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This crowd-pleasing dessert brings together two classic flavors - chocolate and peanut butter - in a giant cookie pizza format. The concept came from a last-minute party dessert need and has since become a requested favorite at gatherings. The edges develop a perfect crisp while the center stays deliciously soft, creating an ideal base for warm peanut butter topping.
A true crowd-pleaser, this dessert pizza has converted even the most disciplined dessert-avoiders. The combination of textures and flavors creates an irresistible treat that leaves everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Store-bought cookie dough - provides consistent results and perfect spreading texture
- Traditional creamy peanut butter - avoid natural varieties for best spreading
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips - creates perfect melty pockets throughout
- Mini peanut butter cups, halved - adds decadent peanut butter layers
- Assorted candy toppings - provides color and texture contrast
- Roasted peanuts, chopped - adds essential crunch and salt balance
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Preparation Steps
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Lightly grease a pizza pan with cooking spray.
Press cookie dough evenly across pan surface using lightly floured hands.
Bake 20-22 minutes until edges turn golden while center remains slightly soft.
Cool for 8-10 minutes - just enough to set but still warm.
Spread peanut butter layer while cookie base remains warm.
Add toppings evenly across surface.
Slice while still slightly warm for cleanest cuts.
This recipe proves that sometimes the simplest combinations create the most memorable desserts. The warm, gooey texture paired with crunchy toppings offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
Present on a pizza stone for authentic appeal. Consider offering warm chocolate sauce for drizzling. Create a dessert bar setup with ice cream and additional toppings for interactive serving.
Variations
Substitute sun butter for nut-free version. Seasonal adaptations work well - try crushed candy canes and white chocolate drizzle for holidays. Customize candy toppings to match event themes or team colors.
Storage
Store covered at room temperature for 24 hours or refrigerate up to three days. Texture firms when chilled. Briefly microwave individual slices to restore original warm texture.
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This proven recipe consistently delivers outstanding results and creates memorable dessert moments. The classic flavor combination of chocolate and peanut butter, enhanced by varied textures and temperatures, makes this treat a guaranteed success at any gathering.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap the cookie dough for a homemade version?
- Absolutely! Homemade chocolate chip cookie dough works just as well. Just make sure it's thick enough to hold its shape as a base.
- → What’s the best way to store leftovers?
- Keep it loosely covered with foil at room temp for a day or two. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- → Is it okay to make this dessert ahead?
- You can bake the cookie crust earlier, but add the toppings just after it cools for about 10 minutes so the heat helps the chocolate melt.
- → Are there alternatives to peanut butter?
- Sure! Swap in Nutella, almond butter, or cookie butter for a flavor twist or to avoid peanuts.
- → Why isn’t my cookie base baking evenly?
- Spread the dough evenly on the pan to avoid thin areas. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them lightly with foil so the center can finish baking.