Craving that warm, gooey dessert you love from BJ’s? I totally get it. That’s why I created my own BJ’s Pizookie copycat recipe right in my kitchen. Imagine a single, indulgent cookie that’s crispy on the edges and soft and chewy in the center, topped with a scoop of your favorite ice cream.
Whether you’re hosting a get-together or just treating yourself, this Pizookie is sure to impress. Best part? You don’t have to leave home to enjoy this delightful dessert. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this irresistible treat in no time. Let’s dive into how you can make this mouthwatering Pizookie yourself.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving
Instructions
Creating your own BJ’s Pizookie at home is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to achieve that perfect balance of crispy edges and a soft, gooey center.
Prepare the Cookie Dough
- Preheat Your Oven
I start by preheating my oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when the dough is prepared.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, I beat ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter with ½ cup (100g) brown sugar and ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add Egg and Vanilla
I add one large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, I whisk together 1 ¼ cups (156g) all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually, I fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Incorporate Chocolate Chips
Finally, I fold in 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Bake the Pizookie
- Prepare the Baking Dish
I grease a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking dish with non-stick spray or a little butter to prevent the cookie from sticking.
- Spread the Dough
I transfer the cookie dough into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a uniform thickness.
- Bake Until Golden
I place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is just set but still gooey.
- Cool Slightly
Once baked, I remove the Pizookie from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes to allow it to set while maintaining that delightful gooey center.
- Serve with Ice Cream
I scoop generous portions of vanilla ice cream on top of the warm Pizookie. The contrast of the hot cookie with cold ice cream creates a heavenly dessert experience.
Tools and Equipment
Creating the perfect BJ’s Pizookie at home is not only about the right ingredients but also having the proper tools and equipment. Here’s what you’ll need to ensure your Pizookie turns out just as delicious as the original:
- Oven
A reliable oven is essential for baking your Pizookie to that golden, crispy edge while keeping the center warm and gooey.
- Mixing Bowls
I always keep a set of mixing bowls on hand. You’ll need them for creaming the butter and sugars, as well as mixing your dry ingredients.
- Electric Mixer or Whisk
An electric mixer makes the creaming process effortless, ensuring a smooth and fluffy dough. If you prefer, a sturdy whisk can also do the job.
- Spatula
A silicone spatula is perfect for scraping down the sides of your mixing bowls, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are key to replicating BJ’s Pizookie. Make sure you have a set of measuring cups and spoons for both dry and wet ingredients.
- Baking Dish
A 9×9-inch baking dish works best for this recipe. Grease it well to prevent sticking and to help achieve that signature crispy edge.
- Cooling Rack
Allowing your Pizookie to cool slightly on a cooling rack ensures it sets just right, making it easier to serve without losing that perfect gooey texture.
- Ice Cream Scoop
A good ice cream scoop helps you add generous, uniform scoops of vanilla ice cream on top, enhancing the overall presentation and taste.
- Parchment Paper or Non-Stick Spray
Lining your baking dish with parchment paper or using non-stick spray ensures easy removal of the Pizookie and makes cleanup a breeze.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing your BJ’s Pizookie ahead of time allows you to enjoy this decadent dessert whenever the craving strikes. Here’s how I make-ahead this delightful treat:
- Prepare the Cookie Dough
- Follow the recipe steps to mix the cookie dough up to the point before baking.
- Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Portion the Dough
- Divide the dough into individual portions suitable for your baking dishes.
- Shape each portion into a disk, ensuring they fit your 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Freeze the Dough Portions
- Wrap each dough disk tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped dough portions in a freezer-safe zip-top bag.
- Label the bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Store in the Freezer
- Keep the dough portions in the freezer for up to three months.
- When ready to bake, remove the desired number of portions and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Bake When Ready
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease your baking dish and place the thawed dough portions inside.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown around the edges.
- Serve with Ice Cream
- Allow the Pizookie to cool slightly before serving.
- Top with generous scoops of vanilla ice cream for that perfect hot and cold contrast.
Storage Tips
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated Dough | Up to 2 days |
| Frozen Dough Portions | Up to 3 months |
| Baked Pizookie Reheating | Reheat in oven |
By following these make-ahead steps, you can have a warm, gooey Pizookie ready to impress anytime you need a sweet treat without the last-minute preparation.
Serving Suggestions
Creating the perfect BJ’s Pizookie at home is just the beginning. Here are some of my favorite ways to elevate your Pizookie experience:
Classic Vanilla Ice Cream
A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream complements the warm, gooey cookie beautifully. The coldness of the ice cream contrasts with the warm cookie, creating a delightful balance.
Chocolate Ganache Drizzle
Enhance the decadence by drizzling homemade chocolate ganache over your Pizookie. Simply heat equal parts heavy cream and dark chocolate until smooth, then pour it over the top for an extra layer of indulgence.
Fresh Berries
Add a burst of freshness with a handful of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The tartness of the berries cuts through the sweetness, adding a vibrant flavor to each bite.
Whipped Cream and Caramel Sauce
Top your Pizookie with a generous swirl of freshly whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. The creamy textures and sweet caramel notes elevate the dessert to a new level of deliciousness.
Crushed Nuts
For a delightful crunch, sprinkle crushed pecans, walnuts, or almonds over your Pizookie. The nuts add texture and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate chips.
Seasonal Variations
Embrace the seasons by adding ingredients like pumpkin spice for fall, peppermint chips for the holidays, or lemon zest in the spring. These variations keep your Pizookie exciting all year round.
Mini Pizookies
For individual servings, bake the dough in muffin tins to create mini Pizookies. Serve each with a small scoop of ice cream and a drizzle of your favorite sauce for a charming presentation.
Warm and Fresh
Always serve your Pizookie warm straight from the oven. The fresh, molten center is at its peak when warm, ensuring every bite is as inviting and delicious as the first.
Pair with a Beverage
Complement your Pizookie with a glass of cold milk, a rich espresso, or a creamy milkshake. The right beverage enhances the flavors and makes the dessert experience even more enjoyable.
Decorative Garnishes
Finish your Pizookie with elegant garnishes like chocolate shavings, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a sprig of mint. These little touches make your dessert look as fantastic as it tastes.
Experiment with these serving suggestions to find your favorite combinations. Each addition brings its unique flair, making your homemade Pizookie a standout treat for any occasion.
Conclusion
Making BJ’s Pizookie at home has been such a rewarding experience. There’s something magical about creating a warm gooey dessert with just a few simple ingredients. Watching it come together in the oven and then enjoying it with a scoop of ice cream is pure bliss.
I love how versatile this recipe is. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, it’s always a hit. Plus having the option to make it ahead means you’re never far from a delicious treat. The endless topping possibilities keep things exciting every time you make it.
Give it a try and discover your own favorite way to enjoy this decadent dessert. Trust me once you’ve tasted your homemade Pizookie it won’t be hard to make it a regular indulgence in your kitchen.
