# What You'll Need:
→ Sugar Cookie Crust
01 - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Cream Cheese Frosting
08 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
09 - 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
10 - 1 cup powdered sugar
11 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
12 - Food coloring (optional, teal or purple)
→ Fruit Toppings
13 - 1/2 cup blueberries
14 - 1/2 cup peeled, sliced kiwi
15 - 1/2 cup hulled, sliced strawberries
16 - 1/2 cup halved grapes (red or green)
17 - 1/2 cup diced mango or pineapple
18 - 1/2 cup blackberries or raspberries
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
03 - In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until fully incorporated.
04 - Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
05 - Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a mermaid tail approximately 12 to 14 inches long. Refine the edges with a knife or template if desired.
06 - Bake for 13 to 15 minutes until the edges turn lightly golden. Remove and allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
07 - Beat cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Slowly add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy. Add food coloring as desired.
08 - Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie base.
09 - Layer the prepared fruits in overlapping rows to mimic mermaid tail scales, using a variety of colors for visual appeal.
10 - Refrigerate the assembled dessert for 20 minutes before slicing and serving to set the frosting.
