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This cinnamon-sugar pizza transforms ordinary pizza dough into a decadent dessert that tastes like a giant cinnamon roll. Perfect for weekend brunches or an after-dinner treat when you're craving something sweet but don't want to fuss with complicated recipes.
I created this recipe when my kids were begging for cinnamon rolls but I didn't have hours to wait for dough to rise. This quick alternative has become our Sunday morning tradition, with everyone gathering in the kitchen as the sweet cinnamon aroma fills the house.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base for our pizza crust giving it structure while remaining tender
- Baking powder: Creates a slight rise in our quick dough making it light rather than dense
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create that golden brown crust we all love
- Brown sugar: Contains molasses which gives a deeper caramel flavor than regular sugar
- Cinnamon: Is the star spice look for fresh Ceylon cinnamon for the best subtle flavor
- Powdered sugar: Creates a smooth glaze that hardens slightly for the perfect finishing touch
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the simple glaze use pure extract for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Set your oven to 375°F and ensure it reaches full temperature before baking. This crucial temperature allows the crust to bake properly while caramelizing the sugar topping. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking as the sugar caramelizes.
- Mix the Dough:
- Combine dry ingredients first whisking thoroughly to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt. Pour in milk and melted butter using a fork to gently combine until no dry spots remain. The dough should feel soft but not sticky. Dust your work surface with a little flour before rolling the dough into a 10-12 inch circle keeping the thickness even throughout.
- Spread the Topping:
- Brush melted butter all the way to the edges ensuring complete coverage. This butter layer creates the perfect base for the cinnamon sugar to stick to and helps create a crisp exterior. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon until no lumps remain then sprinkle in an even layer over the buttered dough leaving a small border around the edge.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the pizza in the center of your preheated oven and bake for exactly 12-15 minutes. Watch carefully during the last few minutes as the sugar can quickly go from perfectly caramelized to burnt. The edges should be golden brown and the center should look set but still slightly soft.
- Mix the Glaze:
- Whisk powdered sugar milk and vanilla extract in a small bowl until completely smooth. The consistency should be thick enough to hold its shape momentarily when drizzled from a spoon but thin enough to spread slowly. Add more milk a few drops at a time if needed to reach the right consistency.
- Drizzle and Serve:
- While the pizza is still warm but not piping hot drizzle the glaze in a zigzag pattern across the entire surface. The warmth will help the glaze spread slightly without completely melting. Slice into wedges using a pizza cutter and serve immediately while the contrast between the crisp crust and gooey topping is at its peak.
My favorite part of this recipe is watching the cinnamon sugar transform as it bakes. The first time I made this for my family's holiday brunch, my usually stoic father-in-law asked for seconds and then quietly requested I make it again the next morning. Now it's our special thing whenever he visits.
Make-Ahead Options
This cinnamon sugar pizza works beautifully as a make-ahead treat. You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature about 30 minutes before you plan to roll it out. You can also completely bake the pizza ahead of time but wait to add the glaze until just before serving. Reheat the baked pizza in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes to restore the crisp texture then add fresh glaze for the perfect finish.
Creative Variations
The basic cinnamon sugar pizza is delicious on its own but consider it a canvas for your creativity. Add thinly sliced apples between the butter and cinnamon sugar layers for an apple pie version. Sprinkle chopped pecans walnuts or almonds over the cinnamon sugar before baking for added crunch and nutty flavor. For a chocolate lover's dream drizzle with chocolate ganache instead of vanilla glaze or add mini chocolate chips before baking. During fall months pumpkin spice can replace traditional cinnamon for a seasonal twist.
Serving Suggestions
While this cinnamon sugar pizza is perfect on its own it reaches new heights when served with complementary sides. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on a warm slice creates an incredible temperature contrast. Fresh berries particularly strawberries or raspberries add a bright fresh element that balances the sweetness. For brunch serve alongside a savory egg dish and fresh fruit for a balanced meal. Coffee particularly a rich dark roast provides the perfect bitter counterpoint to the sweet pizza.
Perfect Crust Tips
The key to this recipe's success lies in how you handle the crust. When mixing the dough avoid overworking it which can make it tough. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients come together. When rolling the dough aim for even thickness throughout approximately 1/4 inch thickness works perfectly. If the dough springs back while rolling let it rest for 5 minutes then try again. The rolled edges tend to cook faster than the center so consider creating a slightly raised edge by folding or pinching the perimeter to create a barrier that keeps the sweet filling contained.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe! It saves time and still delivers a delicious crust.
- → What can I use instead of brown sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use granulated sugar mixed with a bit of molasses, or just regular sugar in a pinch.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Warm them slightly before serving for the best texture.
- → Can I add toppings like nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or even mini chocolate chips before baking for extra flavor and texture.
- → What’s a good substitute for vanilla in the glaze?
If you don’t have vanilla extract, try almond extract or even a splash of maple syrup for a unique twist.