Who doesn’t love a gooey chocolate chip cookie? In this post, I’ll show you how to make a Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet—your new favorite dessert. It's easy, quick, and offers a warm, sweet treat that’s perfect for sharing. I’ll cover the best ingredients, step-by-step baking tips, and fun variations to try. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious dessert!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This skillet cookie comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Gooey Center: Baking it in a skillet ensures that the edges get crispy while the center remains deliciously gooey.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, like nuts or other types of chocolate, to make it your own.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe serves eight, making it a great dessert for gatherings or family dinners!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet
To make the best chocolate chip cookie skillet, you will need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- Ice cream for serving (optional)
Tips for Choosing Quality Ingredients
Using great ingredients makes a difference. Here are some tips:
- Butter: Always choose unsalted butter for better control over salt.
- Sugar: Use fresh brown sugar. It should feel moist and packed.
- Eggs: Select large, fresh eggs for the best taste and texture.
- Flour: All-purpose flour works best. Make sure it’s fresh for good rise.
- Chocolate Chips: Go for semi-sweet chips. They give the right sweetness.
- Walnuts: If using, pick fresh walnuts. They add nice crunch and flavor.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
You can add extra flavor with these options:
- Sea Salt: A sprinkle on top before baking boosts flavor.
- Cinnamon: A pinch in the dough adds warmth.
- Peanut Butter: Swirl in some for a nutty twist.
- White Chocolate Chips: Mix these in for a sweet contrast.
- Dried Fruit: Try raisins or cranberries for a fruity touch.
These ingredients and tips will set you up for a delicious chocolate chip cookie skillet. Enjoy every bite!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping Your Skillet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a large cast-iron skillet and grease it. You can use a little butter or cooking spray. This step helps the cookie not stick.
Mixing Wet and Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Mix until it is smooth and fluffy. This will take about 2 to 3 minutes. Next, beat in 1 large egg and 1 extra egg yolk. Add in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and mix until everything is well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet mix. Stir until they are just combined. Then, fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. If you want, add in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts.
Baking and Serving the Cookie Skillet
Spread the cookie dough evenly in your prepared skillet. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Bake the skillet in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes. The edges should be golden, but the center can stay gooey. After baking, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice it into wedges and serve warm. For a special touch, add a scoop of ice cream on top if you like. Enjoy your delicious treat!
Tips & Tricks
How to Ensure Perfectly Fluffy Cookies
To make your cookie skillet fluffy, use room temperature butter. Cream it well with the sugars for 2-3 minutes. This step helps trap air. Adding an extra egg yolk also adds moisture and richness. Be careful not to overmix the dough after adding flour. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is baking too long. Watch for golden edges and a soft center. If you bake it too much, the cookie will be hard. Do not skip the salt; it enhances the flavor. Lastly, ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F. It can affect how your cookies rise and cook.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Ahead
You can prepare the dough ahead of time. Mix it up and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready, just spread it in the skillet and bake. You can also freeze the dough. Scoop it into balls and freeze. Bake from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the time.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter that incorporates air better, resulting in a fluffier cookie.
- Don't Overmix the Dough: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Customize Your Mix-ins: Feel free to substitute or add your favorite mix-ins like white chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet touch.
- Serve Warm: For the ultimate experience, serve the cookie skillet warm right out of the oven, ideally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream that melts into the gooey chocolate.
Variations
Fun Add-Ins for Different Flavors
You can easily change the flavor of your cookie skillet. Try adding different chips. Use white chocolate or dark chocolate for a fun twist. Nuts also add great texture. You can mix in chopped pecans or hazelnuts. For a fruity touch, consider adding dried cranberries or cherries. These add a nice tart flavor. You can even stir in peanut butter for a tasty surprise.
Gluten-Free or Vegan Alternatives
You can make this cookie skillet gluten-free. Just swap regular flour for almond or oat flour. This keeps the cookie tasty and soft. For a vegan option, use coconut oil instead of butter. Replace the egg with a flaxseed mix. Just mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This makes a great egg substitute!
Seasonal Variations to Try
Seasonal flavors make this cookie skillet even more special. In the fall, add pumpkin spice and some pumpkin puree. This gives a warm, cozy taste. During winter, mix in peppermint extract and crushed candy canes. It’s a festive treat! In summer, try adding fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries. They add a nice burst of flavor and color. These variations keep your cookie skillet fun and fresh all year long!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Cookie Skillet
To store leftover cookie skillet, let it cool completely. Cover it with plastic wrap or foil. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, move to freezing.
Freezing Tips for Cookie Skillet
You can freeze the cookie skillet for up to three months. First, let it cool down. Then, slice it into wedges for easy serving. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Be sure to remove as much air as you can.
Reheating Instructions for Best Results
To reheat your cookie skillet, first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skillet in the oven for about 10-15 minutes. Check if it’s warm throughout. You can also microwave individual slices for about 20-30 seconds. Serve warm, maybe with a scoop of ice cream.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of skillet?
Yes, you can use any oven-safe skillet. A cast-iron skillet works best. It heats evenly and gives a nice crust. You can also use a ceramic or metal skillet, but adjust baking time as needed. Just ensure it is safe for the oven.
How long can I store the cookie skillet?
You can store the cookie skillet for up to three days. Keep it covered at room temperature. For longer storage, place it in the fridge. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
Can I make this a dairy-free recipe?
Yes, you can! Use dairy-free butter or coconut oil. Substitute the chocolate chips with dairy-free ones as well. This way, you can still enjoy a warm, gooey cookie skillet without dairy.
What is the best way to serve a chocolate chip cookie skillet?
Serve it warm right out of the oven. Cut it into wedges for easy sharing. Top with a scoop of ice cream for a treat. You can also drizzle chocolate sauce on top for extra sweetness. Enjoy with friends or family for a fun dessert!
You learned about the key ingredients and how to bake a perfect chocolate chip cookie skillet. I shared tips for choosing quality items and common mistakes to skip. You can try fun variations or make it gluten-free. Remember to store leftovers right to enjoy later. Baking is fun and rewarding. Get creative with flavors, and share your tasty skillet with family. Enjoy your baking adventures!
