
Transform an ordinary pizza crust into a decadent dessert with this irresistible chocolate chip dessert pizza. The genius combination of yellow cake mix and pizza dough creates a cookie-like base that's crispy on the edges yet perfectly chewy in the middle. Topped with melted chocolate chips and a sweet sugar crust, it's a crowd-pleasing treat that comes together in minutes.
This recipe emerged from a busy weeknight experiment when traditional dessert ingredients were scarce. Now it's become a go-to favorite at potlucks and parties, consistently outshining even traditional pizzas with its irresistible appeal.
Essential Ingredients
- Refrigerated pizza dough: The perfect foundation that provides structure and chewiness.
- Yellow cake mix: Use dry mix directly from box for ideal cookie texture.
- Melted butter: Creates richness and helps achieve golden edges.
- Chocolate chips: Choose milk or semi-sweet based on sweetness preference.
- Sugar blend: Combination of granulated and brown sugar for perfect caramelization.

Essential Techniques
- Base preparation
- Pierce dough thoroughly with fork to prevent air bubbles.
- Initial baking
- Brief pre-bake ensures crisp, never soggy crust.
- Topping application
- Use gentle pressure to spread thick cake mixture evenly.
- Chip placement
- Press chocolate chips slightly into surface for even melting.
- Sugar application
- Keep sugar away from edges to prevent burning.
- Final baking
- Monitor closely until golden brown with melted chocolate.
After extensive testing, the cake mix topping proved superior to traditional cookie dough versions, offering ideal texture and weight. The sugar topping adds essential crunch and visual appeal, elevating this dessert from good to exceptional.
Presentation Options
Enhance with vanilla ice cream for a warm-and-cold contrast. Cut into small squares for buffet service. Customize with colorful sprinkles for festive occasions.
Recipe Variations
Experiment with chocolate cake mix for intense chocolate flavor. Add mini marshmallows for a s'mores variation. Finish with warm caramel drizzle for added decadence.

This versatile dessert pizza bridges the gap between casual and elegant entertaining. Its familiar flavors in an innovative format consistently earn rave reviews, while its simplicity makes it a reliable choice for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap store-bought dough for homemade dough?
- Definitely! Use your favorite pizza dough recipe, and make sure to poke holes and pre-bake the crust before adding toppings as directed.
- → What’s a good alternative to yellow cake mix?
- You can use vanilla cake mix, sugar cookie mix, or even chocolate cake mix if you’d like. For a richer flavor, try adding white chocolate chips or milk chocolate chips.
- → Can I add my favorite toppings to the dessert pizza?
- Of course! Sprinkle on nuts, candy pieces like M&Ms, marshmallows, or even drizzle on caramel or chocolate syrup after baking. Sliced fruits like strawberries work great too.
- → What’s the best way to save leftover dessert pizza?
- Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for 4 days. To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.
- → Why do I need to poke the crust with a fork?
- This step keeps the dough from puffing up unevenly. It ensures the crust stays flat and bakes evenly under the toppings.