Are you ready to experience dessert in a whole new way? Forget everything you thought you knew about cookies, because this Cookies and Cream Pizookie is about to blow your mind! This giant, warm cookie is baked in a skillet, creating a crispy edge and a gooey, molten center – the perfect combination of textures and flavors. It’s ridiculously easy to make, incredibly delicious, and guaranteed to impress your friends and family. Get ready for the ultimate comfort food experience! This recipe is perfect for those looking for easy recipes, healthy meals (with variations!), quick dinner ideas (well, dessert, but you get the idea!), and delicious dishes that showcase homemade cooking. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs (Oreos recommended)
- ½ cup chocolate sandwich cookie filling (Oreo filling recommended)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet or oven-safe skillet. This is crucial for easy removal and a perfectly golden crust.
Make the Cookie Dough:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This is easiest with an electric mixer, but you can do it by hand with some elbow grease!
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Assemble and Bake:
- Gently fold in the chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs. Reserve about ¼ cup for topping.
- Press the cookie dough evenly into the prepared skillet.
- Dollop spoonfuls of the Oreo filling evenly over the cookie dough.
- Sprinkle the reserved cookie crumbs over the filling.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is still slightly soft.
Cool and Serve:
- Let the pizookie cool in the skillet for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows it to set slightly while retaining its gooey center.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for the ultimate indulgence.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Pizookie:
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to a tough cookie. Mix until just combined.
- Use a good quality butter: The flavor of the butter will come through in the final product.
- Adjust baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your pizookie and adjust the baking time as needed. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, not completely clean.
- Let it cool slightly: This prevents a messy, molten lava flow when you cut into it.
Variations:
- Peanut Butter Pizookie: Replace the Oreo crumbs and filling with peanut butter cookie crumbs and peanut butter.
- M&M's Pizookie: Fold in ½ cup of your favorite M&M's candies along with the cookie crumbs.
- Salted Caramel Pizookie: Add a swirl of salted caramel sauce to the dough before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 400-500 (this will depend heavily on the size of your slices and the ingredients used)
This recipe makes a truly impressive dessert. It’s a fun twist on classic cookies and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the deliciousness!