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This chocolate-peanut butter dessert pizza has become a signature crowd-pleaser at family gatherings. The foundation is a perfectly baked giant chocolate chip cookie topped with creamy peanut butter and an array of candies. The edges develop a satisfying crispness while the center stays delightfully soft, and the warm peanut butter creates an irresistible melty layer.
This dessert consistently draws praise at gatherings, from casual backyard parties to special celebrations. The combination of familiar flavors in an unexpected format makes it memorable and frequently requested.
Essential Ingredients
- Store-bought cookie dough provides consistent results and proper spreading
- Regular creamy peanut butter maintains stability when warm
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips create pockets of melted chocolate
- Halved mini peanut butter cups add decadent filling
- Decorative candy pieces provide visual appeal
- Chopped peanuts introduce texture and savory balance
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Preparation Method
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Lightly grease a pizza pan.
Press cookie dough evenly across pan surface, using floured hands if needed.
Bake for 20-22 minutes until edges are golden but center remains soft.
Cool briefly for 10 minutes.
Spread peanut butter over warm cookie base.
Add toppings generously across surface.
Slice while slightly warm.
This recipe emerged from a last-minute potluck solution and has since become a trusted dessert staple. Its simplicity and crowd-pleasing nature make it perfect for any gathering.
Presentation Suggestions
A pizza stone makes an elegant serving platform. Consider offering warm chocolate sauce for drizzling. For special occasions, create a dessert bar with ice cream and additional toppings.
Variations
Use sunflower butter for allergen-free versions. Seasonal adaptations work well - try crushed peppermint during holidays or team-colored candies for sports events.
Storage
Store covered at room temperature for one day or refrigerated for three days. The texture firms when chilled. Briefly microwave to restore original warmth.
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After years of making this dessert pizza, it continues to delight guests. The classic combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and cookie base creates an undeniably appealing treat that brings people together.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Is homemade cookie dough okay to use?
- Absolutely! Homemade chocolate chip dough works perfectly. Just ensure it's thick enough to hold up as a crust.
- → What’s the best way to save leftovers?
- Cover with foil at room temperature for a day or two. If keeping longer, pop it in the fridge for up to four days.
- → Can I prep this in advance?
- You can bake the pizza base ahead. Wait ten minutes after cooling to add toppings so the all-around warmth makes the chocolate spread easier.
- → What could I use if peanut butter’s not an option?
- Consider cookie butter, Nutella, or almond butter for a change, or to avoid peanuts altogether.
- → Why’s my cookie crust turning out uneven?
- Check that you’ve pressed the dough evenly across your pan. If the edges brown too fast, wrap them in foil while the center continues to cook.