Caramel Apple Dessert Pizza with Cinnamon Streusel

I love making this Caramel Apple Dessert Pizza when I want a cozy dessert that feels both comforting and impressive. Soft homemade dough creates the perfect base for warm cinnamon-spiced apples, a buttery streusel topping, and a generous drizzle of homemade salted caramel. Every slice delivers the perfect balance of sweet, buttery, and lightly spiced flavors that make this dessert ideal for fall gatherings, holidays, or any time I crave something special.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

1 cup granulated sugar

6 tablespoons salted butter, cubed

1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon heavy cream

Pinch of flaky sea salt

For the Pizza Dough:

1/2 cup warm water

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

1 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Streusel:

3 tablespoons cold salted butter, cubed

2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon olive oil

3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/3 cup packed brown sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Apple Filling:

2 tablespoons salted butter

2 large apples, sliced

3 tablespoons packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Pinch of salt

1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Directions

I prepare the salted caramel sauce by melting the sugar over medium heat until it turns a deep golden color. Then I carefully stir in the butter, followed by the heavy cream and flaky sea salt, mixing until smooth. I set the caramel aside to cool slightly.

In a large mixing bowl, I combine the warm water and sugar before sprinkling the yeast over the top. I let the mixture rest for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.

Then I add the flour, olive oil, cinnamon, and salt to the yeast mixture and stir until a shaggy dough forms. I knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

I place the dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

While the dough rises, I prepare the streusel by mixing the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, salt, butter, and olive oil until coarse crumbs and small clumps form.

I preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

In a saucepan, I melt the butter and add the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. I cook for about 4 minutes before stirring in the flour and cooking another 4 to 6 minutes until the filling thickens.

I press the risen dough evenly into a greased 9-inch deep pie dish or pizza pan.

Then I spread the apple filling evenly over the dough and generously sprinkle the streusel on top.

I bake for 17 to 19 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the topping is lightly browned.

Next I allow the dessert pizza to rest for a few minutes before drizzling it generously with the salted caramel sauce. I serve it warm for the best flavor and texture.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Rise Time: 1 hour

Cook Time: 18 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 48 minutes

Calories: Approximately 438 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap the apples for pears to create a slightly different seasonal flavor. When I want extra crunch, I mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the streusel topping. I also enjoy adding a splash of vanilla extract to the caramel sauce for extra richness. For an even more indulgent dessert, I like serving each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. If I prefer a deeper spice profile, I add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the apple filling.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover dessert pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When I want to enjoy another slice, I reheat it in a 325°F (165°C) oven for about 8 to 10 minutes to help the crust stay crisp. I can also warm individual slices in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds, although the streusel will be softer. I keep any leftover caramel sauce in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks and gently warm it before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

I can absolutely use store-bought caramel sauce when I need to save time, although homemade salted caramel provides the richest flavor.

Which apples work best for this recipe?

I like using firm baking apples such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Pink Lady because they hold their shape well while baking.

Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?

I can prepare the caramel sauce, streusel, and apple filling in advance and refrigerate them separately. When I’m ready to bake, I simply assemble everything with the freshly risen dough.

Can I freeze the dessert pizza?

I can freeze the baked dessert pizza without the caramel drizzle for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and adding fresh caramel.

How do I keep the crust from becoming soggy?

I cook the apple filling until most of the excess moisture has evaporated before spreading it over the dough. This helps the crust bake evenly and stay tender without becoming soggy.

Conclusion

I always enjoy serving this Caramel Apple Dessert Pizza because it brings together everything I love about homemade comfort desserts. The soft cinnamon dough, warm apple filling, buttery streusel, and silky salted caramel create an unforgettable combination of flavors and textures. Whether I make it for a family gathering, holiday celebration, or a cozy weekend treat, this dessert always disappears quickly and leaves everyone asking for another slice.

---

📖 Recipe:

Print