If you are searching for a dazzling yet approachable dessert to impress friends and family, the Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Fruit Tart Recipe is an absolute must-try. This tart perfectly balances the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon sugar cookie crust with a creamy, lightly spiced filling and a colorful crown of fresh fruit. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes—from the buttery crumbly base to the cool tangy cream cheese layer, finished with the natural sweetness and brightness of kiwi, berries, and mandarin oranges. Whether for a special gathering or a weekend treat, this tart is a joyful way to showcase simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Fruit Tart Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, ensuring your tart comes together beautifully in both flavor and texture. From the cookie mix that forms a tender crust to the fresh fruits that add vibrant color and freshness, every element has a purpose.
- Ah, Sugar Sugar!â„¢ Cookie Mix: The base of the crust, providing a sweet cinnamon-scented foundation with perfect crumbly texture.
- Butter (7 tablespoons, softened): Adds richness to the cookie crust, ensuring it’s tender and flavorful.
- 2% Milk (â…“ cup): Helps bind the cookie dough together for easy pressing into the tart pan.
- Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened): Creates a smooth, creamy layer that complements the fruit’s freshness.
- Champagne Jelly (1 jar, divided): Adds a sweet, slightly sparkling glaze that seals in the fruit and adds shine.
- Cinnamon Apple Seasoning (½ teaspoon): Infuses the filling with warm spice notes, tying the tart together beautifully.
- Kiwi (1 large, peeled and sliced): Offers bright green color and tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness.
- Mandarin Orange Segments (½ cup, drained): Brings juicy bursts of citrus flavor and a delightful pop of color.
- Fresh Blackberries, Raspberries, and/or Sliced Strawberries (1½ cups): Provides juicy freshness and varied textures, making the tart visually stunning.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Fruit Tart Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start off by setting the stage for baking perfection. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s at the right temperature the moment your tart is ready to go in, helping the crust bake evenly and develop that golden hue we’re aiming for.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Crust
In a large bowl, combine the Ah, Sugar Sugar!™ Cookie Mix with the softened butter using a fork until you see small crumbles forming—this is the secret to that tender yet sturdy crust. Next, add the ⅓ cup of milk and stir until everything is well combined and forms a dough that feels easy to press. This simple step transforms your crust from a mix to a workable dough with the perfect cinnamon sugar aroma.
Step 3: Press Dough into Tart Pan
Using wet hands to prevent sticking, gently press the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch well-greased tart pan. This ensures an even thickness for a neat crust that will hold all the scrumptious filling and fruit without crumbling apart.
Step 4: Bake the Crust
Bake for 25 minutes and then carefully remove the tart from the oven. Right after, press down the crust using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to compact it slightly—this helps prevent any cracks. Return it to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, remove again and press down once more. Let the crust cool completely before moving on. This double pressing technique creates a beautifully firm and even base.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ¼ cup of Champagne Jelly, and the ½ teaspoon of Cinnamon Apple Seasoning. Using an electric mixer, beat everything until it’s light and fluffy. This results in a luscious, lightly spiced filling that spreads easily over the crust and adds a silky smooth layer beneath the fresh fruit.
Step 6: Spread Filling and Arrange Fruit
Gently spread the cream cheese mixture over your cooled crust with a spatula, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Then, arrange your choice of kiwi halves, mandarin orange segments, berries, or sliced strawberries on top in any pattern you love. This is where your creativity shines as the colorful fruit decorates your tart like an edible work of art.
Step 7: Brush with Melted Champagne Jelly
To finish, microwave the remaining Champagne Jelly for about 15-20 seconds until melted in a microwave-safe dish. Use a pastry brush to gently coat the arranged fruit with this shimmering glaze. It locks in moisture, adds a subtle sparkle, and makes the tart irresistible to the eye and palate alike.
Step 8: Chill Until Set
Refrigerate the tart for 1 to 2 hours or until the cream cheese filling is firm. This chilling step helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing clean and easy, giving you beautiful portions that hold together perfectly for serving.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Fruit Tart Recipe
Garnishes
For an elegant touch, sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or a pinch of extra Cinnamon Apple Seasoning over the top just before serving. You can also add fresh mint leaves for a pop of green freshness and aroma, which pairs beautifully with the fruit flavors.
Side Dishes
This tart shines as a stand-alone dessert, but pairing it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream makes it an unforgettable treat. A light cup of herbal tea or sparkling lemonade complements the tart’s fruity brightness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual slices on pretty dessert plates with a drizzle of leftover melted jelly or a spoonful of fruit compote on the side. You can also cut mini versions in muffin tins for bite-sized tartlets—perfect for parties or afternoon tea gatherings. Presentation is an opportunity to delight your guests visually as well as with flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover tart tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days, retaining its perfect creamy and fruity textures without drying out.
Freezing
Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the baked crust before adding the filling and fruit. Wrap it securely and freeze for up to a month. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and then proceed with filling and assembling for the best results.
Reheating
This tart is not meant to be reheated because the fresh fruit and cream cheese filling taste best chilled. Just take it out of the fridge about 10 minutes before serving to take the chill off and allow the flavors to shine fully.
FAQs
Can I substitute the cookie mix for a homemade crust?
Absolutely! If you prefer making your own from scratch, a simple cinnamon sugar cookie dough or even a shortbread crust would work beautifully and keep the flavors in line with the original recipe.
What if I don’t have Champagne Jelly? Can I use something else?
Yes, you can substitute with apricot or peach jelly, which will provide a similar glossy finish and fruity sweetness. Just warm it slightly to brush easily over the fruit.
Is this tart suitable for special occasions?
Definitely! The elegant look and delightful flavor combination make the Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Fruit Tart Recipe perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any gathering where you want to impress without stress.
Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?
Fresh fruit is ideal to maintain the tart’s firm texture and vibrant appearance, but thawed and well-drained frozen berries can work in a pinch. Just be careful to avoid making the filling too watery.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This tart recipe yields about 12 servings, making it great for sharing with a crowd or saving some for the next day’s dessert cravings.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the way the Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Fruit Tart Recipe brings together cozy spices, creamy filling, and fresh fruit in a beautiful yet simple dessert. It’s a joy to make and a delight to share, perfect for those moments when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something gorgeous and delicious. Dive in and enjoy every luscious bite!
Print
Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Fruit Tart Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Fruit Tart features a buttery sugar cookie crust topped with a creamy cinnamon-spiced cream cheese filling and an assortment of fresh fruits. Finished with a glossy Champagne Jelly glaze, this tart is a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for special occasions or a refreshing dessert.
Ingredients
Cookie Crust
- 1 package Ah, Sugar Sugar!â„¢ Cookie Mix
- 7 tablespoons butter, softened
- â…“ cup 2% milk
Filling
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup Champagne Jelly (plus additional for brushing)
- ½ teaspoon Cinnamon Apple Seasoning
Topping
- 1 large kiwi fruit, peeled and sliced, slices cut in half
- ½ cup mandarin orange segments in light syrup, drained
- 1½ cups fresh blackberries, raspberries, and/or sliced strawberries
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cookie crust.
- Prepare Cookie Crust: In a large bowl, combine the Ah, Sugar Sugar! Cookie Mix with softened butter. Mix with a fork until small crumbles form. Add the 2% milk and mix until the dough is well combined.
- Press Dough: Using wet hands to prevent sticking, press the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a well-greased 9-inch tart pan, creating a uniform crust.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust for 25 minutes. Remove it from the oven and gently press it down using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to compact it. Bake for an additional 10 minutes, then press down again. Allow the crust to cool completely.
- Make Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ¼ cup Champagne Jelly, and Cinnamon Apple Seasoning. Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. Spread this filling evenly over the cooled crust.
- Top with Fruit: Arrange the sliced kiwi, mandarin orange segments, and fresh berries attractively on top of the cream cheese filling according to your preference.
- Brush with Jelly: Microwave the remaining Champagne Jelly in a microwave-safe dish on HIGH for 15-20 seconds until melted. Brush this glaze gently over the arranged fruit to give a shiny finish and added sweetness.
- Chill: Refrigerate the tart for 1 to 2 hours or until the cream cheese filling has firmed up, making it easier to slice and serve.
Notes
- Use wet hands when pressing the dough to prevent sticking and ensure an even crust.
- Pressing the crust twice during baking helps create a firm, compact base that holds the filling well.
- The Cinnamon Apple Seasoning adds a subtle warmth; adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
- Feel free to customize the fruit topping with any fresh berries or fruits of your choice.
- The chilled tart is best served within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
