Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Roll Pizza

10 November 2025

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10 November 2025

3.8 (14)

1520

total time

servings

340 kcal

calories

Introduction

Discover an irresistible dessert-meets-snack that’s perfect for brunch, parties, or a cozy treat at home: Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Roll Pizza. This playful recipe transforms store-bought crescent roll dough into a sweet, shareable pizza layered with butter, cinnamon sugar, and optional fillings like cream cheese, fruit, or chocolate. The result is a golden, flaky crust with a caramelized, crunchy topping and soft, gooey pockets of flavor. It’s fast, forgiving, and great for cooks of any skill level. In this article you’ll find clear ingredient lists, step-by-step assembly and baking instructions, tailored tips for getting the best texture and sweetness balance, and creative variations to suit dietary needs and occasions. We also cover equipment you actually need, suggestions for pairing and serving, plus safe storage and reheating techniques so you can enjoy leftovers. Because cinnamon-sugar crusts can vary depending on oven temperature and dough brand, we include troubleshooting notes for common issues like soggy centers, overbrowning, or uneven spreading. We’ll also show how to scale the recipe up for a crowd or transform it into individual dessert cups using a muffin tin. Whether you want a quick weekend brunch centerpiece or a fun dessert to bring to a potluck, this Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Roll Pizza delivers satisfying crisp edges, pillowy layers, and that nostalgic sweet-spiced aroma. Read on for everything you need to make it beautifully every time.

Gathering Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients sets the foundation for a perfect Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Roll Pizza. This recipe relies on a mix of pantry staples and a few optional add-ins to customize flavor and texture. Start with one or two cans of refrigerated crescent roll dough — the pre-cut triangles that unroll into a sheet make assembly quick and consistent. For the classic topping you’ll need unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon; butter melts and binds the cinnamon sugar into a glossy, slightly caramelized coating while sugar provides crunch and sweetness. Optional fillings and accents elevate the pizza into different directions: softened cream cheese and a touch of vanilla turn it into a creamy, cheesecake-like version; thinly sliced apples or pears combine with a sprinkle of nutmeg for an autumnal tart; mini chocolate chips or Nutella add indulgent pockets of melted chocolate. Citrus zest (orange or lemon) can brighten the overall profile, and chopped toasted nuts—pecans or almonds—bring texture contrast. For the best results, measure ingredients precisely: use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for sugar and butter, and pre-measure cinnamon to avoid over-spicing. If you’re making multiple pans, organize ingredients in a mise en place so assembly flows. Check dough expiration dates and bring refrigerated dough to room temperature briefly to make it more pliable. Finally, have parchment paper and a baking sheet ready — they make transfer and cleanup simpler.

Ingredients & Measurements

Ingredients (for one 9–10 inch pizza; scale up as needed): - 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough (or 2 cans if you prefer a double-layer crust) - 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, melted - 1/3 cup (67 g) granulated sugar - 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon - 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened (optional) - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (if using cream cheese topping) - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional; for cream cheese or batter) - 1/2 to 1 cup fruit or mix-ins (sliced apples, pears, berries, mini chocolate chips, or jam) - Zest of 1 small orange or lemon (optional) - 2 tablespoons chopped toasted nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds), optional - Pinch of salt, if using unsalted butter Notes on measurements and substitutions: Crescent roll dough brands vary in size. If using a full sheet of refrigerated biscuit or pastry dough, you may need to trim or patch seams to fit. For a richer topping, swap half the granulated sugar for brown sugar to get a deeper caramel flavor; reduce by a tablespoon if you prefer less sweetness. For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter and a dairy-free cream cheese substitute; the texture will be slightly different but still delicious. If making individual servings in a muffin tin, divide dough into 8–12 portions and adjust bake time downward by 4–6 minutes, checking frequently. Keep cinnamon-to-sugar ratio around 1:6 for a classic cinnamon-sugar balance, and increase cinnamon slightly for a more pronounced spice.

Equipment & Prep

Equipment and prep set the stage for smooth assembly and an even bake. You don’t need professional tools for Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Roll Pizza, but a few basic items will improve results and speed up the process. Start with a rimmed baking sheet or pizza pan (9–11 inches) lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup. A silicone baking mat also works well. Use a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl to melt butter and combine it with sugar and cinnamon; a whisk or fork will ensure a smooth, even mixture. For spreading softened cream cheese or fruit preserves, a rubber spatula or offset spatula offers control without tearing the dough. A rolling pin is optional: many crescent dough sheets unroll flat, but if your dough is uneven or you want a thinner crust, lightly roll seams to create a uniform sheet. A pastry brush helps distribute melted butter evenly across the dough; if you don’t have one, a spoon or the back of a small ladle will do. Keep measuring cups, spoons, and a small bowl handy for pre-mixing the cinnamon-sugar blend. Prep steps to follow before assembly: bring cream cheese and butter to room temperature to make spreading easier; pre-slice any fruit thinly to avoid excess moisture during baking; pre-toast nuts if using to deepen flavor; and preheat the oven to the recommended temperature to ensure immediate baking when the pizza goes in. Also, prepare a cooling rack near the oven so the finished pizza can rest and crisp without getting soggy. Organized prep cuts overall cook time and improves the final texture.

Step-by-Step Assembly

Step-by-step assembly is simple and quick, which is what makes this crescent roll pizza a favorite for last-minute entertaining. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) unless a specific dough recommends a different temperature. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper and unroll the crescent dough onto it; if your dough comes in triangles, press the seams gently with your fingertips or a rolling pin to form a single, mostly seamless rectangle or circle. Next, brush the dough evenly with about three tablespoons of the melted butter, reserving the remainder for brushing the top edge or mixing with sugar for a final glaze. In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar and cinnamon thoroughly. Sprinkle most of this cinnamon-sugar blend over the buttered dough, leaving a small rim bare if you want a defined crust. For a cream cheese layer, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth, then spread it gently over the cinnamon-sugared dough before adding fruit or chips. Arrange your chosen mix-ins in an even layer—thin fruit slices, small dollops of jam, or scatter mini chocolate chips. If using fruit that releases juice (apples, pears, berries), toss slices briefly in a tablespoon of flour or a little extra sugar to help absorb moisture. Fold or roll the edges slightly toward the center to create a raised rim that catches melted sugar. Finally, brush the exposed rim with the remaining butter and sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar for a caramelized edge.

Cooking Process

Baking transforms the assembled crescent roll pizza into a golden, caramelized treat. Place the pan on the middle rack of your preheated oven to ensure even heat circulation. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–18 minutes, watching closely after 10 minutes; ovens vary, and dough brands can brown faster. You want the edges to be a deep golden brown and the cinnamon-sugar topping to be bubbling and just beginning to caramelize without burning. If the topping browns too quickly, tent the pizza loosely with foil for the remaining time. A helpful technique for achieving a crisp base is to pre-bake the unfilled, brushed dough for 4–6 minutes before adding cream cheese or delicate fruit, then remove and finish assembly. This prevents soggy centers when using moist fillings. For a double-layer crust or if your crescent dough is thick, increase bake time by 3–5 minutes and check the underside with a thin spatula to confirm doneness. Mid-bake tips: rotate the pan halfway through to promote even color; if using a pizza stone, transfer the assembled pizza carefully and decrease bake time slightly because stones conduct heat more efficiently. After baking, let the pizza rest for 5–8 minutes on a cooling rack—this lets the sugar set and makes slicing neater. If you prefer a glossy finish, brush a light layer of extra melted butter mixed with a pinch of sugar over the hot surface as soon as it comes out of the oven.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serving cinnamon-sugar crescent roll pizza is an opportunity to amplify its dessert or brunch appeal through complementary toppings, sauces, and beverages. For a classic dessert presentation, dust the slightly cooled pizza with powdered sugar and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm caramel or chocolate sauce. Fresh berries like raspberries or thinly sliced strawberries add bright acidity that contrasts the sweet, buttery crust, while a spoonful of lemon curd can cut through richness for a more sophisticated palate. If serving at brunch, pair the pizza with lighter accompaniments: Greek yogurt with honey, a citrus fruit salad, or a platter of sliced seasonal fruits. Beverages to offer include strong coffee, café au lait, chai tea, or sparkling wine for a celebratory touch. For an adult brunch, a mimosa with a touch of orange zest mirrors the citrus notes you might bake into the pizza. To make individual servings for a party, cut the pizza into small wedges or bake in a muffin tin, then top each mini with a quenelle of flavored whipped cream, a candied nut, or a tiny spoonful of jam. For a kid-friendly option, offer mini bowls of mix-ins—chocolate chips, sprinkles, marshmallows—so guests can customize. When plating, use warm plates to help keep slices soft and inviting; avoid stacking slices to prevent steam build-up and sogginess. Always serve within two hours of baking for optimal texture, or briefly reheat before serving when necessary.

Final Presentation

Final presentation elevates this humble sweet pizza into a showpiece. After the cinnamon-sugar crescent roll pizza has rested for a few minutes, transfer it to a serving board or plate using a wide spatula for clean edges. For a rustic look, leave the crust slightly irregular; for a more polished appearance, trim jagged edges with a sharp knife and wipe stray sugar with a pastry brush. A light dusting of powdered sugar through a fine sieve gives a snowy finish and contrasts nicely with the caramelized top. Garnish strategically: place fresh fruit slices or berries in a radiating pattern, sprinkle chopped toasted nuts for crunch, and add a few mint leaves or edible flowers for color. If you used cream cheese or a glaze, use a piping bag or small spoon to add dollops or drizzle artfully across slices rather than pouring, which can pool and make slices soggy. For an elegant touch, serve each slice with a small ramekin of warmed sauce—salted caramel, berry coulis, or melted chocolate—so guests can personalize each bite. Consider lighting and plate choice when presenting at a brunch or dinner: warm wooden boards and neutral ceramic plates make the golden tones pop, while a bright white plate emphasizes color contrasts from fruit and garnishes. Photographing the pizza? Shoot at golden hour near a window for soft natural light, use a shallow depth of field to highlight texture, and include a hand reaching for a slice to convey warmth and sharing.

Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead Tips

Storing and reheating the cinnamon-sugar crescent roll pizza properly preserves texture and flavor so leftovers remain enjoyable. Once cooled to near room temperature, store slices in an airtight container layered between sheets of parchment to prevent sticking. For short-term storage, keep at room temperature for up to 24 hours; for longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Note that refrigeration can slightly soften the crust; to revive crispness, use oven reheating methods described below. To reheat slices, preheat the oven to 325–350°F (165–177°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for 6–10 minutes until warmed through and the edges re-crisp. Using a toaster oven or air fryer works well for single slices—heat at 320°F (160°C) for 3–5 minutes depending on thickness. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve texture, as microwaves make the crust rubbery and the sugar topping can become sticky. If microwaving is unavoidable, heat briefly (20–30 seconds) and then finish under a broiler for a minute to restore color and firmness. For make-ahead strategies, assemble the pizza on parchment and refrigerate unbaked for up to 12 hours; allow 10–15 extra minutes of bake time when baking from chilled. Alternatively, par-bake the brushed dough for 4–6 minutes, cool, then top and bake before serving. To freeze, wrap fully cooled baked slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze in a flat layer; reheat from frozen at 350°F (177°C) for 12–15 minutes, covering loosely with foil if the top begins to brown too quickly.