Pumpkin Spice Dessert Pizza: A Cozy Fall Treat

Introduction

There’s something utterly magical about the arrival of fall. The air turns crisp, leaves paint the world in shades of amber and gold, and everything seems to be infused with that comforting aroma of pumpkin spice. If you’re like me, that cozy vibe calls for a dessert that captures all the season’s warmth—and that’s where this Pumpkin Spice Dessert Pizza comes into play. Imagine a sweet, cinnamon-spiced pumpkin filling slathered on a soft, chewy crust and topped with a drizzle of cream cheese icing. It’s like a warm hug from the inside out, perfect for those chilly evenings when you want to curl up on the couch with something delicious.

This dessert pizza is not just scrumptious; it’s incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re looking to impress friends at a gathering or treat your family to a sweet surprise after dinner, this recipe has you covered. I first stumbled upon it during a family gathering a few years ago when my aunt made it. The way everyone devoured it made me realize I had to get the recipe! Since then, it has become a staple in my kitchen every fall, bringing back fond memories of laughter and sweet indulgence.

So, grab your apron, and let’s whip up this delightful Pumpkin Spice Dessert Pizza together—trust me, it’ll become a favorite in your home, too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this Pumpkin Spice Dessert Pizza is a must-try:

• Super Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a baking pro to tackle this recipe. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delightful dessert in no time.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Kids and adults alike can’t resist this pizza! It’s a fun way to bring everyone together for a sweet treat.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, spices, and cream cheese creates a flavor explosion that’ll have you reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds!).
• Customizable Toppings: Want to add nuts or chocolate chips? Go for it! This dessert pizza is versatile enough to suit any taste.

Trust me when I say, the first bite of this pumpkin spice goodness will transport you straight to a cozy autumn afternoon, complete with a warm drink in hand.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 8 slices
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 250
• Protein: 3g, Carbs: 36g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 pre-made pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• Why it’s essential: This forms the foundation of our dessert pizza—soft, chewy, and perfect for holding all that pumpkin goodness.

For the pumpkin filling:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
• Why it’s essential: This brings the classic pumpkin flavor and moisture that makes the pizza irresistible.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• Why it’s essential: It adds sweetness and depth, balancing the spices beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• Why it’s essential: The star of the show! This blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger is what gives our dessert that cozy, fall flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Why it’s essential: It enhances the overall flavor, making every bite taste richer.

For the cream cheese icing:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• Why it’s essential: This creamy topping adds a deliciously tangy contrast to the sweet pumpkin filling.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• Why it’s essential: Sweetens the icing to perfection, making it drizzlable and delightful.
• 1 tablespoon milk
• Why it’s essential: Helps achieve the right consistency for drizzling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your Pumpkin Spice Dessert Pizza:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures our crust gets nice and golden.
2. Prepare the Pizza Dough: Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. After that, transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If you’re using store-bought dough, simply unroll it according to the package instructions.
3. Make the Pumpkin Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well blended. Don’t worry if it seems a bit thick; it’ll spread out nicely on the dough.
4. Spread the Filling: Using a spatula, spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over the rolled-out pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Bake the Pizza: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. Keep an eye on it—every oven is a little different!
6. Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing: While the pizza is baking, whip up your icing. In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth. Adjust the milk to achieve your desired drizzling consistency.
7. Drizzle the Icing: Once the pizza is out of the oven and cooled slightly, drizzle the cream cheese icing over the top. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for a more polished look.
8. Slice and Serve: Finally, cut your dessert pizza into slices and serve warm. Enjoy the cozy vibes and delightful flavors!

How to Serve

Here are a few fun serving suggestions to elevate your dessert pizza experience:

• Top with Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds an extra layer of indulgence.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
• Serve with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm pizza.
• Garnish with Cinnamon: A sprinkle of cinnamon on top gives it a lovely finish.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Pumpkin Spice Dessert Pizza turns out perfectly, here are some handy tips:

1. Don’t Skimp on the Pumpkin: Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which is loaded with sugar and spices.
2. Chill Your Cream Cheese: If your cream cheese isn’t soft enough, it’ll be tricky to mix. Let it sit out for about 30 minutes before using.
3. Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your pizza while it’s baking. The edges should be golden brown, and the center should be set.
4. Experiment with Spices: If you’re a spice lover, feel free to add a pinch of ginger or nutmeg to the filling for an extra kick.
5. Let it Cool: Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes for cleaner cuts.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some fun variations:

• Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Pizza: Stir in a handful of chocolate chips into the pumpkin filling for a sweet surprise.
• Nutty Version: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the pumpkin filling for added texture.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pizza crust to make this dessert accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use a plant-based milk for the icing.

Serving Suggestions

To complement your Pumpkin Spice Dessert Pizza, consider these delicious side dishes and beverages:

• Side Dishes: Pair with a light arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette to balance the sweetness.
• Beverages: Warm apple cider or spiced chai tea makes for a delightful pairing with this dessert.
• For Kids: Serve with soft, buttery dinner rolls or even mini pumpkin muffins for a fun fall-themed snack.

Freezing and Storage

If you have leftovers (or want to prepare ahead), here’s how to store or freeze your pizza:

• Storage: Keep leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: If you want to freeze it, wrap the cooled pizza tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Special Equipment

Here’s a quick list of tools that will make your baking experience smoother:

• Baking Sheet: A rimmed baking sheet is perfect for catching any drips.
• Parchment Paper: This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing Bowls: A set of mixing bowls in different sizes is handy for prepping ingredients.

FAQ Section

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough saves time and works perfectly for this recipe.

What’s the best way to soften cream cheese?
Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using. You can also microwave it for a few seconds if you’re in a hurry—just be careful not to melt it!

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pumpkin filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble and bake the pizza just

before serving.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
No worries! You can create your own blend with equal parts cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

How do I know when the pizza is done?
The edges should be golden brown, and the center should be set and not jiggly. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited to make this Pumpkin Spice Dessert Pizza as I am! It’s truly the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall and create sweet memories with loved ones. Don’t forget to share your delicious creations on social media and tag me—I can’t wait to see how yours turns out! So roll up those sleeves and dive into this cozy dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy baking!

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