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Loosen the cookie from the baking surface and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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While the cookie cools, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, peanut butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
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Beat the mixture with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy.
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Peel, core, and thinly slice the Granny Smith apples.
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Dip the apple slices briefly into the lemon-lime soda to prevent browning. Arrange the slices in a single layer over the cooled cookie.
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Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the apple slices.
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Sprinkle the ground cinnamon lightly over the frosting.
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Warm the caramel topping slightly if necessary, then drizzle it over the pizza.
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Sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the caramel.
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Cut the pizza into slices and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 2863.9kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 75.6g117%
- Saturated Fat 43.5g218%
- Cholesterol 174.0mg58%
- Sodium 727.1mg31%
- Total Carbohydrate 547.5g183%
- Dietary Fiber 1.4g6%
- Sugars 534.5g
- Protein 16.8g34%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The crust may soften slightly upon refrigeration.
Ingredient Substitutions: You can use other apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji, but Granny Smith provides the best tart contrast. For a nut-free version, omit the peanuts or use sunflower seeds.
Tips: Ensure the cookie crust is completely cool before adding the frosting to prevent the cream cheese from melting. Dip apple slices in lemon-lime soda or lemon juice to keep them fresh and bright.
Variations: Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet-and-salty flavor profile. You can also add whipped cream dollops for extra richness.
