Cinnamon Dessert Pizza Recipe: A Sweet, Cozy Treat for Any Season

By:

Sophie Lark

April 28, 2025

Close-up of a cinnamon dessert pizza with crumble topping and vanilla glaze drizzle on a pizza pan.

Introduction: A Slice of Nostalgia

Growing up in an Italian-American household, desserts were always something special. My grandmother had a knack for turning even the most ordinary ingredients into magic, and one of my fondest memories is of her experimenting with dessert pizzas. Although classic tiramisu and cannoli graced our table regularly, sometimes, especially during cozy Sunday afternoons, a dessert pizza recipe would steal the show — its warm, cinnamon-sweet aroma filling the kitchen.

Inspired by those treasured afternoons, I’m excited to share with you this easy, mouthwatering Cinnamon Dessert Pizza Recipe — a modern twist on an old-fashioned love for simple, cozy desserts. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or a winter gathering, this sweet pizza is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!


Why You’ll Love This Dessert Pizza Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Flexible Ingredients: Homemade or store-bought dough works!
  • Year-Round Favorite: Perfectly cozy for winter, yet light enough for summer.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit for kids and adults alike.

Pro Tip: Customize the toppings to suit holidays and special occasions — try adding apple slices in the fall or festive sprinkles during Christmas!


Ingredients for the Best Cinnamon Dessert Pizza

You’ll need simple pantry staples:

  • 1 unbaked pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ cup softened butter (vegan butter optional)
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1½ tablespoons milk (any variety)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a pizza pan with oil or nonstick spray.

2. Roll the Dough

Roll the dough into a 12-inch circle and gently place it on the prepared pizza pan.

3. Make the Crumble Topping

In a medium bowl, combine:

  • Flour
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Softened butter

Mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.

Tip: Use your fingers for an old-school touch — it’s faster and blends better!

4. Top and Bake

Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the pizza dough.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the edges are golden and the topping is slightly crisp.

5. Create the Sweet Drizzle

In another bowl, whisk together:

  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract
  • Milk

Adjust the consistency as needed. You want a smooth, pourable glaze.

6. Drizzle and Serve

While the pizza is still warm, drizzle the glaze generously over the top.
Slice into 8 pieces and serve immediately. Enjoy!


Variations and Add-Ons

Want to elevate your dessert pizza recipe? Here are some fun ideas:

  • Caramel Drizzle: Add a second layer of rich caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
  • Fruit Toppings: Thinly sliced apples, peaches, or strawberries make a great topping.
  • Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the crumble before baking.
  • Chocolate Swirl: Melt some chocolate chips and drizzle alongside the vanilla glaze.

Tips for the Perfect Dessert Pizza Every Time

  1. Use a pizza stone if you have one — it creates a crispier crust.
  2. Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the pizza at the 15-minute mark.
  3. Customize your glaze: For a richer flavor, substitute maple syrup for part of the milk.
  4. Reheat like a pro: Use a toaster oven to keep the crust crispy when reheating leftovers.

Perfect Pairings

  • Coffee: A strong espresso or cinnamon latte.
  • Ice Cream: Vanilla bean or butter pecan.
  • Wines: Try a late harvest Riesling or a Moscato.

Serving Idea: Set up a DIY dessert pizza bar at your next gathering and let everyone decorate their slice!


Common Questions About Dessert Pizza

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can bake the crust and crumble topping ahead, but save the glaze for the last minute for best results.

Is this recipe vegan?

It can easily be made vegan by using dairy-free butter and plant-based milk.

How do I store leftovers?

Store tightly wrapped slices at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.


Final Thoughts: A Cinnamon Dream You’ll Keep Coming Back To

Few things bring people together like good food, and this dessert pizza recipe is no exception. It’s nostalgic, comforting, and endlessly customizable — just like the best family recipes should be. Whether you’re making it for a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or simply a cozy night at home, it’s sure to be a new favorite in your kitchen.

Don’t forget to share your creations with me in the comments — and if you add your own twist to the recipe, I’d love to hear it!


A Brief History of Dessert Pizzas

Believe it or not, the concept of dessert pizzas has roots dating back to ancient Rome. Early Roman flatbreads were often topped with honey, dates, and nuts — making them more of a sweet snack than a savory meal. Fast forward to America in the 20th century, and dessert pizzas gained popularity through buffet chains, where cinnamon-sugar crusts became a must-have.

Today, the dessert pizza recipe world is booming — from gourmet restaurants offering artisan versions to home cooks baking sweet pizzas with everything from Nutella to mascarpone cheese. This Cinnamon Dessert Pizza remains a tribute to the simple, heartwarming origins of this sweet trend.


Seasonal Twists for Your Cinnamon Dessert Pizza Recipe

Adapt your dessert pizza recipe to fit every season:

Spring

  • Top with fresh strawberries, blueberries, and a hint of lemon zest for a bright, fruity version.
  • A lavender glaze can add floral notes perfect for garden parties.

Summer

  • Go tropical with pineapple chunks and toasted coconut flakes.
  • Serve with a scoop of homemade coconut ice cream.

Fall

  • Add sautéed cinnamon apples or pumpkin spice crumble.
  • Pair with warm apple cider for the coziest fall dessert.

Winter

  • Dust the top with crushed peppermint candies and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
  • Serve alongside hot chocolate topped with marshmallows.

Pro Tip: Always match your spices with the season — a touch of nutmeg or cloves in winter brings magical holiday warmth!


How to Make a Gluten-Free or Healthier Cinnamon Dessert Pizza

For those looking to indulge a little more mindfully:

  • Gluten-Free Dough: Substitute with a certified gluten-free pizza crust, like one made with almond or rice flour.
  • Natural Sweeteners: Swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar or honey.
  • Vegan Butter: Easily used for both vegan and dairy-free diets.
  • Whole Wheat Flour: You can use a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for the crumble for more fiber.

Bonus: Add a sprinkle of chia seeds or hemp hearts on top for a boost of omega-3s!


Fun Kid-Friendly Activities with Dessert Pizza

Get the whole family involved with these adorable ideas:

  • Decorate Your Own Slice: Set up mini bowls of sprinkles, fruit, and chocolate chips so kids can create their masterpiece.
  • Shape It Up: Roll your dough into fun shapes — hearts, stars, or initials!
  • Colorful Glazes: Tint your glaze naturally with fruit purees like strawberry (pink) or blueberry (purple).
  • Storytelling Party: Each slice represents a part of a “sweet” story kids can create as they decorate!

This transforms your dessert pizza recipe from a dish into a full family experience.


Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even the simplest recipes can have hiccups. Here’s how to fix them:

ProblemSolution
Crust too soggyMake sure your dough is pre-baked for 5 minutes before adding toppings if using a very wet dough.
Crumble melting too muchChill the crumble briefly before baking to keep it textured.
Glaze too runnyAdd a tablespoon more powdered sugar at a time until thick enough.
Crust too hardAvoid overbaking and use a pizza pan instead of a stone for softer results.

Expert Tips for Professional Results

  • Use room-temperature butter for the crumble for the best texture.
  • Chill your dough briefly if your kitchen is warm — it helps prevent stretching and tears.
  • Double the glaze if you’re a fan of super-sweet desserts!
  • Store extra crumble in the freezer and sprinkle it over oatmeal, muffins, or yogurt bowls.

Nutritional Snapshot (Approximate per slice)

  • Calories: 280
  • Fat: 11g
  • Carbs: 42g
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Protein: 3g

Note: Nutrition varies based on dough type and optional toppings.


External Helpful Links (More Added)


Reader Challenge 🎉

If you try this dessert pizza recipe, post a picture and tag me on social media!
I love seeing all the creative spins people put on it — bonus points if you invent a new seasonal version!


Final Words: Dessert Pizza Bliss Awaits

The beauty of this Cinnamon Dessert Pizza lies not just in its comforting flavors but in its versatility. It’s a simple, soul-satisfying dessert that invites creativity, brings people together, and reminds us that sometimes, the sweetest moments in life are also the simplest.

Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s make some delicious memories together!


Sliced cinnamon dessert pizza topped with crumbly cinnamon-sugar topping and drizzled with vanilla glaze on a silver pizza pan.

Creative Ways to Serve Cinnamon Dessert Pizza

Want to take your dessert pizza recipe up a notch? Here are creative serving ideas to wow your guests (or treat yourself):

1. Serve “A La Mode”

Top a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream — classic and heavenly.

2. Mini Dessert Pizzas

Divide the dough into smaller circles and create personal-sized pizzas. Perfect for kids or parties!

3. Pizza “Wedges” with Dips

Slice the pizza into thin wedges and serve with sweet dips:

  • Chocolate ganache
  • Fruit coulis
  • Caramel sauce

4. Brunch Dessert Table Star

Pair it with breakfast items like yogurt parfaits, waffles, and fresh fruit for a stunning brunch spread.

Bonus Idea: Dust with edible gold flakes for a touch of glamour at events!


Hosting a DIY Dessert Pizza Party

Why stop at one pizza when you can create an entire dessert pizza party?

How to set it up:

  • Offer a few different bases: classic dough, gluten-free dough, even cookie crusts!
  • Provide bowls of toppings: cinnamon crumble, chocolate chips, sliced bananas, marshmallows, sprinkles.
  • Offer multiple glazes: vanilla, chocolate, and caramel.
  • Set out cute pizza cutters and plates for easy serving.

🎉 This is perfect for birthday parties, baby showers, and casual get-togethers!

Pro tip: Have everyone name their creation and vote for the “most creative” or “most delicious” dessert pizza!


Best Desserts to Pair with Cinnamon Dessert Pizza

Create a full dessert bar with complementary treats:

  • Mini Cheesecakes: Light and creamy alongside a crumbly pizza.
  • Fruit Kabobs: Fresh, juicy, and balances the sweetness.
  • Coffee Bar: Offer espresso shots, lattes, and hot chocolate for a cozy vibe.
  • Milkshakes: Fun for kids and adults alike — vanilla, chocolate, or cinnamon-flavored shakes pair beautifully!

Special Occasion Ideas

Make your Cinnamon Dessert Pizza a centerpiece for special moments:

OccasionSpecial Touches
Birthday PartyAdd colorful sprinkles and birthday candles!
ChristmasUse red and green colored icing and peppermint pieces.
Valentine’s DayShape into a heart and top with strawberries.
HalloweenDrizzle with orange and black icing, top with candy eyes!
Baby ShowerUse pastel-colored glazes and edible glitter.

💡 Remember: It’s easy to customize this dessert pizza recipe to match any theme with just a few tweaks!


FAQs: Everything You Need to Know

Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough?

Absolutely! Puff pastry will make it flakier and more delicate. Adjust baking time to around 12–15 minutes.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Pre-bake the crust for 5 minutes before adding the crumble, especially if your dough is very moist.

Can I freeze dessert pizza?

You can freeze the baked crust (without the glaze) for up to 1 month. Add fresh glaze when serving.

What toppings should I avoid?

Avoid very wet fruits (like melon or very ripe berries) unless you pre-cook and drain them — too much moisture can make your dessert pizza soggy.


Quick Printable Recipe (Summary Version)

🍕 Cinnamon Dessert Pizza Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 unbaked pizza crust
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ cup softened butter
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 1½ tbsp milk

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Roll dough into 12″ circle and place on pan.
  3. Mix flour, sugars, cinnamon, butter to create crumble.
  4. Sprinkle crumble over dough.
  5. Bake 15–20 min until golden.
  6. Whisk powdered sugar, vanilla, milk for glaze.
  7. Drizzle glaze over warm pizza. Slice and serve!

Let’s Connect! 💬

Did you try this dessert pizza recipe?
I’d love to hear how it turned out!

  • Did you add a creative twist?
  • What special occasion did you make it for?
  • Any fun toppings you recommend?

👇 Leave a comment below and share your sweet success! 👇

You can also tag your photos with #CinnamonDessertPizza on Instagram — let’s inspire each other with our delicious creations!

Print
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Close-up of a cinnamon dessert pizza with crumble topping and vanilla glaze drizzle on a pizza pan.

Cinnamon Dessert Pizza Recipe


  • Author: Sophie Lark
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

Learn how to make a delicious cinnamon dessert pizza with a sweet crumble topping and vanilla glaze. Perfect for parties, brunches, and cozy evenings!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 unbaked pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

  • ⅓ cup brown sugar (light or dark)

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • ¼ cup softened butter (vegan butter optional)

  • ¾ cup powdered sugar

  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

  • 1½ tablespoons milk (any variety)


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly coat a pizza pan with oil or nonstick spray.

  2. Roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle and place on the prepared pizza pan.

  3. Prepare the crumble topping: In a bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter. Combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  4. Top the dough evenly with the crumble mixture.

  5. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the crumble is lightly crisp.

  6. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Adjust the consistency if needed.

  7. Drizzle glaze over the warm pizza, slice, and serve immediately.

Notes

For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding the crumble.

Add toppings like chopped nuts, caramel drizzle, or sliced apples for variations.

This recipe can be made vegan and gluten-free with easy substitutions.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of pizza)
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 160mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: dessert pizza recipe, cinnamon dessert pizza, sweet pizza, dessert pizza, easy dessert recipes