Cactus Bread {Copycat Recipe} (2024)

Cactus Bread is a sweet, soft, slightly spiced dessert pizza that folks who go to Pizza Ranch restaurant make a special point to get! The actual Pizza Ranch recipe is a closely guarded secret, but I think this version is just as delicious! It starts with a light and airy focaccia crust topped with cinnamon butter and a delightful crumble topping that will leave everyone craving more! I also have an Apple Dessert Pizza that you will love!

What is Cactus Bread?

Cactus Breadis the name given to the cinnamon-sugar glazed signature dessert pizza found at The Pizza Ranch restaurants. It’s a delicious blend of cinnamon, sugar, and sweet glaze, all on top of a soft crust. But, don’t just enjoy it for dessert! It is a wonderful treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee, as a snack, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Ingredients & Substitutions

Crust: We finally nailed the cactus bread with this crust. And, I do mean finally…we have tested this recipe more times than I care to count! For the softest crust that was the closest to the original, we used a modified recipe of my Focaccia bread. (We took out the Italian seasoning and garlic.) After a side-by-side comparison with cactus bread from the restaurant, this was one by far the winner in both taste and texture.

Cinnamon Butter Topping: This couldn’t be easier. Take butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon and put into a microwave-safe dish. Heat for 20-30 seconds then stir. Using a pastry brush, get an even layer all over the semi-baked dough. You may think that the layer looks a little thin, but trust me, it’s enough.

Crumble: Arguably, this is my favorite part of cactus bread and what I spent a lot of time perfecting. I settled on the same crumble that I use for my Blueberry Lemon Loaf. It is perfect and goes perfectly with this recipe.

Glaze: The glaze is simply confectioners’ sugar and milk. Take a cup of confectioners’ sugar and 1-2 tablespoons of milk. (I prefer whole milk.) Start with 1 tablespoon then add more milk as needed to reach a loosed consistency. Pour the glaze over the warm cactus bread.

Can I use Store-Bought Pizza Dough?

Yes! If you have pizza dough to use, that would work. Bake the dough for 6 minutes at the oven temperature suggested on the pizza dough packaging. Next, remove it from the oven and add the toppings. Put the baking dish back in the oven to bake for an additional 12 minutes (or until the pizza crust is cooked). Let the bread sit for a few minutes before drizzling the glaze.

Can I Use A Different Pan?

Sure! Although a pizza pan is a traditional pan for a dessert pizza, it still tastes just as delicious when made in a different pan! I would recommend a 9×13-inch baking dish. Or, for a thicker crust, a 9×11-inch baking dish would also work. Another idea is to use an oven-safe skillet like cast iron. However, baking times may have to be adjusted if using a different pan.

Can I Add Toppings To Cactus Bread?

Sure! The classic recipe for cactus bread is known for its cinnamon butter, crumble, and glaze, but you could certainly add toppings. Try it with your favorite fruits or top with nuts (like walnuts, pecans, or almonds) for an added crunch to each bite.

How To Store Cactus Bread

Although best served on the day the cactus bread is baked, don’t let any leftovers go to waste! Once cooled to room temperature, store slices of cactus bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or in the microwave.