Strawberry Pizza

This dessert recipe, which I first made in California, has proved an enduring success in my family, and a perennial summertime favorite.

This tastes like essence of summer. Enjoy!

1. 1

   For Strawberry Topping:

2. 2

   Sprinkle sugar over the strawberries and let macerate.

3. 3

   Cook the berries over low to medium heat until they soften.

4. 4

   Mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of the strawberry juice in a separate small container or cup, until it forms a smooth paste.

5. 5

   Then add the paste into the strawberry mix.

6. 6

   Cook the mixture until it is thick and glossy.

7. 7

   Allow to cool.

8. 8

   For Shortbread Crust:

9. 9

   Mix ingredients in a small bowl.

10. 10

    Use hands to form the dough into a ball.

11. 11

    Press the dough onto an ungreased 12" pizza pan.

12. 12

    Bake at 325 for 15 minutes, until the crust begins to turn a light golden brown.

13. 13

    Allow the pizza pan to cool on a wire rack.

14. 14

    For Filling:

15. 15

    Combine ingredients until smooth.

16. 16

    Spread the filling onto the cooled shortbread crust, leaving a rim exposed, just like a pizza.

17. 17

    Add the strawberry 'jam' mixture on top, and spread evenly.

18. 18

    Slice fresh strawberries on top.