If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines delightful sweetness with fresh, vibrant fruit, then you absolutely must try the Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Fruit Tart Recipe. This beautiful tart features a perfectly golden cinnamon sugar cookie crust that’s both tender and crisp, topped with a luscious cream cheese filling infused with warm cinnamon apple flavor and finished with an array of colorful fruits glazed in champagne jelly. It’s a fantastic blend of textures and flavors that feels both comforting and refreshingly light, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, high-quality ingredients is the first step to nailing this Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Fruit Tart Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role, from the cookie mix that forms our buttery crisp crust to the fresh fruit that adds brightness and texture. Let’s dive in!
- 1 package Ah, Sugar Sugar!â„¢ Cookie Mix: This mix gives the cookie crust its perfect cinnamon sugar flavor and tender crumb.
- 7 tablespoons butter, softened: Adds richness and helps create a buttery, flaky crust.
- â…“ cup 2% milk: Moistens the dough so it presses easily into the tart pan.
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened: The creamy base for our filling adds tang and smooth texture.
- 1 jar Champagne Jelly, divided: Used both in the filling and as a glossy glaze on top for a sweet, elegant shine.
- ½ teaspoon Cinnamon Apple Seasoning: Infuses the cream cheese filling with warm, cozy spice notes.
- 1 large kiwi fruit, peeled and sliced, slices cut in half: Offers a fresh, slightly tart contrast and vibrant green color.
- ½ cup mandarin orange segments in light syrup, drained: Adds juicy citrus bursts and beautiful orange hues.
- 1½ cups fresh blackberries, raspberries, and/or sliced strawberries: These berries provide juicy sweetness and a pop of red and purple shades.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Fruit Tart Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A properly preheated oven ensures your cinnamon sugar cookie crust will bake evenly to golden perfection.
Step 2: Prepare Cookie Crust
In a large bowl, combine the Ah, Sugar Sugar! Cookie Mix with softened butter. Use a fork to mix until small crumbles form—this helps create a tender crust texture. Add the 2% milk and continue mixing until fully combined into a dough.
Step 3: Press Dough into Tart Pan
Wet your hands slightly (this prevents sticking) and press the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a greased 9-inch tart pan. Creating an even thickness will help the crust bake uniformly and hold the filling nicely.
Step 4: Bake Crust
Bake for 25 minutes, then carefully remove the tart from the oven. Press down the crust gently using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to compact it. Return the tart to the oven and bake an additional 10 minutes. Remove and press the crust down again for a firm, crisp base. Let cool completely before adding the filling.
Step 5: Make Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ¼ cup champagne jelly, and cinnamon apple seasoning. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until light and fluffy. This creamy filling balances the crunchy crust and fresh fruit beautifully.
Step 6: Spread Filling
Once the crust is fully cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the tart base. The smooth layer provides a rich backdrop for our fresh fruit topping.
Step 7: Top with Fruit
Now for the fun part — arranging your fruit! Arrange slices of kiwi, mandarin orange segments, and an assortment of fresh blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries on top of the filling. Feel free to create a pattern or a more casual, colorful mix—the fruit adds freshness and a feast for the eyes.
Step 8: Brush with Jelly
Warm the remaining champagne jelly slightly to make it easier to brush. Using a pastry brush, gently glaze the fruit with the jelly to give your tart a beautiful shiny finish and a hint of extra sweetness.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Fruit Tart Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving, or add a few mint leaves for a fresh pop of green. A sprinkle of chopped toasted almonds on top can introduce a lovely crunch contrast if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This tart pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A hot cup of cinnamon-spiced tea or a bright, citrusy coffee will also elevate the flavor experience of this dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Make individual mini tarts using a muffin pan for charming personal servings. Alternatively, serve this tart on a vibrant platter surrounded by extra fresh fruits and edible flowers for beautiful presentation at brunch or celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Fruit Tart Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect to enjoy over a couple of days without losing texture or flavor.
Freezing
While the cookie crust can hold up well in the fridge, fruit tarts generally do not freeze well because the fresh fruit can become mushy when thawed. It’s best to prepare and serve this tart fresh.
Reheating
Since this tart is best enjoyed chilled, reheating isn’t usually necessary. If you prefer a slightly warmer tart, bring it to room temperature before serving rather than heating it, to preserve the cream cheese filling’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cookie dough instead of the cookie mix?
Absolutely! You can use your favorite cinnamon sugar cookie dough recipe if you prefer homemade. Just make sure the dough is firm enough to press into the tart pan and bake without spreading too much.
What types of fruit work best for this tart?
The classic combo of kiwi, mandarin oranges, and berries used here offers a nice balance of tartness and sweetness. However, feel free to swap in peaches, grapes, or pineapple depending on the season and your taste preferences.
How long does it take to make this tart?
This recipe takes about one hour from start to finish, including baking and cooling time. It’s great for planning ahead but still quick enough for a spontaneous dessert idea.
Can the tart be made gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free cookie mix or homemade gluten-free dough with similar ingredients. Just ensure all other ingredients, like jelly and seasoning, are gluten-free as well.
Is the tart suitable for a kids’ party?
Definitely! Kids love the sweet cinnamon sugar cookie base combined with colorful, fresh fruit, and the tart is visually appealing and easy to eat with hands or forks, making it a fun, festive treat for all ages.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Fruit Tart Recipe. It’s one of those desserts that makes you feel warm and festive, yet light and fresh — perfect for any occasion when you want to impress but keep things approachable. Trust me, once you make this tart, it will quickly become a favorite in your recipe box to share with friends and family. So go ahead, give this recipe a whirl and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Fruit Tart Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Fruit Tart featuring a buttery cookie crust, creamy cinnamon-spiced filling, and a colorful assortment of fresh fruit topped with a glossy champagne jelly glaze. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat to impress guests.
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
- ½ teaspoon Cinnamon Apple Seasoning
Topping and Garnish
- 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
- Remaining Champagne Jelly for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cookie crust.
- Prepare the Cookie Crust: In a large bowl, combine the Ah, Sugar Sugar!â„¢ Cookie Mix with the softened butter. Using a fork, mix until small crumbs form. Add the 2% milk and mix thoroughly until the dough is well combined.
- Press Dough into Tart Pan: With wet hands, press the cookie dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a greased 9-inch tart pan, ensuring it is compact and well-shaped.
- Bake the Crust: Place the tart pan in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and firmly press the crust down using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to even it out. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Remove again and press down once more to maintain an even surface. Allow the crust to cool completely before adding filling.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ¼ cup of Champagne Jelly, and Cinnamon Apple Seasoning. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled cookie crust.
- Arrange Fruit on Tart: Artfully arrange the sliced kiwi, mandarin orange segments, and fresh berries over the cream cheese layer in the pattern of your choice, creating an inviting and colorful presentation.
- Glaze the Tart: Lightly brush the remaining Champagne Jelly over the fruit topping to give the tart a shiny, attractive finish and to add a touch of sweetness.
Notes
- Ensure the cookie crust is completely cooled before spreading the cream cheese filling to prevent melting.
- Using wet hands when pressing the dough helps prevent sticking and makes it easier to shape the crust.
- Feel free to substitute or add other fresh fruits such as blueberries or grapes to customize the topping.
- Chill the tart for at least 30 minutes before serving for best texture and flavor.
