Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza Recipe
If you love classic desserts with a fun twist, then you absolutely need to try this Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza Recipe. Combining the rich, chewy texture of freshly baked cookie dough with the smooth, tangy creaminess of cheesecake, this dessert pizza offers the best of both worlds. It’s a show-stopping treat that bakes up with a golden crust and finishes with delightful chocolate chip and cookie dough toppings, guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfy sweet cravings at any gathering or cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza Recipe calls for simple, classic ingredients that come together to create a spectacular combination of flavors and textures. Each ingredient plays a special role, from the buttery cookie crust to the velvety cheesecake layer and those irresistible chocolate toppings.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for the cookie dough crust, giving it structure and a tender crumb.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookie dough rise slightly and maintain a soft bite.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture to the cookie base.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the crust.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Lightens the texture and adds a touch of crispness.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the cookie dough together and add richness.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with warm, comforting flavor.
- 1 cup chocolate chips: Classic sweet bursts of melty chocolate in every bite.
- 1 8oz package cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient for the creamy cheesecake layer.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the cheesecake filling.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Whipped into the filling for a luscious, airy texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the cheesecake’s rich flavor.
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (for topping): Adds a fun crunch and extra chocolate punch.
- 1/4 cup cookie dough chunks (for topping): Keeps the cookie dough theme alive with little bites of raw dough on top.
How to Make Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and greasing a 9-inch deep dish pizza pan or a similarly sized baking dish. This will give you the perfect vessel for your cookie dough crust and ensure even baking without sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures your leavening agents and seasoning are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough, leading to a consistent texture and flavor.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
Using a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined. This process is key for a tender and moist cookie crust, so take your time to get it just right.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Incorporate the eggs into the creamed mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition to keep the batter light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract for fragrant depth that will make your dessert smell heavenly.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until everything is just combined—overmixing can make the crust tough. Then fold in the chocolate chips to infuse every bite with delightful chocolate pockets.
Step 6: Bake the Cookie Dough Crust
Spread the cookie dough mixture evenly into your prepared pizza pan, pressing down lightly to form an even crust. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the edges turn invitingly golden brown. After baking, set the crust aside to cool completely before the next step.
Step 7: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
While the crust cools, whip up the cheesecake layer by beating softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, then beat until the mixture is luxuriously creamy and light, perfect for spreading.
Step 8: Assemble the Pizza
Evenly spread the cheesecake filling over the cooled cookie dough crust layer. This smooth, dreamy layer perfectly contrasts the cookie’s slightly firmer texture beneath.
Step 9: Add the Toppings and Chill
Sprinkle mini chocolate chips and cookie dough chunks on top, giving your dessert pizza a playful and indulgent finish. Refrigerate for at least two hours to let the cheesecake set beautifully, making slicing neat and serving easier.
How to Serve Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, garnish your cookie dough cheesecake pizza with a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar. Fresh berries can add a pop of color and a tart balance that complements the sweetness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dessert is rich and indulgent on its own, but pairing it with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk rounds out the experience for those who love classic comfort combinations. A light, fruity salad can also provide a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve slices of this Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza on a rustic wooden board for a casual gathering or dress it up on a fine china platter for special occasions. You can also cut it into smaller squares as bite-sized treats for parties or afternoon snacks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover slices can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping it chilled ensures that the cheesecake layer stays firm and the cookie base maintains its delightful texture.
Freezing
This dessert freezes wonderfully if you want to prepare it ahead of time. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Reheating
Because of the cheesecake topping, it’s best to enjoy this dessert cold or at room temperature. If you’d like a warmed slice, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes rather than microwaving, which may affect texture.
FAQs
Can I use pre-made cookie dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using pre-made cookie dough can save time and still yield delicious results. Just make sure it’s a brand that you enjoy and check that it contains similar ingredients so the texture remains balanced beneath the cheesecake layer.
Is this dessert suitable for parties and gatherings?
Definitely! The Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza Recipe makes an impressive centerpiece dessert that easily serves multiple people. The combination of cookie and cheesecake is a crowd-pleaser that works great for birthdays, holidays, or casual get-togethers.
Can I substitute the chocolate chips with other mix-ins?
Yes, you can customize this dessert to your liking by swapping chocolate chips for nuts, white chocolate chips, or even dried fruit. Just keep in mind that some mix-ins may alter the texture and sweetness slightly.
How thick should I spread the cookie dough crust?
For the best results, aim for an even layer about half an inch thick in the pan. This thickness bakes evenly and provides a sturdy base that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheesecake topping.
What can I use instead of heavy cream in the cheesecake filling?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can try substituting with full-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture, although it may slightly alter the flavor and richness. Whipping cream yields the best airy consistency, but alternatives can work in a pinch.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about combining cookie dough and cheesecake in one luscious, deep dish pizza format. This Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza Recipe is a guaranteed winner that brings joy with every bite and brings people together around the table. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a decadent treat, don’t hesitate to give this unique dessert a try—you’ll be delighted by how easily it becomes a new favorite.
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Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza combines the best of two dessert worlds: a rich, chewy cookie dough crust baked to golden perfection and a luscious, creamy cheesecake topping. Finished with mini chocolate chips and chunks of cookie dough, this decadent dessert pizza is perfect for sharing and sure to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Cheesecake Filling and Topping
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (for topping)
- 1/4 cup cookie dough chunks (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch deep dish pizza pan or a similarly sized baking dish to ensure the cookie dough crust does not stick.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition to incorporate. Stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips evenly throughout the cookie dough.
- Form and Bake Cookie Dough Crust: Spread the cookie dough mixture evenly into the prepared pizza pan, pressing it down firmly to form a crust layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before adding the cheesecake layer.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: While the cookie crust cools, beat the softened cream cheese in a bowl until smooth. Add powdered sugar, heavy cream, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until creamy and smooth, forming the cheesecake filling.
- Assemble Cheesecake Pizza: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled cookie dough crust, creating a smooth top layer.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips and chunks of cookie dough evenly over the cheesecake topping for added texture and flavor.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours to allow the cheesecake layer to set firmly. Slice into wedges and enjoy this indulgent dessert pizza!
Notes
- Ensure the cookie dough crust cools completely before spreading the cheesecake filling to prevent melting.
- You can make the cookie dough chunks by setting aside a small portion of the dough before baking.
- For easier slicing, chill the dessert longer than 2 hours if possible.
- This dessert can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream for the best texture and flavor in the cheesecake topping.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
