There’s just something so magical about the combination of warm, doughy cinnamon pizza crust covered in sweet cinnamon sugar. It’s the perfect treat for movie nights, birthday parties, or just a random Tuesday when you need a little pick-me-up. Plus, it’s so customizable! You can add a cream cheese glaze, chocolate chips, fruit – the possibilities are endless!
I know how busy life can get, and sometimes, the thought of making a homemade dessert can feel overwhelming. But trust me, once you try this easy cinnamon sugar pizza recipe, it’ll become your new go-to. It’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. And the best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry! So, grab your apron and let’s get baking! You’re going to love this.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade) – I usually use store-bought dough to save time, but if you’re feeling ambitious, homemade is always a delicious option. The Baking: Pizza Dough Recipe is my go to.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – I always use unsalted butter so I can control the amount of salt in the recipe.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Plain white sugar works perfectly here.
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon – I prefer Ceylon cinnamon for its lighter, sweeter flavor, but any ground cinnamon will do.
- Optional: 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, for dusting – This adds a nice finishing touch, but it’s totally optional.
- Optional: Cream cheese glaze – For an extra layer of richness and flavor, add a simple cream cheese glaze after baking. (Recipe below)
Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Okay, let’s talk ingredients for a second. I always use store-bought pizza dough because, let’s be real, who has time to make it from scratch on a busy weeknight? But if you’re feeling ambitious, go for it! I usually buy my dough from Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods – they have pretty good options. Store-bought dough is a fantastic shortcut for busy weeknights, but making your own dough from scratch can be a rewarding experience. Experiment with different flours and hydration levels to find a dough that suits your taste!
As for the cinnamon sugar mixture, I like to use a good quality cinnamon. It makes a big difference in the flavor. And here’s a trick my mom taught me: warm the cinnamon slightly in a dry pan before mixing it with the sugar. It intensifies the flavor and makes the cinnamon sugar pizza even more delicious!
You can find all of these ingredients at your local grocery store. If you’re like me and like to buy in bulk, cinnamon and sugar are great pantry staples to stock up on. Just make sure to store them in airtight containers to keep them fresh. For the cream cheese, I like to buy the brick kind, not the spreadable kind, for the best consistency in the glaze.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven while it preheats. This helps the cinnamon pizza crust get nice and crispy. Using a pizza stone or preheated baking sheet helps to create a crispier crust. If you don’t have either, a regular baking sheet will work, but the crust might not be as crispy.
- Lightly flour a clean surface. Roll out the pizza dough into a large circle or rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect – rustic is charming, right? The thickness of the dough affects the final texture. Thinner dough will result in a crispier pizza, while thicker dough will be chewier.
- Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to a piece of parchment paper. This makes it easier to slide onto the hot pizza stone or baking sheet. Parchment paper is a baker’s best friend! It prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the baking sheet.
- Brush the melted butter evenly over the entire surface of the dough. Make sure to get all the way to the edges! Melted butter adds richness and flavor to the crust. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe.
- In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined. The Cinnamon Sugar Mixture is a good resource for the proportions.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough. Use your fingers to gently press the cinnamon sugar into the dough so it sticks. Pressing the cinnamon sugar into the dough ensures that it adheres properly and doesn’t fall off during baking.
- Carefully slide the parchment paper with the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the cinnamon pizza crust is golden brown and the cinnamon sugar is bubbly and caramelized. Keep a close eye on it, as ovens can vary! You’ll know it’s ready when it smells heavenly and the edges are nicely browned. Baking time can vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the dough. Keep a close eye on the pizza to prevent burning.
- While the pizza is baking, prepare the cream cheese glaze (optional): In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the glaze reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for a smooth and creamy glaze. Adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
- Remove the cinnamon sugar pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack.
- If using, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the warm pizza.
- Dust with powdered sugar (optional), slice, and serve immediately.
Okay, so here are a few tips I’ve learned over the years. First, make sure your oven is really hot. That’s key to getting a crispy crust. And don’t overcrowd the cinnamon pizza crust with too much cinnamon sugar. A thin, even layer is all you need.
I learned the hard way that using too much butter can make the crust soggy. So, be sure to use just enough to coat the dough, but not so much that it’s pooling.
While the pizza is baking, I usually prep the cream cheese glaze (if I’m using it) or tidy up the kitchen. Multitasking is my superpower!
If you’re using store-bought dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out. This makes it easier to work with and prevents it from snapping back.
And finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with toppings! Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce would be delicious on this cinnamon sugar pizza. Get creative and add your own personal touch!
Serving Ideas
My family goes absolutely crazy for this cinnamon sugar pizza. The kids love it when I cut it into small squares and serve it as an after-school snack. My husband enjoys it with a cup of coffee after dinner. And I love it any time of day!
It’s the perfect treat for birthday parties, potlucks, or even just a cozy night in. I often make it for movie nights, and it’s always a hit.
For side dishes, I usually keep it simple. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream is always a good choice. You could also serve it with fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, for a lighter option. The cool creaminess of ice cream or whipped cream complements the warm, sweet pizza perfectly. Fresh fruit adds a refreshing element and a pop of color.
I learned that presentation is key, so I always make sure to slice the cinnamon sugar pizza neatly and arrange it nicely on a platter. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce adds a nice finishing touch.
If you have extras (which is rare in my house), you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. But honestly, it’s best served fresh and warm.
For a seasonal variation, try adding pumpkin spice to the cinnamon sugar mixture in the fall. It’s SO good! Or, during the holidays, you can add a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies on top. These seasonal twists add a festive touch and make the pizza even more special for holidays and gatherings.
My friends always ask for the recipe when I make this. It’s such a simple and unexpected dessert that everyone loves. And the best part is, it’s so easy to customize to your own taste.
FAQs
Oh, I’m so glad you asked! Here are some of the most common questions I get about this cinnamon sugar pizza recipe:
Q: Can I use a different type of dough?
A: Absolutely! You can use any type of pizza dough you like, including whole wheat, gluten-free, or even puff pastry. Just keep in mind that the baking time may vary depending on the type of dough you use.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can definitely prepare the cinnamon sugar mixture and the cream cheese glaze ahead of time. Just store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. However, I recommend baking the pizza fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Q: What if my dough is too sticky to roll out?
A: If your dough is too sticky, try dusting it with a little extra flour. You can also chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to make it easier to handle. I’ve been there, trust me!
Q: Can I add other toppings?
A: Of course! The possibilities are endless! Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, dried fruit, caramel sauce, or even a sprinkle of sea salt would all be delicious on this cinnamon sugar pizza. Get creative and have fun!
Q: My cinnamon sugar is clumping together. What should I do?
A: This happens to me all the time! Just use a fork to break up the clumps before sprinkling it over the dough. You can also try sifting the cinnamon sugar mixture to ensure that it’s evenly distributed.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: While you can freeze the leftovers, I don’t recommend it. The crust tends to get a little soggy when thawed. It’s best to enjoy this cinnamon sugar pizza fresh.
Q: What if I don’t have a pizza stone?
A: No problem! You can use a regular baking sheet instead. Just make sure to preheat it in the oven before placing the pizza on it.
You know what I do when my pizza crust isn’t browning evenly? I rotate it halfway through the baking time. This helps to ensure that it cooks evenly on all sides.
My Final Thoughts
This cinnamon sugar pizza holds a special place in my heart because it’s such a simple and comforting treat that my whole family loves. It’s a reminder that you don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated recipes to create something truly delicious. It’s about creating memories and sharing moments of joy with the people you love.
My Pro Tips:
- Don’t skip the parchment paper! It makes transferring the pizza to the hot baking sheet so much easier and prevents sticking.
- Use melted butter, not oil! The butter adds a richness and flavor that you just can’t get with oil.
- Sprinkle a little sea salt on top! The salt enhances the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar and adds a nice depth of flavor.
Here are a few variations I’ve tried with my family:
- Nutella Pizza: Spread a thin layer of Nutella over the dough before adding the cinnamon sugar. My kids go absolutely crazy for this one!
- Apple Pie Pizza: Top the cinnamon sugar pizza with thinly sliced apples and a sprinkle of brown sugar before baking. This is perfect for fall!
- S’mores Pizza: After baking, top the cinnamon sugar pizza with mini marshmallows and chocolate chips. Broil for a few seconds until the marshmallows are golden brown and the chocolate is melted. This is a fun and festive treat for summer barbecues!
My husband loves the Nutella pizza, the kids are obsessed with the S’mores pizza, and I’m partial to the apple pie version.
I’d love to hear how you make this cinnamon sugar pizza your own! What toppings do you add? What variations have you tried? Share your creations with me in the comments below!
I hope you enjoy making this cinnamon sugar pizza recipe as much as my family and I do. May your kitchen be filled with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and sugar, and may your hearts be filled with joy and laughter. Happy baking, my friend!
PrintEasy Cinnamon Sugar Pizza : 10 Amazing Steps
This easy cinnamon sugar pizza recipe is a quick and delicious treat that’s perfect for a party, snack, or even dessert! It’s simple to make and only requires a few ingredients.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 20
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 can (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- Optional: Cream cheese frosting for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Unroll pizza dough onto a greased baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Brush melted butter evenly over the dough.
- In a small bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crust is cooked through.
- Let cool slightly before slicing.
- Drizzle with cream cheese frosting if desired.
- Cut into slices and serve.
- Enjoy your Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pizza!
Notes
For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar mixture. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.