Are you ready to indulge in a warm, gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet? This easy dessert will become your new favorite! With just a few simple steps, you’ll create a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself. In this post, I will guide you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and pro tips to achieve cookie perfection. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Wonder: This skillet cookie is baked all in one pan, making cleanup a breeze and letting you enjoy more time with friends and family.
- Gooey Goodness: The center remains soft and chewy, offering a delightful contrast to the crispy edges that everyone loves in a cookie.
- Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit to make this dessert uniquely yours and perfect for any occasion.
- Serve It Warm: There's nothing quite like serving a warm slice topped with ice cream, creating a delicious melty dessert experience!
Ingredients
Complete Ingredient List
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and allowed to cool slightly
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional, for added crunch)
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving, optional)
Key Ingredients Explained
The main ingredient in this recipe is all-purpose flour. It gives the cookie structure. Baking soda helps it rise and stay soft. Sea salt balances the sweetness of the sugars.
Unsalted butter adds a rich flavor. It also helps to create a gooey texture. Brown sugar makes the cookie chewy. Granulated sugar adds sweetness and a light crunch.
The egg acts as a binder. It keeps the cookie together and adds moisture. Pure vanilla extract boosts the flavor. Chocolate chips provide that classic taste and melt wonderfully.
If you choose walnuts, they add a nice crunch. Vanilla ice cream, while optional, makes this dessert even more special.
Alternatives for Common Ingredients
If you don't have all-purpose flour, you can use gluten-free flour. It works well in this recipe. For those who want to cut sugar, try using coconut sugar instead of brown or granulated sugar.
If you're out of unsalted butter, coconut oil can be a great substitute. It gives a nice flavor and texture. You can use egg substitutes like applesauce or a flax egg for a vegan option.
Lastly, if you prefer dark chocolate or white chocolate chips, feel free to swap those in. Each choice will give a different taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Skillet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 10-inch cast-iron skillet. Spray it with non-stick spray or rub a thin layer of butter on the inside. This helps the cookie come out easily after baking.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, add 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. Whisk these together until they blend well. This step prevents clumps and keeps your cookie soft.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, pour in 1/2 cup of slightly cooled melted butter. Add 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Mix these until they become smooth and creamy. You want a light texture here.
Merging Mixtures
Now, crack 1 large egg into the butter-sugar mix. Pour in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it's fully blended. The egg should be mixed in well, adding moisture and richness.
Baking the Cookie Skillet
Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Next, fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped walnuts if you want a little crunch.
Spoon the dough into your prepared skillet. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Place the skillet in your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for golden edges and a soft center.
Cooling and Serving Tips
After baking, take the skillet out and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This helps the cookie firm up a bit. Slice it into wedges and serve warm. For extra joy, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Enjoy the gooey chocolate goodness!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Cookie Texture
To get the ideal texture for your chocolate chip cookie skillet, follow these key steps:
- Use room-temperature egg: A room-temperature egg blends better and helps the dough rise.
- Don’t overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. This keeps your cookie soft.
- Chill the dough: If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and improves texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many home cooks make simple mistakes that can ruin their cookie skillet. Here are some to watch for:
- Wrong oven temperature: Always preheat your oven to 350°F. An incorrect temperature can lead to uneven baking.
- Skipping the greasing step: Greasing the skillet ensures easy removal. Don’t skip this step!
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cookie. It should look golden at the edges but still soft in the center.
Baking Time Adjustments for Different Ovens
Every oven is a bit different. Here are some tips for adjusting baking time:
- Convection ovens: If using a convection oven, reduce the baking time by about 5 minutes. This oven circulates hot air, cooking faster.
- Older ovens: These may run cooler. If your cookies are undercooked, add a few extra minutes.
- Check at 20 minutes: Start checking your cookie at around 20 minutes. This way, you catch it at the perfect moment.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your egg and butter are at room temperature helps them blend more smoothly, resulting in a better texture for your cookie.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mixing just until the ingredients are combined prevents the cookies from becoming tough and helps maintain a soft, chewy center.
- Check for Doneness: The cookie is ready when the edges are golden brown and the center looks slightly underbaked; it will continue to firm up as it cools.
- Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to customize your skillet cookie by adding different types of chocolate, nuts, or even dried fruits for a unique flavor profile.
Variations
Adding Toppings (e.g., nuts, caramel, or sea salt)
You can customize your chocolate chip cookie skillet with tasty toppings. Add chopped nuts for a nice crunch. Walnuts work well, but almonds or pecans are great too. For a sweet twist, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top. It adds flavor and richness. A sprinkle of sea salt enhances the sweetness too. Just a pinch will do. These toppings make each bite even more delicious.
Using Different Types of Chocolate Chips
Switching up chocolate chips can change the taste. Semi-sweet chips are classic, but milk chocolate brings a sweeter flavor. Dark chocolate adds a nice depth if you like bold tastes. Try white chocolate chips for a creamy contrast. You can even mix types for a fun surprise. Each option makes your skillet cookie unique.
Gluten-Free or Vegan Alternatives
You can make this cookie skillet gluten-free. Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. Check the label to ensure it works for baking. For a vegan version, swap the butter for coconut oil. Use a flax egg instead of a real egg. Just mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes to thicken. These changes let everyone enjoy this treat!
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
To keep your chocolate chip cookie skillet fresh, let it cool first. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, move it to the fridge. It will last about a week in the fridge. Just remember to wrap it well to avoid drying out.
How to Reheat for Optimal Taste
When you want to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is key. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skillet cookie in the oven for about 10 minutes. This will warm it and keep it soft. If you're in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Heat it for 15-20 seconds. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a sweet treat!
Freezing Instructions
Freezing is a great option if you want to save some for later. Allow the cookie skillet to cool completely. Then, slice it into wedges. Wrap each wedge in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze these for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat as directed above for a warm, gooey dessert anytime!
FAQs
Can I make this cookie skillet ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Just mix the wet and dry ingredients as directed. Store it in the fridge for up to two days. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, spread it in the skillet and bake as usual.
What can I serve with this chocolate chip cookie skillet?
This cookie skillet pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream melts into the warm cookie, creating a delightful treat. You can also drizzle chocolate sauce or caramel on top for extra flavor. Nuts or sprinkles can add a fun touch too.
How do I know when the cookie is done baking?
Check the edges of the cookie. They should be golden brown. The center may look soft, but it will firm up as it cools. If the top is set and slightly cracked, it's ready. Avoid overbaking to keep it chewy and gooey.
Can I use a different type of skillet?
You can use any oven-safe skillet, but I recommend cast iron for best results. It holds heat well and helps create a nice crust. If you use a non-stick skillet, make sure it is safe for oven use. Just remember to adjust the baking time if the skillet is smaller or larger.
This blog post shared how to make a delicious cookie skillet. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking methods, and tips for perfect texture. I also shared fun variations and storage tips to keep your cookie fresh.
Remember, baking should be fun. Don’t be afraid to try new flavors or toppings. Enjoy your cookie skillet warm with a scoop of ice cream. With practice, you'll master it in no time. Happy baking!
