If you’re looking for a deliciously unique dessert that combines the warm comfort of cinnamon and sugar with the irresistible appeal of pizza, look no further than Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza. This delightful treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or serving as a crowd-pleasing dessert at your next gathering.
What is Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza?
Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza is a scrumptious twist on traditional pizza. Instead of the usual savory toppings, this dessert pizza features a sweet, buttery cinnamon-sugar mixture spread over a golden-brown pizza crust. Finished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a drizzle of icing, it’s a dessert that offers a delightful balance of sweetness and spice, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
To make Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Pizza Dough: Store-bought or homemade
- Butter: Softened, for spreading
- Granulated Sugar: For the sweet base
- Ground Cinnamon: To add that classic cinnamon flavor
- Powdered Sugar: For a finishing touch
- Icing: Optional, for drizzling
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the crust will bake up perfectly crisp and golden.
- Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a round or rectangular shape, depending on your preference and baking sheet size.
- Transfer to Baking Sheet: Place the rolled-out dough onto a baking sheet or pizza stone.
Create the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping
- Spread Butter: Using a pastry brush, evenly spread a layer of softened butter over the surface of the dough.
- Mix Sugar and Cinnamon: In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar with ground cinnamon. The ratio is typically 1 cup of sugar to 2 tablespoons of cinnamon, but adjust to taste.
- Sprinkle Mixture: Generously sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough, ensuring even coverage.
Bake and Finish
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the topping is bubbly.
- Cool: Once baked, allow the Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza to cool slightly before transferring to a cutting board.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: For an extra touch of sweetness, dust the cooled pizza with powdered sugar.
- Drizzle with Icing: If desired, drizzle with icing made from powdered sugar and a little milk or water.
Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza
- Dough Thickness: For a thinner, crisper crust, roll out the dough more thinly. For a chewier crust, leave it slightly thicker.
- Even Topping: Ensure an even layer of butter and cinnamon-sugar to achieve a consistent flavor throughout.
- Customizations: Add a sprinkle of nuts or a few fresh fruit slices before baking for added texture and flavor variations.
Serving Suggestions
Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert, or enjoy it on its own with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s also a delightful treat for breakfast or brunch, providing a sweet start to your day.
Why You’ll Love Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza
This Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza combines the best elements of sweet and savory into one easy-to-make dessert. Its simple ingredients and quick preparation make it a go-to recipe for busy days or spontaneous gatherings. Plus, the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Serving and Storage Tips for Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza
Serving Tips
- Warm or Room Temperature: Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza is delicious whether served warm from the oven or at room temperature. If serving warm, let it cool for a few minutes before cutting to avoid burning your fingers.
- Cutting: Use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife to cut the pizza into slices. For a more elegant presentation, you can also cut it into small squares or wedges.
- Accompaniments: Enhance the dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. Fresh fruit like strawberries or apples can add a refreshing contrast.
- Presentation: Dust with additional powdered sugar right before serving to add a touch of elegance. If using icing, drizzle it over the top in a decorative pattern for a visually appealing finish.
Storage Tips
- Cooling: Allow the Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation and keeps the crust from becoming soggy.
- Wrapping: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out.
- Refrigeration: Keep the pizza in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within 3-4 days. This helps preserve its flavor and texture.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy leftover pizza, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a toaster oven for a quicker option. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can make the crust chewy and less enjoyable.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza stays delicious and ready to enjoy whenever you crave a sweet treat.
1. Can I use a pre-made pizza crust for Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza?
Yes, you can absolutely use a pre-made pizza crust for this recipe. Store-bought pizza dough or even pre-baked pizza crusts can save you time and effort. Just spread the butter and cinnamon-sugar mixture over the pre-made crust and bake as directed.
2. Can I make Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza ahead of time. Bake it and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for a day or two, or refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.
3. Can I add other toppings to Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza?
Certainly! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Some popular additions include chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts), a sprinkle of coarse sea salt, or even a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. Fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries can also be a delicious and complementary addition.
4. How do I make the icing for Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza?
To make a simple icing, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of milk or water. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk for a thinner icing or more powdered sugar for a thicker one. Drizzle over the cooled pizza for a sweet finishing touch.