Have you ever craved a dessert that combines the best of both worlds: a warm, gooey center and a crispy edge? Enter the delectable skillet cookie. This indulgent treat is not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing with friends and family during cozy gatherings or special occasions. Imagine breaking through the golden crust to reveal a luscious chocolate-filled interior – it’s pure bliss!
This skillet cookie recipe brings together simple ingredients and straightforward steps. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous celebrations alike. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or topped with ice cream, this dish promises an amazing flavor experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Cookie
Quick and Easy Preparation: Making this skillet cookie requires minimal effort. With just one bowl and a few simple steps, you can have a delicious dessert ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those who crave sweets without spending hours in the kitchen.
Customizable Flavors: One of the best features of this skillet cookie is its versatility. You can add your favorite mix-ins like nuts, caramel bits, or dried fruits to suit your taste preferences. Each batch can be uniquely yours!
Perfect for Sharing: This giant cookie is designed to be shared. Its large size makes it ideal for parties or family gatherings where everyone can dig in together. Serve it warm with ice cream for an unforgettable dessert experience.
Impressive Presentation: Serving a skillet cookie directly from the oven adds an element of excitement to any occasion. The sight of a bubbling, golden-brown cookie topped with melting chocolate will impress guests and create lasting memories.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Unsalted Butter: Use 1 cup (2 sticks) of softened unsalted butter for rich flavor and perfect texture.
Granulated Sugar: A total of 1 cup enhances sweetness and helps achieve that chewy consistency.
Brown Sugar: Incorporating 1 cup of packed brown sugar gives the cookie depth and moisture.
Vanilla Extract: Add 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract to elevate all flavors in the dish.
Eggs: You’ll need 2 large eggs to bind everything together and contribute to the soft texture.
All-Purpose Flour: Use 2 cups of all-purpose flour to create structure in your skillet cookie.
Baking Soda: Just 1 teaspoon helps the dough rise while baking.
Salt: Include 1/2 teaspoon of salt to balance sweetness and enhance overall flavor.
Chocolate Chips: Use 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips for that classic gooey center.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Skillet Cookie
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking throughout your skillet cookie as it cooks.
Cream Together Butter & Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
Add Eggs & Mix Well: Next, add the eggs one at a time into your mixture while continuing to mix until fully combined. Make sure there are no streaks remaining from the eggs.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly distributed. Gradually add these dry ingredients into your wet mixture until just combined; avoid overmixing as it can lead to tough cookies.
Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips gently with a spatula so they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough without breaking apart too much.
Bake & Serve Warm: Pour your dough into a well-greased cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving warm with a scoop of ice cream if desired!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
Select Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality butter and chocolate will significantly enhance the final flavor of your skillet cookie. Opt for pure vanilla extract instead of imitation for richer taste.
Don’t Overbake!: Keep an eye on your cookie as it bakes. It’s better to take it out slightly underbaked because it will continue cooking while cooling down in the pan.
Add Extra Toppings: Feel free to sprinkle additional chocolate chips or nuts on top before baking for added texture and visual appeal!
Store Properly: If you have leftovers (which is rare), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate them if you prefer them chilled.
These strategies will help you achieve an incredible skillet cookie every time!
Mistakes to avoid
Overmixing the Dough
One common mistake when making a skillet cookie is overmixing the dough. When you mix too much, you can develop gluten, leading to a tough texture instead of a chewy one. Mix just until the ingredients are combined and no dry flour remains visible. Aim for a dough that is slightly lumpy; this will keep your skillet cookie soft and delicious. Remember, less is more when it comes to mixing!
Using the Wrong Pan Size
Choosing the right pan size is crucial for baking a skillet cookie. If your pan is too small, the cookie may overflow or not cook evenly. Conversely, using a pan that’s too large can lead to an overly thin cookie that burns easily. A 10-inch cast-iron skillet is ideal for achieving that perfect balance of crispy edges and a gooey center. Always check your pan measurements before starting!
Baking at the Wrong Temperature
Baking your skillet cookie at the wrong temperature can ruin its texture and flavor. For best results, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature allows the cookie to rise properly while ensuring that it cooks through without burning. Always use an oven thermometer to verify your oven’s accuracy, as some ovens may not heat evenly.
Not Using Parchment Paper
Failing to line your skillet with parchment paper is another mistake many make when baking a skillet cookie. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. It also helps create an even bake by providing insulation between the dough and the hot metal surface of the skillet. Cut a round piece of parchment to fit inside your skillet for optimal results.
Serving Suggestions
This Skillet Cookie is versatile and pairs wonderfully with ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. Serve it warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream, allowing the creamy texture to contrast beautifully with the cookie’s chewy edges. Drizzling hot fudge or caramel sauce over the top can elevate this treat even further, creating a decadent indulgence that everyone will love.
You can also enjoy this Skillet Cookie as a fun breakfast option by adding a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh berries on top. The yogurt adds protein, while the berries provide a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cookie. This combination makes for an energizing start to your day.
For a savory twist, consider pairing your Skillet Cookie with a cup of coffee or espresso. The rich flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of the cookie perfectly, making it an ideal afternoon snack. Serving it alongside a glass of cold milk can also bring back nostalgic memories and enhance the overall experience.
Lastly, if you’re hosting a gathering, slice the Skillet Cookie into wedges and serve them on a platter. Guests can enjoy them as finger foods while mingling. Add some colorful fruit skewers or cheese cubes to create an appealing spread that caters to various tastes and preferences.
FAQs
What is a Skillet Cookie?
A Skillet Cookie is essentially a giant cookie baked in a skillet. It combines the delicious flavors of traditional cookies but offers a chewy center and crispy edges. This dessert is perfect for sharing and can be customized with toppings like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits.
Can I make Skillet Cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make Skillet Cookies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free to ensure the recipe meets dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
How do I store leftovers from my Skillet Cookie?
To store leftover Skillet Cookie, allow it to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days and can be refrigerated if you want it to last longer.
Can I reheat my Skillet Cookie?
Yes! To reheat your Skillet Cookie, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds for quick enjoyment without losing its delicious texture.
Conclusion
In summary, the Skillet Cookie offers an inviting dessert option perfect for any occasion. Its warm, gooey center paired with crispy edges creates an irresistible treat that delights both kids and adults alike. Whether served alone or topped with ice cream and sauces, its versatility shines through in various serving suggestions. Additionally, this dessert can easily accommodate dietary preferences such as gluten-free options. Storing leftovers is simple, ensuring you can enjoy this sweet indulgence over several days. Reheating methods keep it just as delicious as when freshly baked, making it a practical choice for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and serving styles to make your Skillet Cookie experience uniquely yours!
Skillet Cookie
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 12 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this delicious Skillet Cookie! Imagine a warm, gooey center surrounded by crispy edges, perfect for sharing with friends and family. This simple yet impressive treat blends classic flavors in just one pan, making it ideal for any occasion—from cozy gatherings to spontaneous celebrations. Whether enjoyed straight from the oven or topped with ice cream and drizzled with chocolate sauce, this giant cookie is sure to delight everyone. With customizable mix-ins and easy preparation, you can create a unique dessert that satisfies every sweet tooth!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
- Pour the dough into a greased cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (95g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating nuts or caramel bits into the dough. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.