Name: Copycat Pizza Hut Cinnamon Sticks with Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought); 1/2 cup sugar (granulated); 2 teaspoons cinnamon (ground); 1/3 cup butter or margarine (melted); 2 ounces cream cheese (softened); 2 ounces butter (room temperature); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons milk

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If you’ve ever indulged in the warm, gooey goodness of Pizza Hut’s cinnamon sticks, you know they are a heavenly treat that pairs perfectly with a movie night or a cozy evening in. The good news is that you can recreate this delightful dessert right in your own kitchen with this simple recipe for Copycat Pizza Hut Cinnamon Sticks with Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting. Not only is it easier than you think, but it also allows you to enjoy this sweet treat anytime you crave it. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get baking!

Why It Works Every Time

This recipe for Copycat Pizza Hut Cinnamon Sticks with Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting works so well because it combines a perfectly soft and chewy pizza dough with a delicious cinnamon-sugar mixture, creating that signature flavor and texture. The addition of the vanilla cream cheese frosting elevates the cinnamon sticks to a whole new level, marrying the warm, spiced goodness with a creamy, sweet finish that you’ll want to savor. The balance of flavors, along with the ease of preparation, makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser every time.

Your Shopping Guide

Before you dive into making these delightful cinnamon sticks, here’s what you’ll need to gather:

1 pound pizza dough – You can make your own or buy pre-made dough from the store.
1/2 cup sugar – Granulated sugar works best for that sweet crunch.
2 teaspoons cinnamon – Ground cinnamon is essential for that classic flavor.
1/3 cup butter or margarine, melted – Adds richness to the dough and topping.
2 ounces cream cheese, softened – A must for a creamy frosting.
2 ounces butter, room temperature – For a smooth and spreadable frosting.
1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting to perfection.
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
2 teaspoons milk – Helps achieve the right consistency for the frosting.

Appliances & Accessories

To make these Copycat Pizza Hut Cinnamon Sticks with Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need a few key tools:

Mixing bowl – For combining your ingredients.
Baking sheet – To bake your cinnamon sticks.
Parchment paper – Makes for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Whisk or electric mixer – To whip up the frosting smoothly.
Rolling pin – To roll out the pizza dough evenly.

How to Prepare Copycat Pizza Hut Cinnamon Sticks with Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting

Follow these simple steps to create your own Copycat Pizza Hut Cinnamon Sticks with Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you are using store-bought pizza dough, remove it from the packaging and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This will make it easier to roll out.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Try to keep the dough as even as possible for uniform baking.

Step 3: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon until well combined. This mixture will give your cinnamon sticks that signature sweet and spicy flavor.

Step 4: Add the Butter

Brush the melted butter or margarine over the rolled-out dough, ensuring it covers the entire surface. This will help the cinnamon-sugar topping adhere to the dough.

Step 5: Sprinkle the Cinnamon Sugar

Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough, making sure to cover every inch.

Step 6: Cut the Cinnamon Sticks

Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, slice the dough into strips about 1 inch wide. You can make them as long or as short as you like, but keeping them uniform will help them bake evenly.

Step 7: Bake the Cinnamon Sticks

Place the cinnamon sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and fragrant.

Step 8: Prepare the Frosting

While the cinnamon sticks are baking, prepare the vanilla cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, room temperature butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Beat with a whisk or electric mixer until smooth and creamy.

Step 9: Frost the Cinnamon Sticks

Once the cinnamon sticks are out of the oven and slightly cooled, generously spread the vanilla cream cheese frosting over the warm sticks. The heat will help the frosting melt into the crevices, making it irresistibly delicious.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Cut the frosted sticks apart (if they are still connected) and serve warm. These Copycat Pizza Hut Cinnamon Sticks with Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they will also stay delicious for a couple of days if stored properly.

Quick Replacement Ideas

If you’re missing some ingredients or want to customize your recipe, here are some quick replacement ideas:

Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
Substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar for a deeper flavor.
Try a different extract, like almond, for a unique twist on the frosting.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Avoid These Mistakes

To ensure your Copycat Pizza Hut Cinnamon Sticks with Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting come out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

Don’t skip the resting time for the dough; it makes it easier to roll out.
Be careful not to overbake the cinnamon sticks; they should be golden, not dark brown.
Make sure your butter is melted but not hot when brushing it onto the dough.
Allow the frosting to come to room temperature before mixing for a smoother consistency.

Storing Tips & Timelines

To keep your cinnamon sticks fresh and delicious, follow these storing tips:

Store any leftover cinnamon sticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.
To reheat, place them in a microwave for a few seconds or in a warm oven until heated through.
The frosting can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to a week; just give it a good stir before using it again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought frosting instead of making my own?

Absolutely! Using store-bought frosting can save time, but homemade frosting adds a personal touch that enhances the flavor.

What type of pizza dough should I use?

You can use homemade pizza dough or store-bought. Look for a brand that’s fresh and high-quality for the best results.

Can I freeze the cinnamon sticks?

Yes, you can freeze unbaked cinnamon sticks. Simply place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How can I make these cinnamon sticks healthier?

For a healthier version, consider using whole wheat flour for the dough and reducing the sugar in the frosting. You can also use a sugar substitute if desired.

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Make It Tonight

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked Copycat Pizza Hut Cinnamon Sticks with Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting wafting through your home. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a delicious dessert that rivals your favorite pizzeria. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and make these delightful cinnamon sticks tonight!