If you love the cozy flavor of cinnamon and sugar, this Sweet and Crunchy Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza is about to become your new favorite dessert. With a buttery, crispy crust topped with caramelized cinnamon-sugar, this dessert pizza is a simple yet indulgent treat perfect for brunch, family dinners, or anytime you want a sweet bite.
Whether served on its own or paired with ice cream, it’s a dessert that’s easy to make, fun to customize, and sure to impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic flavors in a fun twist: Cinnamon and sugar are timeless, but this pizza format adds excitement and versatility.
- Sweet meets crunch: Crispy edges meet caramelized sugar for a texture that’s irresistible.
- Easy to make: Only a few ingredients—pizza dough, butter, cinnamon, and sugar—come together in just 25 minutes.
- Customizable: Add fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of icing or caramel for extra indulgence.
A Little Background
Dessert pizzas are a modern spin on traditional Italian pizza. While sweet toppings on baked dough aren’t new (think tarts and pastries), turning it into a shareable, pizza-style dessert makes it fun and approachable.
Cinnamon-sugar is a flavor pairing that’s been beloved for centuries—from cinnamon rolls to churros. Bringing it to a pizza crust gives you a sweet, crunchy base that pairs perfectly with any additional toppings.
Prep & Tools
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Essential Tools:
- Pizza stone or baking sheet
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pizza cutter
Tip: A pizza stone ensures a crispier crust, but a baking sheet works well too.
Ingredients
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza:
- 1 ball pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced apples or pears
- Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
- Drizzle of icing or caramel sauce
- Dusting of powdered sugar
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat to 450°F (230°C). Place your pizza stone in the oven if using, or lightly grease a baking sheet.
2. Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thick for a crispier crust. Transfer to your stone or sheet.
3. Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, mix sugar, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla (if using).
4. Assemble the Pizza
Brush melted butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
5. Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until edges are golden and sugar caramelizes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
6. Finish & Serve
Cool slightly, then add optional toppings. Slice into 8 pieces and serve warm.
Recipe Variations
- Apple Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza: Add thin apple slices before baking for a juicy, fruity flavor.
- Pecan Crunch Pizza: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for extra crunch.
- Cream Cheese Drizzle: Mix cream cheese with powdered sugar and milk, then drizzle over warm pizza.
- Chocolate Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza: Drizzle melted chocolate or add mini chocolate chips.
- Maple-Glazed Pizza: Brush maple syrup over the dough or drizzle on top after baking.
- Coconut Pizza: Add shredded or toasted coconut for a tropical twist.
Storage & Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
- Refrigeration: Up to 3 days; crust may soften slightly.
- Freezing: Wrap cooled pizza tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Oven (350°F/175°C, 5–10 mins) for crispiness, microwave for 20–30 seconds, or skillet for 2–3 minutes.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza
- Watch baking closely to prevent sugar from burning.
- Roll dough evenly for consistent baking.
- Add finishing touches like icing or nuts for extra flavor and presentation.
- Experiment with spices like nutmeg or vanilla for deeper flavor.
Nutritional Notes (Per Slice, Approx.)
- Calories: 250–300 kcal
- Carbs: 30–35g
- Sugars: 15–20g
- Fat: 12–15g
- Protein: 3–5g
Health Tips: Use whole wheat dough, plant-based butter, or sugar alternatives for a healthier version.
Conclusion
Sweet and Crunchy Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves cinnamon, sugar, and buttery, crunchy textures. Quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for sharing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.
Serve warm, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy the sweet, crispy, and comforting flavors of this delightful treat.