Indulge your sweet tooth with the Caramel Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie! This warm, gooey treat is perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself. I’ll guide you through making this delightful dessert, highlighting all the key ingredients and tools you’ll need. Plus, I’ll share tips to ensure it comes out just right every time. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a dessert they won’t forget!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: This skillet cookie is the perfect blend of rich chocolate and sweet caramel, creating a delightful taste experience in every bite.
- Easy to Make: The straightforward steps make it simple for bakers of all skill levels to whip up this delicious dessert without any fuss.
- Shareable Delight: It’s baked in a skillet, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings, as everyone can dig in and enjoy it together.
- Customizable: You can easily modify the recipe by adding your favorite nuts or swapping in different types of chocolate for a unique twist.
Ingredients
Key Ingredients for Skillet Cookie
To make the best caramel chocolate chip skillet cookie, you need a few key items:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 cup semisweet or dark chocolate chips
– 1 cup caramel bits or small pieces of chewy caramel
– Extra sea salt for topping
These ingredients work together to create a rich, sweet, and gooey cookie that you will love.
Options for Chocolate Chips & Caramel
You can use various chocolate chips for your skillet cookie. Semisweet is a classic choice. Dark chocolate adds a rich flavor. You could also try milk chocolate for a sweeter touch. For the caramel, caramel bits are super easy to use. If you have chewy caramel, cut it into small pieces. Both options melt beautifully, adding a delightful burst of flavor.
Suggested Tools and Equipment
You will need a few tools to make this cookie. Here’s what I recommend:
– A large mixing bowl
– An electric mixer for easy creaming
– A whisk for mixing dry ingredients
– A spatula for folding in chocolate and caramel
– A 10-12 inch cast iron skillet for baking
Having these tools makes the process smooth and fun. Enjoy the baking journey!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Skillet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. Next, grab a large cast iron skillet, about 10-12 inches, and grease it well. You can use cooking spray or a bit of butter. This keeps the cookie from sticking to the skillet.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, add 1 cup of softened unsalted butter. Then, mix in 1 cup of packed light brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat this mixture on medium speed. You want it light and fluffy, which takes about 2-3 minutes. Next, add 2 large eggs, one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Finally, pour in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and mix until everything is combined.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of sifted all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt. This helps distribute the baking soda and salt evenly. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here.
Folding in Chocolate and Caramel
Now, it’s time to add some fun! Fold in 1 cup of semisweet or dark chocolate chips and 1 cup of caramel bits. Make sure they are evenly spread throughout the dough. This is where your cookie gets its delicious flavor.
Baking the Skillet Cookie
Pour the cookie dough into the greased skillet. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You want the edges to be golden brown, while the center should still be a little gooey. When it’s done, take it out and sprinkle a light pinch of sea salt on top. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy it warm!
Tips & Tricks
Avoiding Common Baking Mistakes
To bake the best caramel chocolate chip skillet cookie, avoid overmixing the dough. Overmixing can make it tough instead of soft. Make sure your butter is soft. Too cold butter won’t mix well. Use room temperature eggs for better blending. Always measure flour correctly. Spoon it lightly into a cup, then level it off. This keeps your cookie from being too dry.
How to Achieve the Perfect Gooey Center
The secret to a gooey center is baking time. Bake for 25-30 minutes, but check early. The edges should be golden brown, while the middle looks soft. Don’t worry if it seems undercooked; it will set as it cools. Adding extra caramel bits will help keep that gooey texture too. Try to use fresh caramel for a richer taste.
Serving Suggestions for Maximum Indulgence
Serve your skillet cookie warm, right from the oven. This keeps it soft and gooey. Top each slice with vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of warm caramel sauce makes it even better. You can add extra sea salt on top for a nice contrast. Enjoy it with friends for a fun dessert night!
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation, resulting in a smoother dough.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to keep the cookie soft and chewy, avoiding a tough texture.
- Check for Doneness: Bake until the edges are golden and the center is slightly underbaked for the perfect gooey texture.
- Enhance with Sea Salt: A sprinkle of sea salt on top right after baking balances the sweetness and elevates the flavor.
Variations
Nutty Additions: Pecans or Walnuts
You can make your skillet cookie even better by adding nuts. Pecans or walnuts add a great crunch. Just chop them up and fold them into the dough. Use about 1 cup of nuts. This will give your cookie a nice texture and flavor. Nuts also boost the nutrition, making it a bit healthier.
Alternative Flavor Combinations
Feel free to mix it up with different flavors. You can use white chocolate chips or milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate. Try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or espresso powder for a warm taste. You could also swap caramel bits for toffee bits for a different sweet twist. The options are endless!
Gluten-Free Skillet Cookie Options
You can still enjoy this cookie if you need it to be gluten-free. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour. Make sure the other ingredients are gluten-free too. Check the labels on your chocolate chips and caramel bits. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty treat!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Skillet Cookie
To store leftover skillet cookie, let it cool first. Once cool, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. This keeps the cookie fresh and soft. You can also place it in an airtight container for best results. Stored this way, it lasts for about three days at room temperature.
Best Practices for Reheating
When you want to enjoy your skillet cookie again, reheating is easy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookie in the oven for about 8-10 minutes. This warms it up and makes it gooey again. You can also microwave a slice for about 15-20 seconds. Just watch it closely to avoid drying out.
Freezing Tips for Future Enjoyment
Freezing your skillet cookie is a great way to save some for later. First, let the cookie cool completely. Then, cut it into slices. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This method helps avoid freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw and reheat!
FAQs
Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can use other flours like whole wheat or almond flour. Just remember, they may change the texture. Whole wheat flour gives a nutty taste, while almond flour makes it softer. You might need to adjust the amounts a bit. Start with less, then add more if needed.
How long can I keep the skillet cookie?
You can store the skillet cookie for up to four days at room temperature. Keep it in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. For the best taste, eat it fresh. Warm it up a bit for that gooey center!
What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
No worries! You can use any oven-safe skillet, like a regular metal or glass one. If you don’t have a skillet, use a baking pan instead. Just adjust the baking time, as it may take less time in a thinner pan. Aim for that golden edge and gooey center!
You learned how to make a delicious skillet cookie. We covered key ingredients and the right tools. You know how to mix, bake, and avoid mistakes for the perfect result. Variations, like nutty or gluten-free options, add fun to the recipe. Finally, you can store, reheat, or freeze leftovers. Enjoy this sweet treat and share with others. Happy bakin
