Intro
If you’ve ever thought pizza was just for savory cravings, think again. The Bavarian Cream Pizza Recipe is my favorite sweet twist on a classic, and it’s an indulgence you won’t soon forget.
As a home chef who loves experimenting, this recipe has quickly become a showstopper at brunches, dessert tables, or any time I feel like treating myself and my friends to something special.
The first bite is heavenly—soft, slightly crisp crust, a luscious layer of vanilla-scented Bavarian cream, and a drizzle of fresh fruits or chocolate for that finishing touch. I promise you, this isn’t your average dessert.
It’s a pizza with personality, elegance, and an extra creamy punch. By the end of this post, you’ll have all the details you need to make this beauty in your own kitchen.
What is Bavarian Cream Pizza Recipe?
Bavarian Cream Pizza is a dessert pizza that combines the best elements of pastry and pizza. Instead of tomato sauce and cheese, we use a sweet, custard-like Bavarian cream as the base. The dough is slightly sweet and tender, baked to golden perfection, while the cream topping is smooth, airy, and lightly flavored with vanilla.
This dessert pizza can be customized with fruits like berries, kiwi, and mango, or even drizzled with chocolate or caramel. The combination of soft crust, creamy filling, and sweet toppings makes it a versatile dish suitable for celebrations, brunches, or a decadent treat any day.
Equipment List
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet or pizza pan
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater (if using chocolate garnish)
- Oven mitts
Nothing fancy is needed—just basics you probably already own.
Recipe Card Info
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serves: 6
Cuisine: European
Course: Dessert
Calories: Approximately 450 per slice
Ingredients
For the Pizza Dough:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- ½ cup warm milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg
For the Bavarian Cream:
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
- ¼ cup cold water
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
For the Toppings:
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Kiwi slices or other fruit (optional)
- Chocolate shavings or drizzle (optional)
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions (Step by Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add butter, egg, and yeast mixture. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Bavarian Cream
Sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk until just below boiling. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch. Slowly pour hot milk into the yolk mixture while whisking constantly. Return to saucepan and cook over medium heat until thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and gelatin. Let cool slightly, then fold in whipped cream gently.
Step 3: Assemble the Pizza Base
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on parchment paper to desired pizza size. Transfer to baking sheet or pizza pan. Bake for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden. Cool completely.
Step 4: Spread the Cream
Evenly spread the Bavarian cream over the cooled pizza crust, smoothing with a spatula. Make sure it’s thick but not overflowing the edges.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Decorate with fresh fruits, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of chocolate/caramel. Finish with a few mint leaves for a pop of color.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the cream set. Slice and serve chilled.
Tips From My Kitchen
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh fruits make a huge difference in flavor and presentation.
2. Whip the Cream Just Right
Soft peaks are ideal. Over-whipping can make the cream grainy.
3. Cool the Base Completely
Hot crust will melt the Bavarian cream and make it runny.
4. Customize Flavors
Add a hint of lemon zest to the cream for a refreshing twist.
Flavor Profile: What It Tastes Like
This dessert pizza is creamy, smooth, and lightly sweet. The dough provides a tender, slightly chewy base, while the vanilla-scented Bavarian cream is airy and rich. Fresh fruit adds a refreshing, tangy contrast, and optional chocolate or caramel brings an extra indulgent layer. It’s delicate, decadent, and visually stunning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this as a centerpiece dessert at brunches, tea parties, or family gatherings. Pair with fresh fruit juice, champagne, or coffee for the ultimate sweet experience.
Storage and Reheating
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze, as the cream texture will be compromised. Serve chilled.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not blooming gelatin properly
- Spreading cream on warm crust
- Over-whipping the cream
- Using too acidic fruits that can curdle the cream
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the cream ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the Bavarian cream and refrigerate for up to a day before assembling the pizza.
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Absolutely, just roll it out and bake as instructed.
Can this be made gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free pizza crust recipe.
Final Thoughts
The Bavarian Cream Pizza Recipe is one of those dishes that surprises everyone who tries it. It’s elegant yet approachable, indulgent but light enough to enjoy at any occasion.
Whether you serve it at brunch, a special dessert night, or just because, this sweet pizza brings a smile with every bite. As a chef who loves blending classic techniques with creative twists, I can’t recommend this enough—get ready to wow your friends, family, and taste buds alike.
Bavarian Cream Pizza Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Rolling Pin
- Baking sheet or pizza pan
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Cheese grater (if using chocolate garnish)
- Oven mitts
Ingredients
For the Pizza Dough:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- ½ cup warm milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
- 1 egg
For the Bavarian Cream:
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
- ¼ cup cold water
- 1 cup heavy cream whipped
For the Toppings:
- Fresh berries strawberries, blueberries, raspberries
- Kiwi slices or other fruit optional
- Chocolate shavings or drizzle optional
- Mint leaves for garnish optional
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add butter, egg, and yeast mixture. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Bavarian Cream
- Sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk until just below boiling. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch. Slowly pour hot milk into the yolk mixture while whisking constantly. Return to saucepan and cook over medium heat until thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and gelatin. Let cool slightly, then fold in whipped cream gently.
Step 3: Assemble the Pizza Base
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on parchment paper to desired pizza size. Transfer to baking sheet or pizza pan. Bake for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden. Cool completely.
Step 4: Spread the Cream
- Evenly spread the Bavarian cream over the cooled pizza crust, smoothing with a spatula. Make sure it’s thick but not overflowing the edges.
Step 5: Add Toppings
- Decorate with fresh fruits, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of chocolate/caramel. Finish with a few mint leaves for a pop of color.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the cream set. Slice and serve chilled.
Hi, I’m Olivia Brooks! Cooking is my passion, and I love turning everyday ingredients into meals that bring joy to the table. On CulinaryPearl, I share simple recipes, helpful kitchen tips, and inspiration for food lovers everywhere