This cinnamon sugar dessert pizza is a soft, fluffy, oven-baked treat that combines a tender yeast dough with a buttery cinnamon-sugar topping. It’s sweet, comforting, and perfect for sharing, whether served warm for dessert or as a cozy afternoon bake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is simple to prepare yet feels special and indulgent. The dough bakes up light and pillowy, while the cinnamon sugar topping melts into a rich, fragrant layer. It uses basic pantry ingredients, requires no special equipment, and can be customized easily with glazes or toppings. It’s also a great option when you want something sweeter than bread but easier than a traditional cake.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the dough
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups all-purpose flour
For the cinnamon sugar topping
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Optional vanilla glaze
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 to 2 tablespoons milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, until foamy.
Add the vegetable oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 45 to 60 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a round baking pan or pizza pan.
Punch down the dough and press it evenly into the prepared pan, forming a round about 10 to 12 inches wide.
Brush the melted butter evenly over the dough. In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle it generously over the buttered dough.
Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the center is cooked through.
If using the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Drizzle over the warm pizza before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6 to 8 slices
Prep time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 45 to 60 minutes
Baking time: 15 to 18 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour 30 minutes
Variations
Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or almonds over the cinnamon sugar for extra crunch.
Mix a tablespoon of brown sugar into the topping for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
Drizzle with honey instead of glaze for a simpler finish.
Sprinkle raisins or finely chopped dates over the topping before baking for natural sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes or microwave briefly until soft and warm.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be prepared and refrigerated overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, instant yeast can be used in the same amount. You can skip the blooming step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
Is this dessert pizza very sweet?
It’s moderately sweet, with a balanced cinnamon flavor. You can reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer it less sweet.
Can I make this without a glaze?
Absolutely. The cinnamon sugar topping is flavorful on its own, and the glaze is optional.
What pan works best for this recipe?
A round pizza pan or a standard baking sheet works well. Just make sure it’s lightly greased.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can replace up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, though the texture will be slightly denser.
How do I know when it’s fully baked?
The edges should be lightly golden, and the center should feel set and no longer doughy.
Can I freeze this dessert pizza?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze baked slices for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven before serving.
What can I serve with cinnamon sugar dessert pizza?
It pairs well with tea, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla-flavored frozen dessert.
Can kids help make this recipe?
Yes, it’s a great recipe for kids to help with mixing, sprinkling the topping, and shaping the dough.
Conclusion
Cinnamon sugar dessert pizza is a comforting, shareable treat that’s easy to make and always satisfying. With its soft base and warm cinnamon flavor, it’s perfect for family gatherings, casual desserts, or anytime you’re craving something sweet and homemade.
A sweet and fluffy cinnamon sugar dessert pizza made with soft yeast dough and topped with melted butter, cinnamon sugar, and an optional vanilla glaze. Perfect for cozy dessert cravings or family-style sharing.
Ingredients
For the dough:
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups all-purpose flour
For the cinnamon sugar topping:
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Optional vanilla glaze:
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 to 2 tablespoons milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
In a large bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Add oil and salt, then gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
Turn out onto a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 45–60 minutes until doubled.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a round baking or pizza pan.
Punch down the dough and press it evenly into the prepared pan (10–12 inches wide).
Brush with melted butter. Mix sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the top.
Bake for 15–18 minutes until the edges are golden and the center is cooked through.
If using glaze, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Drizzle over warm pizza.
Slice and serve warm.
Notes
Use a thermometer to ensure water is warm enough to activate the yeast.
Customize with nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips.
The dough can be made ahead and chilled overnight.
Great for breakfast, dessert, or sweet snack time.
Let the pizza cool slightly before glazing for best texture.
