Save A decadent dessert pizza featuring a salty-sweet pretzel crust, creamy caramel sauce, sliced apples, and a sprinkle of sea salt&a perfect fall treat or party dessert.
I first made this caramel apple pizza for a family game night and it quickly disappeared from the table. The buttery pretzel crust adds just the right crunch, and the fresh apples pair perfectly with rich caramel sauce.
Ingredients
- Pretzel Crust: 1 1/2 cups (180 g) crushed salted pretzels, 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter (melted), 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar
- Toppings: 3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, cored and thinly sliced), 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 3/4 cup (180 ml) caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling), 4 ounces (115 g) cream cheese (softened), 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
- Optional Garnishes: 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped toasted pecans, extra pretzel pieces (crushed)
Instructions
- Prepare Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10-inch (25 cm) pizza pan or baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make Pretzel Crust:
- In a bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until evenly combined.
- Form and Bake Crust:
- Press mixture firmly into prepared pan, forming an even crust about 1/4-inch thick. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until set and golden. Let cool completely.
- Prep Apples:
- Toss apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning. Set aside.
- Beat Cream Cheese:
- In medium bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy.
- Layer Toppings:
- Once crust is cool, spread cream cheese mixture evenly over surface.
- Add Apples:
- Arrange apple slices in concentric circles or decorative pattern over cream cheese layer.
- Add Caramel & Sea Salt:
- Drizzle caramel sauce generously over apples. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Optional Garnishes:
- Add chopped pecans and extra pretzel pieces if desired.
- Chill & Serve:
- Chill at least 15 minutes before slicing. Drizzle with additional caramel just before serving if you like.
Save My kids always ask for extra caramel drizzle on their slices, and it's become our tradition to serve this pizza after apple picking each autumn.
Required Tools
10-inch pizza pan or baking sheet, parchment paper, mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, knife and cutting board, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter, cream cheese), gluten (pretzels), and tree nuts (pecans, if used). For gluten-free, use gluten-free pretzels. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 320 calories, 17 g total fat, 41 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein
Save This caramel apple pizza always brings smiles at our fall gatherings. Try serving it chilled or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for even more indulgence.
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I use different apples for the crust?
Yes, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp works well, but you may use any apple that holds its shape and provides a sweet-tart balance.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute gluten-free pretzels for traditional pretzels to create a gluten-free version.
- → What other toppings pair well with this dish?
Pears, toasted pecans, extra pretzel pieces, vanilla ice cream, or whipped cream all make excellent additions.
- → How do I prevent apples from browning?
Toss sliced apples with lemon juice immediately after cutting to keep them fresh and vibrant.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Cover and refrigerate up to 2 days to maintain freshness. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
- → Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
Yes. Assemble up to 1 day ahead and keep refrigerated. Add caramel or garnishes just before serving.