Cinnamon Sugar Pizza

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There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of cinnamon and sugar baking in the oven—it brings back memories of childhood and cozy weekends at home. That’s exactly what inspired me to make this Cinnamon Sugar Pizza. It’s the perfect hybrid of a dessert and a warm, doughy treat that you didn’t know you needed in your life. Soft pizza crust meets the rich buttery blend of cinnamon and sugar, topped off with a drizzle of creamy icing that pulls the whole experience together.

I like to think of this recipe as a crowd-pleasing twist on a cinnamon roll, but in a shareable, sliceable form. Whether I’m hosting friends or looking for a comforting weeknight dessert, this cinnamon sugar pizza is always met with excitement—and usually gone in minutes. It’s quick to make, infinitely satisfying, and it smells like heaven while it’s baking.

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Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Sugar Pizza

• Fast & Easy: Uses simple ingredients and takes minimal prep.
• Comforting Flavors: Cinnamon, butter, and sugar are a guaranteed win.
• Perfect for Sharing: Just like a regular pizza, slice it up for family or guests.
• Customizable: Make it with store-bought dough or go homemade, add toppings like nuts or caramel drizzle.
• Kid-Approved: Sweet enough to be a treat, simple enough to appeal to picky eaters.

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What Kind of Dough Should I Use for Cinnamon Sugar Pizza?

This is one of the best parts about making Cinnamon Sugar Pizza—you’ve got options. I usually go with a classic pizza dough because I love that soft, chewy bite it gives beneath the sugary topping. You can use a store-bought dough to save time, or make a simple homemade dough if you’re feeling more hands-on. If you’re short on time, even crescent roll dough or biscuit dough can work in a pinch. Just keep in mind that different doughs will give slightly different textures—pizza dough gives you that ideal, bakery-style base.

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Options for Substitutions

Don’t worry if you’re missing a few ingredients; there are plenty of ways to tweak this dessert to match your pantry:

• Dough Substitutes: Try crescent roll dough, puff pastry, or even flatbread for a quicker, flakier alternative.
• Butter Alternatives: You can use margarine, coconut oil, or a plant-based butter for dairy-free options.
• Sugar Options: Brown sugar adds depth, while coconut sugar brings a light caramel note. White sugar works just fine, too.
• Cinnamon Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for an extra layer of flavor.
• Glaze Swaps: No powdered sugar? Mix Greek yogurt with a little honey for a creamy drizzle, or use a cream cheese frosting.

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Ingredients for This Cinnamon Sugar Pizza

Each ingredient in this Cinnamon Sugar Pizza has a clear and delicious role to play. Here’s what makes this dessert irresistible:

• Pizza Dough: The foundation. It should be soft, pliable, and bake up golden brown with a chewy center. Whether homemade or store-bought, this is your canvas.
• Unsalted Butter: Melted and brushed over the dough, it helps the cinnamon sugar stick and creates that rich, buttery base flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Paired with cinnamon, this gives the pizza its signature sweet crunch and golden topping.
• Ground Cinnamon: The star spice. It adds warmth and depth, making every bite taste nostalgic and cozy.
• Powdered Sugar: Used for the glaze, it dissolves into a smooth, sweet drizzle that ties everything together.
• Milk or Cream: Just a splash is needed to create a pourable icing. The richness complements the sugary topping.
• Vanilla Extract: A tiny amount in the glaze gives it that bakery-quality aroma and flavor.

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Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Roll out your pizza dough into a 10–12 inch circle on a lightly floured surface. Transfer it to a baking sheet or pizza stone. If you like a crispier bottom, preheat the stone in the oven before placing the dough on it.

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Step 2: Brush with Butter

Melt the butter and generously brush it all over the surface of the dough. Make sure to get the edges too—they’ll turn golden and flavorful.

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Step 3: Add the Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough. Don’t be shy—cover it completely so every bite is loaded with flavor.

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Step 4: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the sugar looks bubbly and slightly caramelized.

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Step 5: Make the Glaze

While the pizza bakes, whisk together powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and a few drops of vanilla extract until smooth. You want a consistency that drizzles easily but isn’t runny.

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Step 6: Drizzle and Serve

Once the pizza is out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze across the top in zig-zag or swirl patterns. Slice and serve warm for maximum deliciousness.

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How Long to Cook the Cinnamon Sugar Pizza

The baking time for Cinnamon Sugar Pizza is relatively quick—about 12 to 15 minutes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Keep an eye on it toward the end: the edges should turn golden brown, and the cinnamon sugar topping will bubble and slightly caramelize. If you’re using a thinner crust or a different dough type (like puff pastry), you might need slightly less time—around 10 minutes.

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Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Pizza

• Preheat Your Oven: Always make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. It helps the crust cook evenly and crisp up just right.
• Don’t Overload with Sugar: A generous sprinkle is great, but too much can cause the topping to burn or get overly gooey.
• Watch the Crust: If your crust is browning too quickly but the center isn’t done, tent it loosely with foil to prevent burning.
• Cool Before Drizzling: Let the pizza cool for 5 minutes before adding the glaze so it doesn’t melt completely and disappear.
• Use Fresh Cinnamon: It makes a big difference in flavor. Spices lose potency over time—fresh ground cinnamon gives the best warmth and aroma.
• Edge Buttering: Brushing butter on the edges gives you that bakery-style glossy finish and boosts flavor.
• Serve Warm: This dessert tastes best fresh and warm, when the crust is still soft and the glaze slightly melts into the topping.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple dessert like Cinnamon Sugar Pizza can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here are the common pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the Preheat: Putting dough into a cold oven results in an uneven bake. Always wait until your oven is fully preheated.
• Too Much Topping: Overloading with cinnamon sugar can cause a sticky, burned layer rather than a crisp, caramelized topping.
• Underbaking: A pale crust means it’s not fully cooked. Make sure the bottom is slightly golden and firm to the touch.
• Adding Glaze Too Soon: If the pizza is too hot, the glaze will melt right in and lose its visual appeal.
• Using Cold Dough: Cold dough can shrink or bake unevenly. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out.

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What to Serve With Cinnamon Sugar Pizza?

1. Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of vanilla ice cream on a warm slice is pure magic. The contrast between cold and hot is unbeatable.

2. Caramel Sauce

Drizzle a little over the top for an extra gooey treat. Salted caramel is especially great for balance.

3. Fresh Berries

Add a pop of color and tartness. Raspberries or strawberries pair wonderfully with cinnamon.

4. Whipped Cream

Light and airy, it adds a nice creamy texture without being overly sweet.

5. Chai or Spiced Tea

A cozy drink that complements the warm spices in the pizza perfectly.

6. Coffee or Espresso

A bold coffee cuts through the sweetness and enhances the cinnamon flavor.

7. Chocolate Drizzle

Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle for a rich, decadent twist.

8. Maple Syrup

For a brunch-style vibe, a small pour of maple syrup brings comforting breakfast flavors.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), Cinnamon Sugar Pizza stores pretty well. Here’s how to keep it tasting great:

• Room Temperature: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure the container is fully sealed to prevent the dough from drying out.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage (up to 5 days), place slices in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer to revive the texture.
• Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven for best results.
• Avoid Microwaving: It can make the crust rubbery. If you must, reheat in 10-second bursts and finish in the oven or toaster oven.

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Estimated Nutrition

Please note this is an approximation based on one slice out of an 8-slice pizza:

• Calories: ~240
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Sugar: 20g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g

These values will vary depending on the dough used and the amount of glaze added. For lighter versions, consider using less sugar or a low-fat butter alternative.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough?

Yes! Puff pastry will give you a flakier, crispier base—more like a cinnamon tart than a chewy pizza, but it’s delicious.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough and cinnamon sugar topping in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving for best results.

3. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely. The flavors are simple and sweet, and kids love the idea of dessert pizza. Let them help with the glaze!

4. How do I make this dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter and a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk for the glaze. It still turns out rich and tasty.

5. Can I add nuts or toppings?

Yes! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even mini chocolate chips make great additions. Sprinkle them over the cinnamon sugar before baking.

6. Does this need to be refrigerated?

Not immediately. It’s fine on the counter for a couple of days, but refrigerate for longer storage or warmer climates.

7. Can I use whole wheat dough?

Yes, though the flavor will be nuttier and the texture denser. It’s a great option if you want a heartier dessert.

8. Can I skip the glaze?

You can, but the glaze adds a sweet finishing touch. If you’re watching sugar, a light dusting of powdered sugar works too.

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Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Pizza is that perfect mash-up of simplicity and indulgence—soft, buttery crust with warm cinnamon sugar and a silky glaze on top. It’s a recipe I always keep in my back pocket for those spontaneous dessert cravings or easy hosting wins. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you get a sliceable treat that’s nostalgic, fun, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re serving kids, friends, or just treating yourself, this sweet pizza never disappoints.

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