Cinnamon Sugar Pizza: The Ultimate Dessert Pizza Recipe

Cinnamon Sugar Pizza: Just the name conjures up images of warm, gooey sweetness, doesn’t it? Forget everything you thought you knew about pizza because this isn’t your average Friday night fare. This is a dessert pizza that will redefine your definition of indulgence. Imagine a perfectly crisp crust, brushed with melted butter, and then generously sprinkled with a fragrant blend of cinnamon and sugar. It’s like a giant, shareable cinnamon roll, but even easier to make!

While its exact origins are shrouded in mystery, the concept of sweetening pizza dough has been around for ages. Variations can be found in different cultures, often as a simple treat enjoyed during celebrations or as a comforting snack. The beauty of cinnamon sugar pizza lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a blank canvas for your sweet cravings.

People adore this dish for so many reasons. The combination of the warm, comforting spices with the satisfying crunch of the crust is simply irresistible. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for a last-minute dessert or a fun activity to do with kids. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is pure bliss. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert or a simple treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Get ready to experience pizza in a whole new, deliciously sweet way!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparing the Dough:

1. Let the dough rise (if necessary). If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to an hour before you start. This will make it easier to stretch and work with. If you’re using homemade dough, follow the instructions in your recipe for proofing and rising.
2. Preheat your oven. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats. This will help create a crispy crust.
3. Prepare your baking sheet or pizza stone. Lightly grease a baking sheet or pizza stone with cooking spray or olive oil. This will prevent the pizza from sticking.
4. Stretch or roll out the dough. On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll out the pizza dough into a 12-14 inch circle. You can also make it into a rectangle or any other shape you prefer. The thinner you make the dough, the crispier the crust will be. I like mine somewhere in the middle – not too thick, not too thin!
5. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet or pizza stone. Carefully transfer the stretched dough to the prepared baking sheet or pizza stone. Make sure it’s centered and evenly distributed.

Creating the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

1. Melt the butter. In a small bowl, melt the unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stovetop. Make sure it’s completely melted but not browned.
2. Combine the sugar, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. This is your cinnamon sugar mixture.
3. Brush the dough with melted butter. Using a pastry brush, evenly brush the melted butter over the entire surface of the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edge. This will help the cinnamon sugar stick to the dough and create a delicious, caramelized crust.
4. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mixture. Generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the buttered dough, making sure to cover every inch. Don’t be shy – the more cinnamon sugar, the better!

Baking the Pizza:

1. Bake the pizza. Place the baking sheet or pizza stone with the prepared pizza in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cinnamon sugar is bubbly and caramelized. Keep a close eye on it, as baking times may vary depending on your oven. You want the crust to be cooked through but not burnt.
2. Check for doneness. To check if the pizza is done, lift a corner of the crust with a spatula. The bottom should be golden brown and crispy. If it’s still doughy, bake for a few more minutes.
3. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet or pizza stone for a few minutes before adding the cream cheese frosting. This will prevent the frosting from melting too much.

Preparing the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Soften the cream cheese. Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before you start. This will make it easier to mix and create a smooth, creamy frosting.
2. Combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for this. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the frosting too thin.
3. Adjust consistency if needed. If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or cream at a time until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add a tablespoon of powdered sugar at a time until it thickens up. I prefer a slightly thicker frosting so it doesn’t run off the pizza.

Frosting and Serving:

1. Frost the pizza. Once the pizza has cooled slightly, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. You can use a spatula or a piping bag to do this. If you’re using a piping bag, you can create a decorative design on top of the pizza.
2. Slice and serve. Slice the pizza into wedges and serve immediately. The warm, crispy crust combined with the sweet cinnamon sugar and creamy frosting is absolutely irresistible!
3. Optional toppings. If you want to add some extra flair, you can sprinkle the pizza with chopped nuts, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of caramel sauce before serving. I sometimes add a sprinkle of sea salt to balance out the sweetness.

Tips and Variations:

• Use different extracts. Instead of vanilla extract, try using almond extract, lemon extract, or even a touch of rum extract in the cream cheese frosting for a different flavor profile.
• Add spices to the cinnamon sugar mixture. For a warmer, more complex flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mixture.
• Make it a dessert pizza bar. Set out a variety of toppings, such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, sprinkles, and different sauces, and let everyone customize their own slice of cinnamon sugar pizza.
• Use different types of dough. While pizza dough is the traditional choice, you can also use crescent roll dough or puff pastry for a flakier, more buttery crust. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
• Make mini pizzas. Use a cookie cutter to cut out small circles of dough and bake them as individual cinnamon sugar pizzas. These are perfect for parties or snacks.
• Add fruit. Top the pizza with sliced apples, pears, or berries before baking for a fruity twist.
• Make a chocolate version. Substitute some of the granulated sugar with cocoa powder in the cinnamon sugar mixture for a chocolatey version. You can also add chocolate chips to the cream cheese frosting.
• Store leftovers properly. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The crust may soften slightly, but it will still taste delicious.
• Reheat leftovers. To reheat leftovers, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but the crust may become soggy.

Troubleshooting:

• Dough is too sticky. If your dough is too sticky to work with, add a little more flour to the surface and your hands.
• Dough is too tough. If your dough is too tough to stretch or roll out, let it rest for a few more minutes to relax the gluten.
• Crust is burning. If the crust is browning too quickly, lower the oven temperature slightly or cover the pizza with foil.
• Frosting is too thin. If your frosting is too thin, add a tablespoon of powdered sugar at a time until it thickens up.
• Frosting is too thick. If your frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or cream at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Sugar Pizza! I hope you find this recipe easy to follow and that it brings you as much joy as it brings me. It’s a perfect treat for any occasion, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Happy baking!

Conclusion:

Well, there you have it! This Cinnamon Sugar Pizza recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. It’s the perfect blend of comforting flavors, simple preparation, and guaranteed smiles. I truly believe this will become a go-to recipe in your household, just as it has in mine. The aroma alone, as it bakes, is enough to make any day a little brighter.

But why is this recipe a must-try? It’s the sheer versatility! Forget complicated desserts that require hours in the kitchen and a pantry full of obscure ingredients. This recipe uses ingredients you likely already have on hand, and it comes together in a flash. It’s the ideal solution for a last-minute sweet craving, a fun activity with the kids, or a crowd-pleasing dessert for any gathering. Plus, who can resist the allure of warm, gooey cinnamon sugar on a crispy pizza crust?

Beyond its simplicity and deliciousness, this Cinnamon Sugar Pizza offers endless possibilities for customization. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a sprinkle of chopped nuts after baking. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top elevates it to a truly decadent treat. For a more sophisticated twist, consider using a balsamic glaze drizzle for a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness. You could even incorporate different spices into the cinnamon sugar mixture, like nutmeg, cardamom, or a pinch of cloves, to create your own signature flavor profile.

Here are a few serving suggestions to get you started:

* Classic Comfort: Serve warm, cut into slices, and enjoy as is.
* Ice Cream Dream: Top with a scoop of your favorite ice cream (vanilla, cinnamon, or even salted caramel would be divine!).
* Chocolate Indulgence: Drizzle with melted chocolate (milk, dark, or white – the choice is yours!).
* Nutty Delight: Sprinkle with chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for added texture and flavor.
* Fruity Freshness: Add sliced strawberries, bananas, or apples for a burst of freshness.
* Brunch Bonanza: Serve alongside coffee or tea for a delightful brunch treat.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own perfect combination! The beauty of this recipe is that it’s incredibly forgiving and adaptable to your personal preferences.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of creating your own delicious Cinnamon Sugar Pizza. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I know you’ll love it as much as I do.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get baking! I can’t wait to hear about your creations. Please, share your photos and experiences in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what toppings you added, and how much everyone enjoyed it. Your feedback is invaluable, and I love seeing how you make this recipe your own. Happy baking!