Chocolate Chip Dessert Pizzas

Chocolate Chip Dessert Pizzas are a delightful twist on traditional pizza, transforming the savory classic into a sweet, indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a fun family night, a birthday celebration, or simply a moment when you crave something sweet, this dessert pizza is sure to impress everyone at the table. Imagine a warm, freshly baked cookie crust topped with melted chocolate chips and your favorite sauces and toppings—it’s a dessert lover’s dream come true!

Why It’s My Go-To

This recipe has become my go-to because it combines the fun of pizza with the irresistible flavors of chocolate chip cookies. The versatility of the dessert allows you to customize it based on your mood or the ingredients you have on hand. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum taste. Every time I serve Chocolate Chip Dessert Pizzas, I’m met with smiles and requests for seconds, making it a guaranteed hit!

Ingredient List

• 1-3/4 to 2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 envelope of Fleischmann’s RapidRise Yeast
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 2/3 cup very warm water (120 to 130°F)
• 3/4 teaspoon Spice Islands Pure Vanilla Extract
• 3 tablespoons melted butter or margarine
• 1/2 cup miniature chocolate chips
• Assortment of “sauces”: peanut butter, hazelnut spread, hot fudge, caramel sauce, frosting, or puddings
• Assortment of toppings: fresh fruit, dried fruit, nuts, chocolate chips, candies, cookies, sprinkles, and more

Hardware & Gadgets

• Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements of ingredients.
• Baking Sheet: To bake your dessert pizzas to a golden perfection.
• Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
• Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough to the desired thickness.

The Method for Chocolate Chip Dessert Pizzas

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1-3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 envelope of Fleischmann’s RapidRise Yeast, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 3/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix these dry ingredients together until well combined.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together 2/3 cup of very warm water (120 to 130°F), 3/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 3 tablespoons of melted butter or margarine. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a dough begins to form.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour until you reach the right consistency.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 6: Shape the Pizzas

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion out into a round pizza shape, about 1/4 inch thick. Place the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Add Chocolate Chips

Sprinkle 1/2 cup of miniature chocolate chips evenly over the surface of each pizza, pressing them gently into the dough.

Step 8: Bake

Bake the dessert pizzas in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and the chocolate chips are melted.

Step 9: Add Toppings

Once out of the oven, let the pizzas cool slightly. Then, drizzle your choice of sauces—like peanut butter, hot fudge, or caramel sauce—over the top. Finish with your favorite toppings, from fresh fruits to colorful sprinkles.

Holiday-Friendly Variations

• Halloween: Top with orange frosting and candy corn for a festive treat.
• Christmas: Use peppermint extract in the dough and top with crushed candy canes.
• Valentine’s Day: Drizzle with pink frosting and add heart-shaped sprinkles.
• Summer: Top with fresh berries and a light drizzle of honey.

Missteps & Fixes

• Dough Not Rising: Ensure your yeast is fresh and the water is at the right temperature (120 to 130°F) for activation.
• Too Sticky Dough: Add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is manageable.
• Burnt Edges: Check your oven temperature; an oven thermometer can help ensure accuracy.
• Chocolate Chips Not Melting: If they are too cold, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before baking.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before rolling it out. For baked Chocolate Chip Dessert Pizzas, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to a month. Just reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!

Questions People Ask

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! Whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and a bit of extra nutrition. Just remember that it might produce a denser crust, so you might want to mix it with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.

What other toppings work well on these dessert pizzas?

The possibilities are endless! Consider adding crushed cookies, marshmallows, or even ice cream on top for an extra special treat. Get creative with your favorite sweets!

Can I make mini dessert pizzas instead of one large one?

Yes! Simply divide the dough into smaller portions and shape them into mini pizzas. They’re perfect for parties or kid-friendly servings.

How can I make the crust gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture and stability.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Chip Dessert Pizzas are not only a delightful dessert but also a canvas for your creativity. Whether you keep it simple with just chocolate chips or go all out with sauces and toppings, each bite is sure to bring joy. This recipe is perfect for sharing with friends and family, making it a beloved treat that everyone will ask for again and again. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in the sweet, gooey goodness of Chocolate Chip Dessert Pizzas!