If you crave a warm, gooey dessert, you’ll love my Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie. This treat melds the nostalgia of classic cookies with the fun of skillet baking. Imagine biting into a soft, chocolate-filled piece right from the pan! In this post, I’ll guide you through easy steps, share tips, and offer delicious variations. Let’s make this irresistible dessert your new favorite!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: This skillet cookie is the perfect combination of chewy and gooey, with rich chocolate chips melting into every bite.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dessert in no time, making it great for last-minute cravings.
- Impressive Presentation: Baking in a skillet not only enhances the cookie’s texture but also makes for a stunning presentation right from the oven.
- Customizable: Add your favorite nuts or adjust the types of chocolate chips to make this recipe your own and cater to different tastes.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients with Measurements
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans, optional)
– Flaky sea salt for garnishing
Optional Ingredients for Variation
You can make this cookie even more delightful by adding:
– 1/2 cup of peanut butter chips for a nutty twist.
– 1/2 cup of dried fruit, like cranberries or cherries, for a fruity flavor.
– A sprinkle of cinnamon to warm up the taste.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need to swap some ingredients, here are good options:
– Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free choice.
– Replace all-purpose flour with oat flour for a gluten-free version.
– Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar if you want a richer taste.
These tips help you enjoy this dessert your way!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. A hot oven helps create a nice crust.
Mixing the Sugars and Butter
In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of melted butter with 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth. This mix is the heart of your cookie.
Incorporating Eggs and Vanilla
Add 2 large eggs, one at a time. Whisk each egg in well. Then stir in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. This adds rich flavor to your cookie.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mix. Stir gently. Do not overmix to keep the cookie soft.
Adding Chocolate Chips and Nuts
Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. If you like, add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans. Make sure they are evenly spread in the dough.
Preparing the Skillet and Garnishing
Pour the dough into a large cast-iron skillet. Spread it into an even layer. For a nice touch, sprinkle some extra chocolate chips and a pinch of flaky sea salt on top.
Baking the Cookie
Place the skillet in your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for golden edges and a soft center. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.
Cooling and Slicing
Once baked, take the skillet out of the oven. Let the cookie cool a bit. Slice it into wedges or squares. Serve warm for the best experience!
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Perfect Texture
– Use room temperature eggs. This helps the dough mix well.
– Don’t overmix the dough. Mix until just combined for a soft cookie.
– Watch the baking time. Take it out when the edges are golden but the center is soft.
Common Baking Mistakes to Avoid
– Forgetting to preheat the oven can lead to uneven baking.
– Using cold ingredients can affect how well the dough forms.
– Overbaking makes your cookie dry. Check it a few minutes early.
Serving Suggestions
– Serve warm straight from the skillet for a cozy treat.
– Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic touch.
– Drizzle with chocolate syrup and sprinkle flaky sea salt for extra flavor.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature to help them blend more easily into the batter, resulting in a smoother cookie dough.
- Don’t Overmix: After adding the dry ingredients to the wet, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tougher cookie rather than a soft and chewy one.
- Chill the Dough: For an even thicker cookie, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld and results in a better texture.
- Serve Warm: For the ultimate indulgence, serve your skillet cookie warm with a scoop of ice cream on top. The contrast between hot and cold is divine!
Variations
Nut-Free Options
If you want a nut-free chocolate chip skillet cookie, it’s easy! Simply leave out the nuts in the recipe. You can still enjoy a rich and chewy cookie. The chocolate chips will shine on their own. You can also add more chocolate chips for extra sweetness. This way, everyone can enjoy the dessert without worry.
Gluten-Free Alternative
To make a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum. This will help mimic the texture of regular flour. Follow the rest of the recipe just as you would. Your cookie will still be soft and delicious!
Flavor Additions and Enhancements
You can mix in different flavors to make your skillet cookie unique. Try adding:
– 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract
– 1/2 cup of peanut butter chips
– 1/2 cup of toffee bits
– 1/4 cup of shredded coconut
These additions add fun twists to the classic cookie. You can also top the warm cookie with ice cream or caramel sauce. This makes for an extra special treat. The possibilities are endless!
Storage Info
Recommended Storage Methods
To keep your chocolate chip skillet cookie fresh, store it in the skillet. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps keep moisture in and prevents it from drying out. If you have leftover cookie slices, place them in an airtight container. Keep the container at room temperature for up to three days.
How to Reheat Leftovers
To reheat your cookie, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skillet in the oven for about 10 minutes. This warms the cookie and makes it soft again. If you use a slice, you can pop it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. This option gives you that warm, gooey texture.
Freezing the Cookie
If you want to save some cookie for later, freezing works great. First, cool the cookie completely. Then, slice it into wedges. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer bag. You can freeze them for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat as mentioned above.
FAQs
Can I make this cookie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this cookie ahead of time. I suggest mixing the dough and storing it in the fridge. This keeps it fresh for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, just pour it into the skillet and bake as directed. You can also bake the cookie and store it in an airtight container. It lasts for about 3 days at room temperature.
What skillet is best for baking?
A cast-iron skillet is best for baking this cookie. It holds heat well and gives a nice crust. You can also use an oven-safe non-stick skillet. Just make sure it is 10-12 inches in diameter for even baking. Avoid using aluminum skillets, as they may not bake evenly.
How do I know when the cookie is done?
You know the cookie is done when the edges are golden brown. The center should feel set but still soft. It’s okay if it looks slightly underbaked in the middle. The cookie will continue to cook as it cools. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid burning.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate. Mix and match types for a fun twist. You can also add chocolate chunks or chocolate-covered nuts for extra flavor. Just remember to adjust the sweetness if using very sweet chocolate.
You now have all the tools to create a delicious skillet cookie. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfect results. Remember, you can mix and match ingredients to suit your taste. Don’t shy away from adding your favorite flavors. Store leftovers well to enjoy later. Baking should be fun and tasty! Now, gather your ingredients and start baking. You’ll love the cookie you creat
