The Ultimate Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza Recipe
Have you ever dreamed of combining three of the world’s most beloved desserts into one magnificent creation? This Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza is that dream come true—a decadent layered dessert that brings together the chewy goodness of cookie dough, the creamy richness of cheesecake, and the fun, shareable format of pizza. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Whether you’re planning a special celebration or simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, this indulgent dessert is guaranteed to impress. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make at home!
Why You’ll Love This Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza
✅ Perfect blend of three classic desserts: cookies, cheesecake, and pizza in one incredible treat
✅ Make-ahead friendly—prepare components in advance for easy assembly
✅ Customizable with your favorite mix-ins and toppings
✅ Great for birthdays, holidays, or anytime you need a show-stopping dessert
✅ No complicated techniques—simple steps yield impressive results
✅ Feeds a crowd and can be sliced pizza-style for serving
✅ Creates unforgettable pizza night memories with a sweet twist
Looking for the best way to make Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza at home? This quick and easy Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen!
Ingredients for Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza
For the Cookie Dough Base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chocolate sauce or ganache
- Whipped cream (optional)
Equipment Needed:
- 12-inch deep dish pizza pan or springform pan
- Electric mixer (stand or hand mixer)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Dietary Alternatives:
- For gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
- For dairy-free: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free cream cheese, and dairy-free chocolate chips
- Reduce sugar content by using 2/3 the amount called for if preferred
How to Make Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza – Step by Step
Preparing the Cookie Dough Base
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 12-inch deep dish pizza pan or springform pan with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract until well incorporated.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined.
Step 5: Fold in 1 1/2 cups of the chocolate chips, reserving the rest for later use.
Step 6: Press approximately 2/3 of the cookie dough into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the prepared pan to create a “pizza crust.” Set aside the remaining dough for topping.
Pro Tip: Slightly dampen your fingers with water to prevent the dough from sticking when pressing it into the pan.
Creating the Cheesecake Layer
Step 7: In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
Step 8: Add sugar to the cream cheese and beat until well combined.
Step 9: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Step 10: Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 11: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cookie dough base, spreading evenly.
Adding the Toppings
Step 12: Take the remaining cookie dough and break it into small pieces. Gently place them over the top of the cheesecake layer, creating a rustic, spotty coverage.
Step 13: Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips over the top.
Step 14: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Step 15: Remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) before serving.
Step 16: Before serving, drizzle with chocolate sauce and add dollops of whipped cream if desired.
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Pro Tips for the Best Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza
- Room temperature ingredients: Allow butter, eggs, and cream cheese to come to room temperature for the smoothest, most consistent results.
- Don’t rush the cooling: This dessert needs proper cooling time to set fully. Rushing this step can result in a runny center.
- Perfect slicing technique: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water (and wiped dry) between each slice for clean, picture-perfect servings.
- Creative variations:
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough
- Swirl in caramel or peanut butter to the cheesecake layer
- Use white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips instead of semi-sweet
- Add crumbled Oreos or graham crackers between layers
- Make-ahead magic: You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before pressing into the pan.
Best Ways to Serve Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza
The best way to serve Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza is slightly chilled, cut into pizza-style triangular slices. For an extra-special presentation:
- Top individual slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Serve with additional warm chocolate sauce for drizzling
- Create a dessert bar with various toppings like caramel sauce, crushed candy, sprinkles, and whipped cream
- Pair with glasses of cold milk, coffee, or dessert wine for adults
This dessert is perfect for:
- Birthday celebrations
- Holiday gatherings
- Potlucks and family reunions
- Special dinner parties
- Game day dessert tables
Nutritional Information
Per slice (assuming 12 slices per pizza):
Calories: 520
Protein: 7g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 63g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 44g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and exact measurements used. For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and decreasing the sugar by 1/4 cup in each component.
Storage & Leftovers
This Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. Here’s how to store it properly:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: For a warm cookie effect, microwave refrigerated slices for 10-15 seconds—just enough to take the chill off without melting the cheesecake layer.
FAQs About Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza
Can I make this Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza without a special pizza pan?
Absolutely! A 9-inch or 10-inch springform pan works perfectly for this recipe. You can even use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper for easy removal. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the pan size, so keep an eye on it during baking.
Why did my cheesecake layer crack?
Cracking can occur if the cheesecake is overbaked or experiences sudden temperature changes. To prevent cracks: don’t overmix the cheesecake batter, bake with a water bath (place a pan of water on a lower rack), and allow the dessert to cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open.
Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! This is an excellent make-ahead dessert. Prepare it 1-2 days before your event and keep it refrigerated until about 30 minutes before serving. The flavors actually improve after the dessert has had time to chill completely.
What’s the secret to getting clean slices when serving?
For picture-perfect slices, refrigerate the dessert thoroughly (at least 4 hours or overnight), use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each cut, and cut with a gentle sawing motion rather than pushing down.
Conclusion
This Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza combines the best of three beloved desserts into one irresistible creation that’s sure to become a family favorite. The contrast between the chewy cookie base, creamy cheesecake middle, and chocolate-studded top creates a symphony of textures and flavors that will delight everyone lucky enough to get a slice.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility—you can easily customize it with your favorite mix-ins and toppings to create a signature dessert that’s uniquely yours. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth in spectacular fashion.
Have you tried making this Deep Dish Cookie Dough Cheesecake Pizza? Share your experience or variations in the comments below!