Dessert lovers rejoice! Imagine a dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth while sneaking in wholesome ingredients—welcome to the Deep Dish Cookie Pie. This creative spin on traditional cookies combines the familiar comfort of a chewy, chocolate-studded treat with the nutritional benefits of beans and oats. It’s perfect for anyone who wants indulgence without overloading on refined ingredients.
I first discovered this recipe while experimenting with healthier dessert alternatives, and it instantly became a household favorite. Its thick, soft texture, rich chocolate pockets, and slightly nutty undertone make it feel like a decadent treat, yet the base ingredients are surprisingly wholesome. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a casual brunch, or as an after-dinner indulgence, this cookie pie impresses every time.
The beauty of this dessert is its versatility. You can swap ingredients to suit dietary needs—use almond flour for gluten-free, yogurt for extra creaminess, or nut butter instead of oil for a richer flavor. With minimal prep and only a few simple ingredients, this Deep Dish Cookie Pie transforms dessert time into something both satisfying and guilt-free.
Recipe Overview
Deep Dish Cookie Pie is a rich, chocolate-studded dessert made with a smooth blend of white beans, oats, applesauce, and chocolate chips. Baked in a springform pan, it emerges thick, soft, and chewy—a healthier twist on classic cookie dough that’s ready in about 35 minutes. It’s a crowd-pleaser, ideal for family desserts, potlucks, or anytime you want a sweet treat without the extra guilt.
Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s everything you need to make this show-stopping dessert, plus tips for perfect texture and flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cans white beans or garbanzo beans (500g total, drained)
- 1 cup quick oats (or almond flour for a gluten-free version)
- ¼ cup applesauce (or yogurt for creaminess)
- 3 tablespoons oil (or ¼ cup nut butter for richness)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups brown sugar (or unrefined sugar)
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Beans
Drain and rinse the beans thoroughly. Beans are the secret ingredient here—they add moisture and protein while keeping the dessert soft and chewy.
2. Blend the Batter
In a food processor, combine the beans, oats, applesauce, oil, vanilla extract, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Blend until smooth, scraping the sides as necessary to create a creamy, uniform batter.
Tip: Make sure the beans are well-drained and rinsed to avoid a beany flavor.
3. Add Chocolate Chips
Remove the batter from the processor and fold in the chocolate chips by hand. This prevents them from breaking up and ensures every bite has melty chocolate pockets.
4. Pour into Pan
Grease a 9- or 10-inch springform pan. Pour the batter in and spread it evenly. The springform pan helps the cookie pie keep its tall, deep-dish shape.
5. Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookie pie for about 35 minutes, or until it’s set and lightly golden on top. The center should feel firm but still soft to the touch.
6. Cool and Serve
Let the pie cool for at least 10 minutes before removing it from the pan. This allows it to set and makes slicing easier. Serve as-is or with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Gluten-Free Option
Use almond flour instead of oats, or a certified gluten-free oat, to make this pie suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
2. Add Nuts or Dried Fruit
Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor complexity.
3. Sweetener Alternatives
Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar, maple syrup, or date syrup for a natural sweetener twist.
4. Make It Vegan
Use plant-based yogurt or applesauce, oil, and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
5. Serving Suggestions
- Serve slightly warm with vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days; warm slices slightly before serving.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert pairs beautifully with:
- Fresh berries for a fruity contrast
- Whipped cream or ice cream for extra indulgence
- Coffee or milk for the perfect snack or dessert experience
The Deep Dish Cookie Pie is proof that dessert can be both indulgent and wholesome. Thick, chewy, and packed with chocolate chips, it satisfies cravings while sneaking in healthy ingredients like beans and oats. It’s easy to prepare, adaptable to dietary preferences, and perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Whether for a special occasion, a weeknight treat, or a potluck centerpiece, this cookie pie delivers on both flavor and presentation. It’s the kind of dessert that turns simple ingredients into a memorable, sweet delight.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cookie pie ahead of time?
Yes, it can be baked in advance and stored in the fridge. Rewarm slightly before serving.
2. Can I use canned chickpeas instead of white beans?
Absolutely! Both work well and provide the same soft, moist texture.
3. Can I make it nut-free?
Yes, simply use oil instead of nut butter and omit nuts in any variations.
4. How do I prevent it from being too soft?
Ensure the beans are well-drained and bake until the center is just set. Cooling helps it firm up.
5. Can I add other mix-ins?
Yes! Chopped nuts, dried fruit, or coconut flakes work wonderfully.
Indulge in a healthier dessert with this Deep Dish Cookie Pie. Made with beans, oats, and chocolate chips, it’s thick, chewy, and ready in 35 minutes!