Description

Ever wondered what happens when you combine the gooey goodness of cookie dough with the creamy decadence of cheesecake, all in a pizza-shaped dessert? What if you could whip it up in under 40 minutes for a showstopping treat? Say hello to Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza! This indulgent dessert features a chocolate chip cookie base, a velvety cheesecake layer, and a drizzle of caramel sauce, perfect for parties, game nights, or satisfying your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

Refrigerated Cookie Dough (1 roll, typically 16.5 oz): Forms the chewy, chocolate chip-filled base, saving time compared to homemade dough.
Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates a rich, tangy cheesecake layer that balances the sweet cookie base.
Sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the cheesecake layer without overpowering the other flavors.
Egg (1): Binds the cheesecake layer and adds a smooth, creamy texture.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Enhances the cheesecake with a warm, sweet note.
Chocolate Chips (½ cup): Add bursts of chocolatey goodness throughout the dessert.
Caramel Sauce (¼ cup): Provides a buttery, sweet drizzle that ties the flavors together.

Substitutions and Variations

Cookie Dough: Use homemade chocolate chip cookie dough (about 1 lb) or try sugar cookie or peanut butter cookie dough for a different flavor. Gluten-free cookie dough works for dietary needs.
Cream Cheese: Low-fat cream cheese can be used for a lighter version, or vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
Sugar: Swap with brown sugar for a caramel-like depth or a sugar substitute (like erythritol) for a lower-sugar version.
Egg: For an egg-free version, use ¼ cup silken tofu or a commercial egg replacer.
Chocolate Chips: Replace with white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or chopped nuts for variety.
Caramel Sauce: Use chocolate sauce, salted caramel, or a fruit compote (like raspberry) for a different drizzle.

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Instructions

Prepare the Pizza Pan:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 12-inch pizza pan (or a 9–10-inch springform pan for a thicker dessert) with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Tip: Line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal and cleanup.
Form the Cookie Dough Base:
- Open 1 roll of refrigerated cookie dough and press it evenly into the greased pizza pan, creating a uniform layer that reaches the edges.
- Smooth the surface with your hands or a spatula for an even base.
- Tip: If the dough is sticky, lightly flour your hands or chill the dough for 10 minutes before pressing.
Make the Cheesecake Layer:
- In a medium bowl, combine 8 oz softened cream cheese, ¼ cup sugar, 1 egg, and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
- Beat with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy, about 1–2 minutes, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Tip: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened (at room temperature) to avoid a lumpy texture.
Assemble the Pizza:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cookie dough base, leaving a small border (about ¼ inch) around the edges if desired for a crispy cookie rim.
- Sprinkle ½ cup chocolate chips evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Tip: Spread the cheesecake layer gently to avoid disturbing the cookie dough underneath.
Bake the Pizza:
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the edges of the cookie dough are golden brown and the cheesecake layer is set (slightly firm to the touch but not jiggly).
- Check at 20 minutes, as ovens vary, to avoid overbaking.
- Remove from the oven and place on a wire rack.
- Tip: If the center looks underdone, bake for an additional 2–3 minutes, but avoid overcooking to keep the cheesecake creamy.
Add the Caramel Drizzle:
- While the pizza is still warm, drizzle ¼ cup caramel sauce evenly over the top, using a spoon or squeeze bottle for a decorative pattern.
- Tip: Warm the caramel sauce slightly if it’s too thick to drizzle easily.
Cool and Slice:
- Let the pizza cool for 10 minutes to set, making it easier to slice.
- Slice into 8–10 wedges using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat slices.
- Tip: For cleaner cuts, chill the pizza for 15–20 minutes before slicing, but serve at room temperature or slightly warm for the best texture.
Serve:
- Serve the slices on plates or napkins for a casual, shareable dessert.
- Optional: Garnish with extra chocolate chips, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
- Tip: Pair with a glass of milk, coffee, or hot cocoa for a perfect dessert experience.