While pizza is the ultimate comfort food for many, the one question that always seems to arise when devouring a pie is – What desserts go with pizza?
The savory flavors and textures of pizza are deeply satisfying on their own, but some find that the meal isn’t fully complete without something sweet to follow.
In this post, we’ll explore some unique and unconventional dessert options that go surprisingly well with everyone’s favorite savory pie. Prepare for your tastebuds to be intrigued and delighted as we get this sweet-tooth-satisfying discussion underway!
Understanding The Pizza Palate
Before we dive into the world of pizza pairings, let’s first understand what makes a good match for this beloved dish.
Pizza has a complex flavor profile, with different levels of acidity, sweetness, and umami all present in one bite. This means that the dessert you choose should not only be complementary but also have enough depth to stand up to the bold flavors of pizza.
The Role Of Savory In Pizza
Savory plays a fundamental and defining role in the world of pizza, contributing to its widespread appeal and timeless popularity.
At the heart of this culinary masterpiece, the savory element begins with the foundational layer – the crust. The crust, whether thin and crispy or thick and chewy, sets the stage for a symphony of savory flavors.
Moving upward, the sauce introduces a savory profile, often derived from ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a hint of garlic. The combination of cheese, whether mozzarella or Parmesan, adds richness and umami, further intensifying the savory experience.
Toppings, ranging from classic pepperoni to exotic combinations, provide layers of savory complexity, creating a dynamic interplay of textures and tastes.
When considering a dessert pairing, it’s essential to keep this in mind and choose something that won’t overpower or clash with the savory notes of the pizza.
The Sweet Aftertaste
As we mentioned earlier, pizza has a complex flavor profile that often leads to a lingering and satisfying aftertaste.
The sweetness in pizza comes from various sources, such as the natural sugars in tomatoes or caramelized onions and the contrast of sweet and salty flavors in popular toppings like pineapple and bacon.
When choosing a dessert to complement this sweet aftertaste, it’s vital to consider both the level of sweetness and the type of sweetness. A dessert that is too sweet or lacks depth may leave your palate feeling overwhelmed or unsatisfied.
Now that we’ve established a basic understanding of the pizza palate, let’s dive into some unique and mouth-watering dessert options to pair with your next pie.
The 20 Best Desserts To Go With Pizza
I’m sure this is the part you’re most looking forward to – the answer to the question of what desserts go with pizza. The best dessert to pair with pizza depends on personal preferences and the flavor profile of the pizza you’re enjoying.
Here are some classic and innovative dessert options that complement various types of pizzas:
Fruit-based Desserts
1. Fruit Sorbet
This dessert is made from frozen fruit puree, sugar, and water. It has a light and refreshing texture, making it the perfect palate cleanser after a slice of pizza. Popular flavors include lemon, raspberry, and mango.
2. Mixed Berry Parfait
A mixed berry parfait layers fresh berries, yogurt or whipped cream, and granola or cookie crumbles. This dessert is not only visually appealing but also provides a variety of textures, with the juiciness of berries contrasting with the crunchy granola.
3. Fruit Tart
A fruit tart is a delightful dessert consisting of a buttery crust, a layer of pastry cream, and an array of fresh fruits arranged on top. The combination of a crisp crust, creamy filling, and vibrant fruits creates a visually appealing and delicious treat.
4. Berries and Cream Crepes
Soft crepes filled with a mixture of fresh berries and sweetened whipped cream create a delicate and delightful dessert. The thin crepes provide a light and airy texture that contrasts well with heartier pizzas.
5. Apple Galette
An apple galette is a rustic and free-form tart featuring thinly sliced apples with sugar and spices, baked to golden perfection. The combination of flaky pastry and sweet-tart apples pairs well with a variety of pizzas.
6. Grilled Peaches With Vanilla Ice Cream
This simple yet flavorful dessert involves grilling fresh peaches until caramelized and serving them with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The warm, sweet peaches complement the cool, creamy ice cream and add a touch of smokiness to the dish.
Classic Italian Desserts
1. Tiramisu
A quintessential Italian dessert, tiramisu consists of layers of ladyfingers soaked in espresso and a creamy mixture of mascarpone cheese, eggs, sugar, and marsala wine. The rich and indulgent flavors make it a perfect pairing for pizza.
2. Cannoli
These fried pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese and often chocolate chips or candied fruit are a beloved Italian dessert. The creamy filling and crispy shell provide a nice contrast to the savory flavors of pizza.
3. Gelato
Similar to ice cream, gelato is made from milk, sugar, and flavorings such as fruit puree or chocolate. However, it has a lower fat content and is churned at a slower speed, resulting in a denser and creamier texture. Popular flavors include pistachio, hazelnut, and stracciatella (chocolate chip).
4. Panna Cotta
This simple yet elegant dessert consists of cooked cream, sugar, and gelatin that is molded into individual servings and served with fresh fruit or a fruit compote. The smooth and silky texture pairs well with the chewy crust of pizza.
5. Affogato
Another Italian favorite, affogato is a dessert that combines espresso and vanilla gelato. The hot espresso is poured over the cold gelato, resulting in a delicious contrast of temperatures and flavors that can complement the savory notes of pizza.
Piece Of Cake Or Pie
1. Chocolate Cake
Moist and decadent, chocolate cake is a classic choice. The richness of the chocolate complements various pizza flavors. It pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
2. Apple Pie
A classic American dessert that is loved around the world, apple pie consists of a flaky pastry filled with sliced apples, sugar, and spices. The warm and comforting flavors of the pie can balance out the savory notes of pizza.
3. Cheesecake
Although not a traditional cake, cheesecake is a velvety and indulgent option. Choose classic New York style or experiment with fruit-flavored variations.
4. Key Lime Pie
A tangy and refreshing dessert, key lime pie is made from a graham cracker crust filled with a creamy and tart lime filling. The citrus flavors can complement the acidity of tomato sauce on pizza, making it an unexpected yet delicious pairing.
5. Red Velvet Cake
This vibrant red cake with cream cheese frosting is a popular choice for celebrations and desserts. The rich and sweet flavors of the cake can provide a nice balance to savory pizza, while the cream cheese frosting adds a creamy element.
Dessert Drinks
1. Affogato Martini
A unique twist on the classic Italian dessert, this drink combines espresso, vodka, and vanilla ice cream for a creamy and boozy treat. The coffee flavors can pair well with savory pizza, while the alcohol adds an extra kick.
2. Lemon Drop Martini
This tart and refreshing cocktail is made from lemon juice, sugar, and vodka. The tangy flavors can balance out the savory elements in pizza, making it a suitable pairing.
3. Chocolate Milkshake
A classic dessert drink, chocolate milkshakes are made from ice cream and milk blended. The rich and creamy texture can provide a nice contrast to the chewy crust of pizza.
4. Tea With Honey
For those who prefer a lighter and more natural dessert drink, tea with honey can be a perfect choice. The sweetness of the honey can complement the savory flavors in pizza, while the warmth and comfort of the tea can balance out the meal.
Tips For Pairing Desserts With Pizza
Besides providing you with a good answer to the question of what desserts go with pizza, it’s also essential to know some notes that should be considered when choosing the desserts that go with pizza.
As we know, the art of pairing desserts with pizza is a nuanced exploration that involves the delicate balance of flavors and the harmonious interplay of textures. Just as the savory elements of pizza delight the palate, the choice of dessert serves as the crescendo to the culinary symphony.
Below are a few key principles that will help you choose a dessert to go with your pizza.
Balancing Between Sweet and Savory Flavors
Pairing sweet and savory flavors creates a tantalizing contrast that heightens the culinary experience. The saltiness of the pizza toppings can be beautifully offset by the sweetness of a dessert.
For instance, the tang of tomato sauce on a pizza slice can be countered by a slice of sweet apple pie or a creamy, rich chocolate cake.
Conversely, a pizza with sweet toppings, like pineapple, can be perfectly balanced with a dessert that has a hint of bitterness or tartness, such as a lemon tart or a dark chocolate mousse.
The key is to ensure neither flavor overpowers the other, and each bite includes a burst of both savory and sweet.
Complementing Between The Crispy and Creamy Textures
Texture plays a critical role in selecting the perfect dessert to pair with pizza. The chewy crust and melting cheese of a pizza provide a delightful bite that can be enhanced with a contrasting dessert.
For example, a crispy cannoli or a flaky apple strudel could perfectly complement the smooth and chewy texture of pizza.
On the other hand, a pizza with a particularly crispy crust can be balanced out by a dessert with a softer, creamier texture, such as a scoop of smooth gelato or a slice of rich, creamy cheesecake.
This juxtaposition of textures adds an interesting dimension to the meal, making each bite a unique experience.
Be adventurous and experiment with different combinations to find your perfect pizza and dessert pairing.
How To Choose The Right Dessert For Your Pizza?
Below, we will help you generalize what to keep in mind to choosing the right dessert to go with your pizza.
When selecting the perfect dessert to complement your pizza, it’s essential to consider the interplay of flavors and textures between the two dishes.
– For a savory and rich pizza, opt for a lighter and refreshing dessert like fruit or gelato.
– Conversely, if your pizza leans towards the sweeter side, choose a dessert with more depth and richness, such as tiramisu or chocolate lava cake.
In addition, strive for overall balance in your meal by pairing heavy and indulgent pizzas with lighter desserts, and vice versa.
Don’t forget to pay attention to temperature contrast, as a hot pizza pairs well with a cold or room-temperature dessert, while a warm dessert can provide a delightful contrast to a cooler pizza.
Conclusion
Next time you’re faced with the question of what desserts go with pizza, remember that the art of pairing desserts with pizza involves thoughtful consideration of flavors, textures, and overall balance.
By exploring various combinations, considering the temperature contrast, and embracing personal preferences, you can discover delightful ways to conclude your pizza feast.