Who can resist the sweet, gooey goodness of a dessert pizza? Pizza Inn’s dessert pizza has been a fan favorite for years, combining the best of a classic pizza crust with indulgent toppings that satisfy any sweet tooth. It’s the perfect treat to end a meal or enjoy as a stand-alone dessert.
Pizza Inn Dessert Pizza Recipe
Creating your own Pizza Inn Dessert Pizza at home is easier than you think. With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, we can enjoy this sweet, indulgent treat right from our kitchen.
Ingredients
Here’s what we need to make this delightful dessert pizza:
-
For the crust:
- 1 can (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
-
For the base:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
-
For the toppings:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk (adjust for consistency)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the crust
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough onto a baking sheet or pizza pan. Shape it into a round or rectangular base, depending on your preference.
2. Create the cinnamon-sugar base
- Brush the melted butter evenly over the crust.
- In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the buttered dough.
3. Bake the crust
- Place the dough in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and fluffy. Keep a close eye to avoid over-browning.
4. Prepare the glaze
- While the crust is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth, forming a drizzle-like consistency. Add more milk if needed but avoid making it too runny.
5. Top the dessert pizza
- Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly. Use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle the glaze over the warm base.
- Sprinkle semi-sweet and white chocolate chips over the glaze for an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
6. Serve and enjoy
- Slice into small or large servings, depending on the occasion, and serve warm or at room temperature.
- This dessert pizza pairs excellently with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.
Baking Time and Measurements Summary
| Step | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Baking the crust | 375°F | 10-12 mins |
| Preparing and assembling | N/A | 15 mins |
Ingredients
To recreate the indulgent Pizza Inn Dessert Pizza at home, we’ll need simple yet flavorful ingredients. Below, we’ve organized them by category to streamline your preparation process.
For The Dough
- 1 can refrigerated pizza dough (classic crust for the perfect base)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (to brush the dough for added richness)
For The Topping
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for that deep caramel flavor)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (to create a smooth paste-like consistency with the sugars)
Optional Garnishes
- Powdered sugar (to dust lightly over finished pizza)
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
- Vanilla ice cream (optional but highly recommended – pairs perfectly!)
- Caramel or chocolate sauce (for drizzling over the top)
By organizing the ingredients, we ensure every step is as enjoyable as the dessert itself.
Required Tools And Equipment
To recreate the indulgent Pizza Inn Dessert Pizza at home, having the right tools and equipment is essential for achieving the best results. With these tools, we’ll ensure the preparation process is smooth, efficient, and enjoyable. Here’s everything you’ll need:
Tools for Preparing the Dough and Toppings
- Mixing bowls: Use medium-sized bowls to mix the cinnamon-sugar topping evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: These guarantee precise measurements of flour, sugars, and cinnamon.
- Silicone or pastry brush: Perfect for spreading melted butter evenly over the pizza dough.
Tools for Assembling and Baking
- Rolling pin: For gently rolling out the refrigerated pizza dough to your desired thickness.
- Pizza pan or baking sheet: A non-stick pizza pan works best for a perfectly baked crust.
- Parchment paper: Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and achieve easy cleanup.
Tools for Decorating and Finishing
- Small whisk or spoon: For stirring the glaze (powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract) to a smooth consistency.
- Drizzling spoon or piping bag: Makes it easy to add decorative and even layers of glaze or optional chocolate sauce.
Tools for Cutting and Serving
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife: To slice the dessert pizza cleanly into perfect pieces.
- Serving plate or tray: Serve the pizza in style, especially if entertaining guests.
Suggested Tools (Optional)
For extra flair or ease of preparation:
- Stand mixer: If you prefer mixing toppings or glaze with minimal effort.
- Ice cream scoop: To serve optional vanilla ice cream alongside the pizza slices.
To summarize the must-haves for this recipe:
| Category | Tools/Equipment |
|---|---|
| Preparing Dough & Toppings | Mixing bowls, measuring cups, pastry brush |
| Assembling & Baking | Rolling pin, pizza pan, baking sheet, parchment paper |
| Decorating & Finishing | Small whisk, drizzling spoon, piping bag |
| Cutting & Serving | Pizza cutter, serving plate |
Directions
Let’s dive into creating the Pizza Inn Dessert Pizza. With these step-by-step instructions, we’ll make a sweet treat that everyone will love. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.
Prepare The Dough
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a pizza pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough onto the pan, shaping it into a 12-inch circle for even thickness.
- Use a fork to gently poke holes across the dough to prevent air bubbles while baking.
- Brush the surface with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, spreading it evenly to ensure a golden, buttery base.
Prepare The Topping
- In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- Mix thoroughly with a spoon until the ingredients form a coarse, crumbly texture. This mixture will serve as the decadent cinnamon-sugar base.
- If desired, fold in 2 tablespoons of chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
Assemble The Dessert Pizza
- Evenly spread the prepared topping mixture across the buttered dough, leaving a small 1/2-inch border around the edge.
- Gently press the topping into the dough with your fingers or the back of a spoon, ensuring it adheres well.
- For added indulgence, sprinkle the top with extra chocolate chips or a pinch of cinnamon as desired.
Bake The Dessert Pizza
- Place the dessert pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden and the topping is bubbly.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let the pizza cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes.
- While cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled dessert pizza using a spoon for a decorative touch.
- Slice into wedges with a pizza cutter and serve warm with optional toppings like vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce.
Baking Tip: Watch the pizza closely in the last few minutes of baking to avoid overcooking the topping. The sugars should caramelize lightly without burning.
Tips For Success
To ensure your Pizza Inn Dessert Pizza turns out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips for preparation, baking, and serving. These recommendations are based on precision and experience, helping to enhance both flavor and presentation.
1. Focus on Dough Quality
- Use fresh, refrigerated pizza dough for the best results. Pre-packaged dough that’s close to its expiration may not rise as well and could lead to a denser base.
- Let the dough rest at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes. This prevents tearing when rolling it out.
- Roll the dough with a lightly floured rolling pin to avoid sticking and achieve an even thickness of about 1/4 inch.
2. Perfect the Butter and Sugar Blend
- When brushing the dough with melted butter, use a pastry brush for even coverage. The butter helps lock in moisture and gives the dessert pizza a rich base for the topping.
- Combine the sugars, flour, and cinnamon thoroughly with a whisk before adding them to the dough. This ensures a consistent topping.
- Here’s a quick reference for the topping mixture proportions:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Granulated Sugar | 1/3 cup |
| Brown Sugar | 1/3 cup |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1/4 cup |
3. Assemble Smart
- Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly across the buttered dough—don’t press it down. This creates a crumbly and crisp top texture after baking.
- Avoid overloading the dough with excess topping, as it may become soggy or burn during baking. Stick to the measurements provided.
4. Monitor Baking Closely
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the pizza pan on the center rack for even heat distribution.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, but begin checking at the 8-minute mark. The edge of the crust should be golden, and the topping slightly caramelized but not browned.
5. Serve with Style
- Allow the pizza to cool for about 5 minutes before adding any optional toppings like powdered sugar or drizzled icing. This prevents these garnishes from melting too quickly.
- Slice with a pizza cutter for clean, neat portions. Serve warm for the best combination of crispy crust and gooey topping.
Pro-Tip: Create Dessert Pairings
For a next-level experience, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with caramel sauce to complement the cinnamon-sugar flavors perfectly. This transforms a simple dessert into an indulgent treat that’s perfect for special occasions.
Variations And Substitutions
One of the best things about making your own Pizza Inn Dessert Pizza is how customizable it can be. Whether you’re dealing with dietary restrictions or just looking for fun ways to experiment, here are some variations and substitutions you can incorporate to make this recipe your own.
1. Crust Options
- Gluten-Free Crust: Replace the traditional pizza dough with a store-bought or homemade gluten-free pizza crust. Ensure the crust is not overly thick to maintain dessert-like consistency.
- Cookie Dough Base: For an indulgent twist, swap the pizza dough with sugar cookie dough. This creates a soft, chewy dessert crust reminiscent of a cookie pizza.
- Graham Cracker Crust: Crush graham crackers, mix them with melted butter, and press them into a pizza pan to achieve a no-bake crust variation.
2. Sweeteners
If you’re looking to adjust the sweetness or use alternative sweeteners for dietary reasons:
- Coconut Sugar: Substitute granulated or brown sugar with coconut sugar for a slightly caramel-like flavor and a lower glycemic index.
- Stevia or Monk Fruit: Use a calorie-free sweetener such as Stevia or monk fruit extract. Ensure to follow the conversion ratios for replacing sugar, as these are much sweeter than traditional sugars.
- Maple Syrup or Honey: Drizzle maple syrup or honey over the baked dessert for a natural sweetener instead of powdered sugar or glaze.
3. Flavorful Topping Variations
Experimenting with the topping is one of the easiest ways to personalize your pizza:
- Fruits: Add fresh fruits like sliced strawberries, diced apples, or blueberries for a fruity flavor burst. These pair beautifully with the cinnamon sugar base.
- Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds on top for added crunch and a nutty undertone.
- Chocolate: Incorporate mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings into the topping mix for a richer chocolate flavor.
- Spices: For a more exotic taste, try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin pie spice to the topping mixture.
- Marshmallows: Scatter mini marshmallows on top in the last two minutes of baking to achieve a gooey, s’mores-inspired treat.
4. Dairy-Free Alternatives
- Replace butter with plant-based butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version without compromising flavor.
- Use a coconut milk-based caramel sauce for drizzling to avoid dairy in the garnish.
Substitutions At-A-Glance
| Ingredient | Suggested Substitution | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pizza Dough | Gluten-free crust, sugar cookie dough, or graham cracker crust | Adjust baking time for cookie or cracker base. |
| Granulated Sugar | Coconut sugar, Stevia, or monk fruit | Adjust measurements for sweetness levels. |
| Brown Sugar | Coconut sugar or maple syrup | Adds a caramelized flavor. |
| Butter | Dairy-free butter or coconut oil | Use softened or melted for best results. |
| Cinnamon | Pumpkin spice, nutmeg, or cardamom | Adjust to taste for varied spice profiles. |
5. Glaze And Toppings Customization
- Vanilla Cream Glaze: Replace the powdered sugar glaze with a vanilla cream made from non-dairy milk and vanilla extract for a rich flavor boost.
- Caramel Drizzle: Store-bought or homemade caramel adds a luxurious touch.
- Ice Cream Variety: While vanilla is classic, experiment with unique flavors like salted caramel, strawberry, or coffee ice cream for added depth.
- Syrup Drizzles: Use chocolate syrup, raspberry sauce, or even Nutella for an extra layer of indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying the Pizza Inn Dessert Pizza, presentation and accompaniments play a crucial role in elevating the experience. Here are our best serving ideas to make this sweet indulgence irresistible:
- Serve Warm: This dessert pizza is best enjoyed straight out of the oven or slightly cooled. The warm, soft crust paired with the gooey, sugary topping creates a heavenly bite.
- Pair with Ice Cream: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on each slice for a creamy contrast to the warm pizza. Other flavors like cinnamon swirl, butter pecan, or even caramel toffee can also pair beautifully.
- Drizzle it Right: Top each slice with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce, chocolate syrup, or even honey. This adds a layer of decadence and complements the cinnamon-sugar topping perfectly.
- Sprinkle Garnishes: For an extra touch, sprinkle toppings like mini chocolate chips, crushed nuts (pecans, almonds, or walnuts), or even a light dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness and texture.
- Family-Style Serving: Place the whole pizza on a festive serving plate with a pizza cutter on the side. Let everyone slice their own piece—this method keeps it casual and fun.
- Individual Portions: If entertaining, cut the pizza into even squares or small wedges. Serve on individual dessert plates for a more polished presentation.
Dessert Pairing Ideas
To complement the flavors of this dessert pizza, we recommend pairing it with the following:
| Beverage | Description |
|---|---|
| Coffee / Latte | A warm cup of coffee or a cinnamon latte enhances the cinnamon-sugar flavors. |
| Hot Chocolate | Perfect for colder weather, this rich drink matches the sweet, indulgent theme. |
| Sweet Wine | Dessert wines like Moscato or Riesling add a sophisticated finish to your treat. |
| Milk | A classic choice, a glass of milk balances the sweetness of the dessert pizza. |
| Iced Tea / Lemonade | For a refreshing combination, serve with chilled iced tea or homemade lemonade. |
Pro Tip for Leftovers
If you have leftovers, reheat slices in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or until warm. For added freshness, drizzle a touch of caramel before serving.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Pizza Inn Dessert Pizza in advance can save time while ensuring the indulgent dessert is ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes. Follow these steps to efficiently make parts of the recipe ahead of time without compromising its freshness or flavor:
1. Prepping the Dough
- Use store-bought refrigerated pizza dough for convenience or make your dough from scratch up to 24 hours in advance.
- Place prepared dough in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use. Allow the dough to come to room temperature for 20–30 minutes before rolling it out.
2. Preparing the Topping
- In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and all-purpose flour ahead of time.
- Store the mixture in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature. This keeps the topping fresh and ready for quick assembly.
3. Making the Glaze
- Whip up your drizzle or glaze (e.g., powdered sugar mixed with milk or cream) and store it in a small airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Before serving, whisk the glaze again or let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to restore its smooth consistency.
4. Assembling and Freezing the Pizza
- For Partial Assembly: Roll out the dough and brush it with melted butter, then refrigerate it on a pizza pan covered in plastic wrap (up to 12 hours before baking). Add toppings just before baking.
- For Freezing: Prepare the dough and add the cinnamon-sugar topping. Place the uncooked pizza on a baking sheet and freeze it until firm, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it for up to 1 month.
| Prep Component | Storage Method | Storage Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Pizza Dough | Airtight container, refrigerated | Up to 24 hours |
| Topping Mixture | Airtight container, room temp | Up to 1 week |
| Glaze/Drizzle | Airtight container, refrigerated | Up to 2 days |
| Unbaked Assembled Pizza | Freeze, wrapped tightly | Up to 1 month |
5. Reheating Tips
If you’ve made and frozen the dessert pizza, bake it directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for an extra 5–7 minutes to ensure it heats through while preserving its texture. For pre-cooked leftovers, warm slices in the oven at the same temperature for 5–10 minutes to restore their crispiness and melt-in-your-mouth appeal.
By organizing and completing parts of the process early, we streamline the preparation while maintaining the iconic flavor and texture of this scrumptious dessert pizza.
Storing And Reheating
Proper storing and reheating ensure that our Pizza Inn Dessert Pizza retains its delightful texture and flavor, even as leftovers. Follow these steps to keep the dessert fresh and enjoyable.
How to Store Dessert Pizza
- Cool Completely: Allow the pizza to cool entirely to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the crust soggy.
- Use Airtight Containers: Place leftover slices in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to avoid air exposure.
- Refrigeration: Store the wrapped or containerized pizza in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
- Freezing (Optional): To freeze, individually wrap each slice in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. Label with the date to track freshness. Dessert pizza can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating Dessert Pizza
Reheating restores the warm, indulgent quality of a fresh-baked dessert pizza. Here are the best reheating methods:
For Refrigerated Pizza:
- Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Heat for 5–7 minutes, or until the crust is crisp and the topping is warmed through.
- Microwave Method: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 20–30 seconds. To prevent a soggy crust, lay a paper towel underneath the slice.
For Frozen Pizza:
- Thaw First: Transfer the pizza from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight before reheating.
- Oven Reheating: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the thawed slices on a baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, checking for crispness and a warmed interior.
Pro Tips for Reheating
- Use a toaster oven for single portions to preserve the crisp texture.
- Avoid overheating to maintain the soft, gooey topping and flakey crust.
- Add a drizzle of fresh glaze or toppings such as chocolate sauce or ice cream to “revive” the dessert’s original charm.
Quick Reference Table
Here’s a quick guide for storing and reheating our dessert pizza:
| Storage/Method | Steps | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Let pizza cool completely before wrapping or storing. | Up to 1 hour |
| Refrigeration | Use airtight containers or wrap tightly in plastic/aluminum. | 3 days |
| Freezing | Wrap slices in plastic wrap and foil; freeze in labeled bags. | 2 months |
| Oven (refrigerated) | Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 5–7 minutes. | Until warmed through and crisp. |
| Microwave | Heat on medium power for 20–30 seconds, with a paper towel underneath to prevent sogginess. | Quick reheating (ideal for soft texture). |
| Oven (frozen) | Thaw slices in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes. | Until thoroughly crisp and warm. |
Conclusion
Creating a Pizza Inn Dessert Pizza at home is a fun and rewarding way to indulge in a sweet treat that everyone will love. With simple ingredients, easy-to-follow steps, and plenty of room for customization, this dessert offers endless possibilities for flavor and presentation.
Whether you’re sharing it with family, serving it at a gathering, or enjoying it solo, this dessert pizza is sure to impress. By following the tips and techniques we’ve shared, you can achieve the perfect combination of textures and flavors every time. Let’s make dessert unforgettable!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pizza Inn Dessert Pizza?
Pizza Inn Dessert Pizza is a unique treat that combines a classic pizza crust with sweet toppings, such as cinnamon sugar and optional garnishes like powdered sugar, chocolate chips, or caramel sauce. It’s an indulgent dessert perfect for satisfying sweet cravings.
Can I make Pizza Inn Dessert Pizza at home?
Yes, you can make it at home! The recipe requires simple ingredients like pizza dough, butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Follow the step-by-step instructions in the article to bake the perfect dessert pizza.
What ingredients do I need for Pizza Inn Dessert Pizza?
You’ll need refrigerated pizza dough, melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and flour. Optional toppings include powdered sugar, ice cream, and sauces like caramel or chocolate for added flavor.
What tools are needed to prepare and bake this dessert?
Common kitchen tools like mixing bowls, measuring cups, a rolling pin, and a pizza pan are essential. Other helpful tools include a pizza cutter and serving plates. Optional items like a stand mixer or ice cream scoop can simplify prep.
How do I ensure my dessert pizza turns out perfectly?
Use fresh dough, monitor baking time closely, and allow the pizza to cool slightly before serving. Spread toppings evenly for the best flavor and texture. Serve warm with optional accompaniments like ice cream or sauces.
Can I customize the dessert pizza to suit dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free crusts, dairy-free butter, or alternative sweeteners like Stevia or maple syrup. Experiment with different toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, or dairy-free ice cream to personalize it.
How do I store leftover dessert pizza?
Allow the pizza to cool completely before storing. Keep leftovers in airtight containers or wrap them tightly to maintain freshness. Refrigerate or freeze for extended storage.
What’s the best way to reheat dessert pizza?
To reheat, use an oven for a crispy crust or a microwave for convenience. Warm slices carefully to avoid overcooking. For frozen pizza, thaw before reheating and check frequently.
Can I prepare the dessert pizza in advance?
Yes! You can prep the dough, topping mixture, and glaze ahead of time. Assemble and bake when ready. Alternatively, freeze the unbaked pizza for later use and bake directly from frozen.
What are some creative serving ideas for dessert pizza?
Serve warm, paired with vanilla ice cream, and drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce. Add garnishes like crushed nuts or mini chocolate chips. For drinks, pair with coffee, hot chocolate, or sweet wines for the ultimate dessert experience.