Are you ready to bake a treat that looks as good as it tastes? This Caramel Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie is not just a dessert; it’s an experience! With gooey caramel and melting chocolate in every bite, you will wow your family and friends. In this post, I’ll guide you through simple steps to create this delightful pan of goodness. Say goodbye to ordinary cookies and get ready for a scrumptious adventure!
Ingredients
To make a Caramel Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
– 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 caramel bits (or soft caramel candies, roughly chopped)
– Flaky sea salt for finishing
These ingredients create a rich and gooey cookie. The butter gives a soft texture, while the sugars add sweetness. The eggs help bind everything together, and the vanilla gives a warm flavor. Flour and baking soda create the cookie base, while sea salt balances the sweetness. The chocolate chips and caramel bits bring a delightful mix of flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the cookie bake evenly.
– In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Mix until fluffy.
– Next, add 2 large eggs, one at a time. Beat well after each egg. Then, mix in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract until smooth.
Combining Dry Ingredients
– In another bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt. This blends the dry elements well.
Final Assembly
– Carefully fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of caramel bits. Use a spatula to mix gently.
– Transfer the dough to a well-greased cast-iron skillet. Spread it evenly using the spatula.
Cooling and Serving
– Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Look for golden edges while the center remains soft.
– Once done, cool the cookie in the skillet for about 10 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top. This adds a nice touch!
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
To bake your caramel chocolate chip skillet cookie just right, timing is key. I suggest setting your timer for 25 minutes. This way, you can keep an eye on it. The edges should turn a nice golden brown. The center must still look a bit soft. It will firm up while cooling.
To check if it’s done, gently poke the center with your finger. If it springs back, it’s ready. If it leaves a dent, give it a few more minutes. Trust me; this step saves you from a gooey mess!
Flavor Enhancements
Want to add a twist? Consider mixing in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. They add a nice crunch. You could also try different extracts. Almond or hazelnut extracts bring unique flavors.
For serving, I recommend a big scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The cold ice cream melts into the warm cookie, creating a dreamy dessert. You could even drizzle extra caramel sauce for added sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overmixing the dough. This can make your cookie tough. Mix until the flour just disappears, then stop!
Another pitfall is baking at the wrong temperature. Too high can burn the edges, while too low makes it flat. Always use an oven thermometer if you’re unsure. Keeping it at 350°F (175°C) is the sweet spot for this skillet cookie.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can change some ingredients for your skillet cookie. For sweetness, swap regular sugar with coconut sugar. This gives a nice, rich flavor. If you need gluten-free options, use almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Both will work well and keep the cookie tasty.
Flavor Variations
Mix up your chocolate! Dark chocolate adds a bold taste, while white chocolate makes it sweet and creamy. You can also add spices for extra flavor. A pinch of cinnamon can give warmth and depth. Just a little can change the whole cookie!
Additions and Toppings
Want to add some crunch? Toss in nuts like walnuts or pecans. They add a great texture. For a finishing touch, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top. You can also drizzle extra caramel or chocolate sauce for a sweet treat that looks amazing.
Storage Info
Storage Recommendations
To keep your caramel chocolate chip skillet cookie fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps keep the cookie soft and moist. If you have leftover cookie, make sure to let it cool before packing it away. You can refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookie. Cut it into slices and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever you like!
Reheating Tips
When it’s time to enjoy your cookie again, reheat it in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookie on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes. This helps restore its warm, gooey texture. If you want to get fancy, add a scoop of ice cream on top when serving.
You can also repurpose leftovers by crumbling them into yogurt or ice cream. This adds a sweet crunch to your dessert. Another fun idea is to make cookie sandwiches. Just spread some frosting or nut butter between two slices of the cookie. Enjoy the creativity!
FAQs
What is a skillet cookie?
A skillet cookie is a large, thick cookie baked in a skillet. It has a soft center and crispy edges. This cookie is often served warm and can be enjoyed straight from the skillet. The texture is chewy and gooey, thanks to the melting chocolate and caramel bits.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Mix the dough and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This helps the flavors blend well. When ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Then spread it in the skillet and bake as usual.
How do I know when the skillet cookie is done?
To check for doneness, look for golden edges. The center should look set but still soft. You can also gently press the center with your finger; it should feel firm but not hard. Remember, the cookie will continue to firm up as it cools.
Can I customize the recipe further?
Absolutely! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunch. Swap out semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate or white chocolate. You can also mix in dried fruits like cherries or raisins. Get creative with your favorite flavors!
This blog post covered a delicious skillet cookie recipe. We went over the needed ingredients, clear steps to make it, and tips for a perfect bake. I shared fun ways to mix it up and how to store leftovers. Remember, your skillet cookie can be a true treat! With the right care, it will shine every time you bake. Enjoy experimenting and sharing this sweet creation with loved ones. Your baking journey starts now!
