Watermelon Pizza with Citrus Cheesecake Topping

A refreshing summer dessert featuring a thick watermelon "crust" topped with a light citrus cheesecake topping and fresh fruit. It tastes like a cross between fruit pizza, cheesecake, and watermelon salad.

Yield: 8-10 slices
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Special Equipment: hand mixer

Ingredients

• 1 large round slice watermelon, 1 to 1½ inches thick

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup marshmallow fluff

• 1 regular tub whipped topping

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 4 to 6 strawberries, sliced

• 1/2 cup raspberries

• 1/2 cup canned mandarin orange slices, drained and patted dry

Directions

1. Cut a large round slice from the center of the watermelon and pat both sides dry with paper towels.

2. Beat together cream cheese, marshmallow fluff, vanilla, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Fold in the whipped topping until light and fluffy.

3. Spread the topping evenly over the watermelon slice and arrange the strawberries, raspberries, and mandarin oranges decoratively on top.

4. Refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes, then cut into wedges and serve.

   October Dragonfly's Finishing Touch:

   Sprinkle a little extra lemon zest over the top just before serving.