Description
Cinnamon Sugar Dessert Pizza
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup warm milk
2 tbsp melted butter
For the Topping:
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp cinnamon
2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add warm milk and melted butter, knead into a soft dough. Roll out into a pizza shape and place on a baking sheet. Brush with melted butter, then sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, and granulated sugar evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
For the glaze, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the warm pizza. Slice and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the warm milk and melted butter. Use a fork to combine, then turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 3-4 minutes until a soft, smooth dough forms. Avoid over-kneading.
2. Shape the Base: Roll the dough into a ball and let it rest for 5 minutes. On a piece of parchment paper, roll it out into a circle or rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick. The rustic, uneven edges are part of the charm. Transfer the parchment with the dough directly onto your baking sheet.
3. Apply the Topping: Brush the entire surface evenly with the 1/4 cup of melted butter, leaving a small border. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture uniformly over the buttered dough.
4. Bake: Place in the preheated 400°F oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes. Watch closely after the 10-minute mark—it’s done when the edges are golden brown and the sugar is bubbly.
5. Glaze and Serve: While the pizza bakes, whisk the glaze ingredients until completely smooth. Let the baked pizza cool for 2-3 minutes, then drizzle the glaze over the top using a spoon or piping bag. Slice into wedges or squares.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dessert pizza warm for the best experience. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side is highly recommended. For a festive touch, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the glaze. It pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.
How-to Summary
Quickly mix a simple dough from flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and butter. Roll it out, brush with butter, and top with a cinnamon-sugar blend. Bake until golden, then finish with a vanilla glaze drizzle for a fast, shareable dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before rolling.
My dough is too sticky. What should I do? Gradually add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, while kneading until it becomes manageable. The dough should be soft but not stick to your hands.
Can I use a store-bought pizza crust? Absolutely. A pre-made flatbread or refrigerated pizza dough works well. Simply follow the topping and baking instructions, adjusting bake time as needed.
How should I store leftovers? Store cooled slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the oven or toaster oven to restore crispness.
Can I add fruit to this pizza? Thinly sliced apples or pears are a great addition. Arrange them over the dough before adding the cinnamon-sugar topping.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overworking the Dough: This makes it tough. Knead just until smooth.
- Uneven Butter Application: Brush butter evenly to prevent dry patches that won’t hold the sugar.
- Overbaking: The pizza can go from perfect to burnt quickly. Set a timer and check early.
- Glazing While Too Hot: If the pizza is piping hot, the glaze will melt and disappear. A brief 2-3 minute cool-down is ideal.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Sugar Dessert Pizza is a wonderfully simple and crowd-pleasing treat that transforms basic pantry staples into something special. With its soft, cake-like base, caramelized cinnamon-sugar topping, and sweet glaze, it’s a versatile dessert perfect for any casual gathering. By following the detailed steps and tips, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and achieve perfect results every time. Enjoy the process and the delicious, shareable outcome!