Did You Know 78% of Home Bakers Overcomplicate Dessert? Try This Easy Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza Instead!
There’s something magical about the way warm cinnamon and sugar melt together, isn’t there? Yet so many of us hesitate to make desserts from scratch, convinced they require hours of kneading, proofing, and complicated techniques. That’s where this Easy Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza with Crescent Rolls comes in – your golden ticket to impromptu sweetness that feels like a hug from Grandma’s kitchen.
I discovered this recipe during one of those “I need dessert NOW” evenings when my sweet tooth was raging but my energy was dwindling. As I stared into my nearly empty pantry, that trusty tube of crescent rolls winked at me from the fridge door. What unfolded was nothing short of alchemy – flaky, buttery layers transformed into a caramelized cinnamon masterpiece in less time than it takes to watch an episode of The Great British Bake Off.
This isn’t just another quick-fix recipe though. There’s real nostalgia baked into every bite. The moment that first whiff of toasting cinnamon hits your nostrils, you’ll be transported back to childhood mornings when Pop-Tarts were considered a balanced breakfast. Except this version? Infinitely more satisfying, with that homemade warmth no factory-sealed package could ever replicate.
What makes this dessert pizza so brilliant is how it turns perceived baking limitations into advantages. No fancy equipment? The crescent roll dough presses perfectly into any baking sheet. Short on time? From fridge to table in under 25 minutes. Worried about presentation? The rustic, crackly surface dusted with sparkling sugar is actually more charming than fussy pastry shop creations.
PrintCinnamon-Sugar Pizza made with Crescent Rolls
- Author: Trusted Blog
Description
A quick and easy dessert pizza made with crescent roll dough, topped with cinnamon-sugar and a sweet glaze.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent rolls
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Unroll the crescent dough and press it into a greased pizza pan or baking sheet, sealing any perforations.
- Brush the melted butter evenly over the dough. In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle it over the buttered dough.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly.
- In another bowl, whisk powdered sugar and milk until smooth to make the glaze. Drizzle over the warm pizza. Slice and serve.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.
Easy Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza with Crescent Rolls
There’s something magical about the way cinnamon and sugar melt together—especially when they’re draped over buttery, flaky crescent rolls. This recipe is my go-to when I want a sweet treat that feels indulgent but comes together in minutes. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or just because, this cinnamon-sugar pizza is pure comfort on a baking sheet.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent rolls – The shortcut hero of this recipe! I love using crescent rolls for their buttery layers, but you could also swap in puff pastry if you’re feeling fancy.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted – Use the good stuff here—real butter makes all the difference in creating that rich, golden crust.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Just the right amount to make every bite sweet but not overwhelming.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – Warm, cozy, and non-negotiable. If you’re a cinnamon lover like me, feel free to add an extra sprinkle!
- Pinch of salt – A tiny pinch balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Optional: Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream – Because everything is better à la mode, right?
Let’s Make It Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this keeps cleanup easy and prevents any sticky situations.
Step 2: Unroll & Arrange
Gently unroll the crescent dough onto your prepared baking sheet. If your dough comes in triangles, press the seams together to form one even rectangle. No perfection needed here—just make sure there aren’t any big gaps.
Step 3: Butter
It UpUsing a pastry brush (or the back of a spoon), spread the melted butter evenly over the dough. This is what gives our “pizza” that irresistible golden crispness, so don’t skimp!
Step 4: Cinnamon-Sugar Magic
In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Then, sprinkle this mixture generously over the buttered dough. Pro tip: Hold your hand high while sprinkling for the most even coverage!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza
Making this easy dessert is a breeze, but a few insider tricks will take it to the next level:
- Don’t over-unroll: Keep the crescent roll seams intact when pressing into the pan – this helps prevent tearing.
- Butter temperature matters: Use softened (not melted) butter for easiest spreading without tearing the dough.
- Even distribution: Mix your cinnamon and sugar together before sprinkling to prevent clumpy cinnamon spots.
- Watch closely: Ovens vary – start checking at 10 minutes to prevent over-browning.
Delicious Variations to Try
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to different tastes and occasions:
- Apple Pie Version: Add a layer of thinly sliced apples before the cinnamon-sugar topping
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the butter before baking
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Dot with softened cream cheese before adding topping
- Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips with the cinnamon sugar
What to Serve With Your Cinnamon Pizza
This treat shines as either a dessert or sweet breakfast option. Pair it with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert
- Fresh fruit salad for breakfast
- Whipped cream and berries for brunch
- A warm mug of spiced chai tea
- Cold milk for the kids (or kids at heart!)
Why This Recipe Works So Well
There’s a reason this has become a favorite in so many households:
- 5-minute prep: Literally faster than ordering delivery
- Pantry staples: Uses ingredients you likely already have
- Crowd-pleaser: Appeals to all ages from toddlers to grandparents
- Versatile: Works for breakfast, dessert, or midnight snack
- Beginner-friendly: Nearly impossible to mess up
Real-Life Tips From My Kitchen
After making this dozens of times, here’s what I’ve learned:
- Let the pizza cool for 5 minutes before slicing – it sets up better
- For extra crispness, bake directly on the oven rack instead of a pan
- Leftovers (if you have any!) reheat beautifully in a toaster oven
- Double the recipe in a sheet pan for potlucks – it disappears fast
- Kids love helping sprinkle the cinnamon sugar – embrace the mess!
Conclusion
This Easy Cinnamon-Sugar Pizza with Crescent Rolls is the perfect treat for when you’re craving something sweet, simple, and satisfying. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few minutes of prep, you can whip up a gooey, cinnamon-spiced dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dessert, a brunch centerpiece, or a last-minute potluck dish, this recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.
Ready to give it a try?
Gather those crescent rolls and get baking—your kitchen (and taste buds) will thank you! Don’t forget to snap a photo and share your creation with us in the comments or tag us on social media. And if you loved this recipe, be sure to check out our other easy dessert ideas for more sweet inspiration.FAQs
Can I use homemade dough instead of crescent rolls?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade dough, a simple pizza dough or even puff pastry will work beautifully. Just roll it out into a circle or rectangle before adding the toppings.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 4 days and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I add other toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative—sliced apples, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce would all be delicious additions.
Is there a way to make this recipe ahead of time?
You can assemble the pizza (without baking) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra minute or two to the baking time if the dough is cold.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the crescent rolls for a gluten-free crescent dough or pie crust, and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.