If you love the classic combo of cookies and cream, our Cookies N Cream Pizookie recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. This warm, gooey dessert combines the best of both worlds—a giant cookie baked in a skillet and topped with creamy ice cream for the ultimate indulgence. It’s perfect for sharing or savoring all to yourself.
Ingredients
To make our irresistible Cookies N Cream Pizookie, we’ll need a blend of classic cookie dough components paired with rich cookies and cream toppings. Each ingredient adds a layer of flavor and texture that makes this dessert unforgettable.
Cookie Dough Ingredients
We start with a homemade cookie dough base designed for a soft, warm pizookie. Precise measurements and quality ingredients ensure the perfect balance of chewiness and crisp edges.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup crushed Oreo cookies (reserve some for topping)
Cookies and Cream Toppings
Our toppings elevate the pizookie, bringing the creamy and crunchy contrast that defines the Cookies N Cream experience.
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream (or cookies and cream flavored for extra indulgence)
- Additional crushed Oreo cookies for garnish
- Chocolate sauce (optional drizzle)
Optional Add-Ons
We can customize our pizookie with these extras to enhance texture and flavor or add a personal twist.
| Add-On | Purpose | Suggested Amount |
|---|---|---|
| White chocolate chips | Adds sweetness and richness | 1/4 cup |
| Mini marshmallows | Provides gooey softness | 1/4 cup |
| Sea salt flakes | Balances sweetness with saltiness | A pinch |
Equipment Needed
To create our Cookies N Cream Pizookie perfectly every time, having the right equipment is essential. Here is a detailed list of tools that will ensure smooth preparation and baking.
Baking Pan or Skillet
A crucial piece for this recipe is a cast iron skillet or an oven-safe baking pan. We recommend a 10-inch skillet for even baking and that classic crispy edge with a soft center. The heavy cast iron retains heat beautifully delivering that signature warm pizookie texture.
| Equipment Type | Recommended Size | Material | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cast Iron Skillet | 10 inches | Cast Iron | Even baking, crispy edges, heat retention |
| Oven-safe Baking Pan | 8 to 10 inches | Metal or ceramic | Alternative to skillet for baking |
Mixing Bowls
To prepare our cookie dough and combine ingredients smoothly, we’ll need at least two mixing bowls:
- One large bowl for creaming butter and sugars as the base of our dough.
- A medium bowl for whisking the dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, and salt.
Using separate bowls helps keep wet and dry ingredients well controlled and mixed evenly. Choose bowls with enough capacity to avoid spills when stirring vigorously.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precision matters for a well-balanced Cookies N Cream Pizookie flavor and texture. We suggest these measuring tools:
- Dry measuring cups for flour and crushed Oreo cookies.
- Liquid measuring cup for vanilla extract and any other liquids.
- Measuring spoons to get the exact amounts of baking soda, salt, and vanilla.
Using standardized measuring equipment guarantees we follow the recipe’s careful balance.
| Measuring Tool | Use for | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Measuring Cups | Flour, sugar, crushed Oreos | Correct flour-to-ingredient ratio |
| Liquid Measuring Cup | Vanilla extract, egg | Accurate liquid quantities |
| Measuring Spoons | Baking soda, salt, vanilla | Precise flavor and rise agents |
Oven
Our oven is the final essential tool, transforming raw dough into a warm, golden pizookie delight. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure your oven rack is positioned in the center for even heat distribution. Using an oven thermometer can help verify accurate baking temperature.
Tip: Avoid opening the oven door frequently during baking to maintain consistent temperature and prevent collapse of the pizookie center.
Having these tools ready streamlines our baking process and helps us craft a flawlessly delicious Cookies N Cream Pizookie every time.
Prep Work
Before we start baking our Cookies N Cream Pizookie, let’s focus on the essential Prep Work that sets the foundation for a perfectly soft and flavorful dessert. Proper preparation ensures our dough is ready and the oven is at the ideal temperature for even baking.
Preparing the Cookie Dough
To create the signature texture of our Cookies N Cream Pizookie, we need to follow precise steps in preparing the cookie dough:
- Soften the Unsalted Butter: Let 1/2 cup (1 stick) of butter sit at room temperature until smooth and creamy. This helps with better mixing and creaminess.
- Cream the Sugars and Butter: In a large bowl, combine:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
Beat these with the softened butter using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Crack in 1 large egg. Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat until fully incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
This ensures even distribution of leavening and salt.
- Fold Dry Ingredients into Wet: Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet bowl. Gently fold until just combined—overmixing can toughen the dough.
- Add Crushed Oreos: Finally, gently fold in 1 cup of crushed Oreo cookies for that iconic cookies n cream flavor and texture.
“Tip: Use a rubber spatula for folding to preserve the dough’s loft and softness.”
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 1/2 cup (1 stick) | Soften to room temp |
| Granulated Sugar | 1/4 cup | |
| Brown Sugar | 1/2 cup (packed) | |
| Egg | 1 large | |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon | |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1 cup | Sifted |
| Baking Soda | 1/2 teaspoon | Sifted |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Sifted |
| Crushed Oreo Cookies | 1 cup | Gently folded in |
Preheating the Oven
Our oven needs to be perfectly preheated to ensure the Cookies N Cream Pizookie bakes evenly with a golden, crispy edge and a warm, gooey center.
- Set the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
- Allow the oven to fully preheat before placing the skillet inside. This avoids uneven baking.
- Position an oven rack in the center to balance heat distribution.
“Reminder: Use an oven thermometer if available to confirm precise temperature.”
By handling these prep steps with care, we set ourselves up for a Cookies N Cream Pizookie that is soft, warm, and bursting with irresistible cookie flavor.
Baking the Pizookie
Now that our Cookies N Cream Pizookie dough is perfectly prepared, it is time to bake it to warm, gooey perfection. This step is crucial to achieve the iconic soft center with a slightly crisp edge that defines a great pizookie.
Shaping the Dough
We want to shape the dough directly in our preheated cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan to capture that signature pizookie look and texture. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Lightly grease the skillet with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Transfer all the cookie dough into the center of the skillet.
- Using your hands or the back of a spoon, gently press the dough outward evenly to fill the skillet, shaping it into a thick disc about 1 to 1.5 inches thick.
- Avoid pressing too hard to keep the dough airy for a tender crumb.
- Smooth the surface slightly but keep it rustic-looking to achieve delightful crispy edges.
Baking Time and Temperature
To bake our Cookies N Cream Pizookie properly, maintaining the right temperature and timing is key. Here is the ideal baking setup:
| Oven Temperature | Baking Time | Texture Achieved |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 18-22 mins | Golden edges, soft, gooey center |
Tips:
- Place the skillet on the center oven rack for even heat exposure.
- Start checking for doneness at around 18 minutes. The pizookie should have golden-brown edges while the center remains slightly soft to the touch.
- Avoid overbaking as the pizookie will continue to cook slightly after removal due to residual heat.
- If you want a slightly firmer texture, bake for the full 22 minutes.
“A perfectly baked pizookie strikes a balance between melty warm cookie dough and crispy edges, enticing every bite.”
Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven carefully using oven mitts. Let the pizookie rest for 3-5 minutes before topping with vanilla or cookies and cream ice cream and your choice of crunchy Oreo bits or optional chocolate drizzle.
Assembling the Cookies N Cream Pizookie
Now that our Cookies N Cream Pizookie is perfectly baked with golden edges and a soft center, it’s time to assemble this irresistible dessert. We’ll layer on creamy ice cream and crunchy Oreo toppings that elevate every bite.
Adding Cookies and Cream Toppings
To enhance the signature Cookies N Cream flavor, start by scooping generous portions of ice cream right onto the warm pizookie. We recommend vanilla or cookies and cream ice cream for the best contrast of hot and cold textures.
Next, sprinkle crushed Oreo cookie pieces evenly over the ice cream to boost the delightful crunch and deepen the Oreo flavor. For an optional finishing touch, drizzle warm chocolate sauce or melt some white chocolate chips and drizzle over the top.
| Toppings | Description | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Ice cream | Vanilla or Cookies & Cream | 2-3 scoops |
| Crushed Oreo pieces | Finely crushed for crunch | 2 tbsp |
| Chocolate sauce (optional) | Warm drizzle for richness | 1 tbsp |
| White chocolate drizzle (optional) | Melted, for added sweetness | 1 tbsp |
This combination complements our warm cookie base with creamy coldness and crunchy texture, creating a multisensory dessert delight.
Serving Suggestions
We like to serve our Cookies N Cream Pizookie straight from the skillet for cozy sharing or personal indulgence. Here are some expert serving ideas:
- Place the skillet on a heat-safe trivet and add a scoop of extra ice cream on the side for additional cool creaminess.
- Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar or a pinch of sea salt flakes to highlight flavors.
- For a party, serve with small spoons and let everyone top their own pizookie with favorite add-ons like mini marshmallows or white chocolate chips.
- Pair with a cold glass of milk or a cup of rich coffee to balance the sweet richness.
By finishing with thoughtful toppings and serving options, our Cookies N Cream Pizookie becomes a memorable dessert anyone will want to savor again.
Tips and Variations
Mastering the Cookies N Cream Pizookie means understanding how to perfect its texture and customize flavors. Here are our top tips and creative variations to elevate your dessert experience.
How to Get the Perfect Gooey Center
The hallmark of a great Cookies N Cream Pizookie is its irresistibly gooey center. Follow these precise steps for success:
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18 to 22 minutes. Baking times may vary depending on your oven and skillet size.
- Insert a toothpick into the edge center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Avoid overbaking. The outer edges should be golden brown while the center remains soft and slightly undercooked.
- Let the pizookie rest for 5 minutes before adding ice cream. This helps the center set without losing its gooey texture.
| Temperature | Time | Desired Texture |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F | 18-22 minutes | Golden edges, gooey center |
“The key is gentle heat and careful timing to lock in the soft, warm center that melts in your mouth.”
Alternative Cookie Options
Customize your Cookies N Cream Pizookie with these cookie substitutions to suit your taste preferences:
- Double Stuf Oreos – For extra creaminess and crunch.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies – Classic twist with melty chocolate chips.
- Peanut Butter Cookies – Adds a nutty, rich flavor contrast.
- Graham Crackers – For a more subtle, buttery texture.
- Gluten-Free Cookies – Use your favorite gluten-free cookie brand to make it allergy-friendly.
Tip: For best results, crush cookies coarsely to maintain texture without turning into a powder.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
Elevate your serving presentation and flavor balance with these pairing recommendations:
-
Toppings
- Scoop of cookies and cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Crushed Oreos or white chocolate chips sprinkled on top.
- Warm drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for decadence.
- A light dusting of powdered sugar or sea salt flakes for contrast.
-
Beverage Pairings
- Glass of cold milk to balance sweetness.
- Strong black coffee or espresso for an adult twist.
- Hot chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
- Serve directly from the skillet for rustic charm and heat retention.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a pop of color.
“Serving warm pizookie with cold creamy ice cream creates a delightful temperature contrast that enhances every bite.”
These tips and variations ensure your Cookies N Cream Pizookie consistently delivers gooey richness and customizable delight for every occasion.
Conclusion
This Cookies N Cream Pizookie recipe is a surefire way to impress anyone craving a warm, gooey dessert with a nostalgic twist. It’s simple to make yet delivers that perfect balance of soft cookie and creamy ice cream that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Whether you’re sharing it with friends or indulging solo, this dessert brings comfort and delight in every bite. Give it a try and enjoy a cozy treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cookies N Cream Pizookie?
A Cookies N Cream Pizookie is a warm, skillet-baked giant cookie topped with creamy ice cream, usually featuring crushed Oreo cookies. It’s a perfect shareable dessert or indulgent treat for one.
What ingredients do I need to make a Cookies N Cream Pizookie?
You’ll need unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, an egg, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, crushed Oreo cookies, vanilla or cookies and cream ice cream, and optional toppings like chocolate sauce or white chocolate chips.
What equipment is essential for baking a Pizookie?
A cast iron skillet or any oven-safe baking pan is essential for even baking. You’ll also need basic tools like mixing bowls and measuring cups.
How do I ensure the Pizookie has a soft and gooey center?
Bake the dough at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes. Watch closely and avoid overbaking to keep the center soft and gooey while the edges are golden.
Can I customize my Cookies N Cream Pizookie?
Yes! You can add white chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, sea salt flakes, or swap Oreo cookies with Double Stuf Oreos, chocolate chip cookies, or gluten-free alternatives.
How should I serve a Cookies N Cream Pizookie?
Serve warm directly from the skillet, topped with scoops of vanilla or cookies and cream ice cream, crushed Oreos, and optional chocolate drizzle. Pair it with cold milk or coffee for extra enjoyment.
Is it necessary to preheat the oven before baking?
Yes, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking and the perfect texture for your Pizookie.
Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for better flavor and texture before baking.
What makes the Cookies N Cream flavor so popular in this Pizookie?
The blend of crunchy Oreo cookies and creamy ice cream creates a flavorful contrast that appeals to fans of the classic cookies and cream combo, enhancing both texture and taste.
How long should the Pizookie rest before adding ice cream toppings?
Let the Pizookie rest for a few minutes after baking to slightly cool and set before topping it with ice cream and other toppings.