If you love cookies, you’ll adore this Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie recipe! It’s melty, gooey, and perfect for sharing—or not! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a warm treat right from your oven. I’ll guide you through each step, offering tips to get the best texture and flavor. Ready to make your dessert dreams come true? Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This cookie skillet recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for a quick dessert.
- Shareable Delight: Cooking it in a skillet means you can easily serve it straight from the oven, perfect for gatherings.
- Warm and Gooey: The center stays soft and gooey, providing that ultimate cookie experience.
- Customizable: You can add your favorite mix-ins, like nuts or different types of chocolate, to make it your own!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
For the Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie, you will need:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
– Sea salt flakes for garnish
Important Ingredient Substitutions
If you run out of an ingredient, don’t worry! Here are some easy swaps:
– Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
– If you prefer, use brown sugar only or white sugar only.
– Greek yogurt can replace eggs for a vegan option.
– Whole wheat flour can substitute all-purpose flour for a healthier choice.
Optional Add-ins
Want to jazz up your cookie? Here are some fun ideas:
– Add 1/2 cup of oats for a chewy texture.
– Mix in dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist.
– Swap in dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
– Sprinkle in a few crushed pretzels for a salty crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Skillet
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This heat will make your cookie soft inside and crisp outside. Next, grab a large cast-iron skillet. You can also use a regular oven-safe pan if you don’t have one. Make sure it’s clean and ready to hold that delicious cookie dough.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a big bowl, pour in 1 cup of melted butter. Add 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Whisk these together until smooth. The mix should look creamy and well-combined. Now, crack in 2 large eggs, adding one at a time to the bowl. Whisk well after each egg. Finally, stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. The vanilla adds a nice sweet touch to your mix.
Combining Dry Ingredients and Baking
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This mix helps your cookie rise and stay soft. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir until just combined; you don’t want to overdo it. Now, fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of chopped nuts if you like.
Pour the cookie dough into your skillet and spread it evenly. Top it with a few extra chocolate chips and a pinch of sea salt flakes for a burst of flavor. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for golden edges and a soft center. Once done, let it cool for a bit before slicing into wedges. Enjoy this warm, gooey treat!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get a soft and chewy cookie, watch your baking time closely. Bake until the edges turn golden brown. The center should look slightly undercooked. This helps it stay gooey. If you want a crispier cookie, add a few more minutes to the bake time. Remember, the cookie will keep baking after you take it out of the oven.
Flavor Enhancements
To make the taste pop, try using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. You can also add a splash of espresso powder to the dough for a hint of richness. For a fun twist, mix in some peanut butter chips or butterscotch chips. They add a nice layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your skillet cookie warm. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a treat. You can drizzle chocolate syrup or caramel sauce for extra sweetness. Cut it into wedges for easy sharing. This cookie is perfect for parties, game nights, or cozy family dinners.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better incorporation into the mixture.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to keep your skillet cookie soft and chewy rather than tough.
- Experiment with Mix-Ins: Try adding different types of chocolate, dried fruits, or flavored nuts for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Let It Rest: Allow the cookie to cool slightly before slicing; this helps it set and makes for cleaner cuts.
Variations
Nut-Free Version
You can easily make a nut-free version of the chocolate chip skillet cookie. Just skip the nuts in the recipe. This keeps the cookie safe for those with nut allergies. The cookie will still taste great and be soft and chewy. You can also add extra chocolate chips for more flavor.
Additional Flavor Profiles
Want to switch things up? Try adding different flavors to your cookie. You can mix in a few teaspoons of espresso powder for a rich taste. Or, add a splash of almond extract for a twist. You can even fold in dried fruits like cranberries or cherries. Each option gives a new spin to the classic.
Gluten-Free Options
For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Many brands offer great substitutes that work well in baking. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture. This way, everyone can enjoy a slice of this delicious cookie without worry.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your cookie fresh, let it cool first. Once cool, cover the skillet with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also slice it into wedges and store them in an airtight container. This helps keep the cookie soft for up to three days.
Reheating Instructions
To enjoy your cookie warm, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookie in the oven for 5 to 10 minutes until it’s warm. If you want it extra gooey, you can also microwave a slice for about 15 to 20 seconds.
Freezing for Later Use
You can freeze the cookie too! First, let it cool completely. Wrap it in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It will stay good for about three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pan?
Yes, you can use a baking dish if you don’t have a skillet. A 9×13 inch pan works well. Just keep in mind that the cookie may bake differently. A skillet gives you crisp edges and a chewy center. If you use a glass pan, reduce the baking time. Always check to see if it is done.
How do I know when the skillet cookie is done?
Check the edges first. They should look golden brown. The center should be set but still soft. Insert a toothpick in the middle. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it is done. Remember, the cookie will continue to cook after you take it out.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough and chill it. Just cover it well and place it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit out for about 30 minutes before using. This helps it spread better in the skillet.
This blog post covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for baking a skillet cookie. You learned about useful substitutions, storage methods, and serving suggestions. My final thoughts? Baking should be fun and flexible! Feel free to experiment with flavors and textures. Enjoy exploring the variations mentioned and make the recipe your own. Happy baking, and indulge in your delicious homemade skillet cooki
