Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza Made with Crescent Rolls

This cinnamon sugar crescent pizza transforms simple store-bought dough into a mouthwatering dessert that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of warm cinnamon. Perfect for those moments when you need a quick sweet treat but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen.

I first made this cinnamon sugar pizza when my nieces and nephews were visiting for a weekend sleepover. The look of pure joy on their faces when I served it warm for breakfast sealed its spot in our family favorites collection. Now it's requested at nearly every family gathering.

Ingredients

• 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough: Provides the perfect flaky base without any fuss. Look for butter flavored varieties for extra richness.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Creates that golden crust and helps the cinnamon sugar adhere. Make sure it's fully melted but not too hot.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Brings the sweetness. Regular white sugar works perfectly here.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The star flavor. Fresh cinnamon makes a noticeable difference in aroma and taste.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Forms the base of the glaze. Sift it first to avoid lumps.
• 1 tablespoon milk: Thins the glaze to drizzling consistency. Whole milk creates the richest glaze.
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth to the glaze. Pure vanilla extract provides the best flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Crust:

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Unroll both cans of crescent dough and arrange the triangles on a pizza pan with points directed toward the center. The magic happens when you press those seams together firmly to create one cohesive crust. Spend an extra minute making sure there are no gaps or the butter will leak through.

Add the Buttery Base:

Brush melted butter generously over every inch of the dough surface. This step is crucial for both flavor and for helping the cinnamon sugar mixture stick properly. I like to use a silicone brush to ensure even coverage all the way to the edges.

Create the Cinnamon Sugar Layer:

Combine granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl until completely mixed. The mixture should have a uniform color with no streaks. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough surface, covering it completely. A light touch creates better distribution than dumping it all at once.

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Slide your pizza into the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You want the edges to turn a beautiful golden brown while the center becomes fully cooked. The cinnamon sugar will form a slight crust on top that provides wonderful texture contrast.

Prepare the Sweet Glaze:

While the pizza bakes, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until completely smooth. The consistency should be thick enough to hold its shape briefly when drizzled but thin enough to pour easily. Add extra milk a few drops at a time if needed to achieve the right consistency.

Finish with the Glaze:

Remove the hot pizza from the oven and immediately drizzle the glaze over the top in a zigzag pattern. The heat will help the glaze spread slightly and partially set. Let it cool for just 3 to 5 minutes before slicing to allow the glaze to set up a bit.

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My favorite thing about this recipe is how the edges of the crescent dough get extra crispy while the center stays soft and tender. My grandmother always said good cinnamon treats should fill the house with their scent before you even taste them, and this pizza absolutely delivers on that promise.

Storage Suggestions

This cinnamon sugar pizza tastes best when freshly baked and still slightly warm. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The texture changes slightly as it sits, with the crust becoming softer. To refresh leftover slices, warm them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes or give them a quick 10-second zap in the microwave.

Make It Your Own

While the classic version is delicious on its own, this recipe welcomes your personal touch. Try adding thinly sliced apples or pears before baking for a fruit-filled variation. Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon sugar layer for added crunch. For a more indulgent version, drizzle with caramel sauce in addition to the vanilla glaze. You can even add a teaspoon of orange zest to the glaze for a citrus twist that brightens the cinnamon flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

This versatile treat works wonderfully in multiple settings. Serve it alongside fresh fruit for a special weekend breakfast. Cut into small squares as part of a dessert buffet at parties. Pair warm slices with vanilla ice cream for an elevated dessert experience. It makes a perfect companion to coffee or hot chocolate on chilly mornings. For brunch gatherings, place it at the center of the table as a sweet counterpoint to savory dishes.

Perfect Pairings

The warm cinnamon flavors in this pizza pair beautifully with both hot and cold beverages. A strong cup of coffee balances the sweetness perfectly. Creamy hot chocolate makes for a decadent combination that children especially love. For adults, consider serving with a glass of late harvest Riesling or a cup of chai tea which both complement the cinnamon notes. During fall and winter months, warm apple cider makes an excellent accompaniment that enhances the cozy feeling this treat brings.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure the crescent roll dough forms a pizza crust?

Unroll the crescent roll dough and arrange triangles on a pizza pan with points toward the center. Overlap and press the edges together to seal and shape the crust effectively.

→ Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze ahead of time. Simply store it in a sealed container in the fridge and whisk again before using to ensure smoothness.

→ What’s the best way to serve this dessert pizza?

Serve the dessert pizza warm to enjoy the buttery texture, melty glaze, and rich cinnamon flavor at its best.

→ Can I use other sugars or spices for the topping?

Yes, you can experiment with brown sugar or add spices like nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar topping for a unique twist.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I make this dish ahead for a gathering?

Yes, you can prepare the dough base and cinnamon sugar in advance. Bake closer to serving time and drizzle fresh glaze for the best presentation.