Easy Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe to Try Today
If you’re craving something that’s warm, rich, and delightfully gooey, this Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe is exactly what you need! It brings together the comfort of a freshly baked cookie with the fun, shareable appeal of a skillet dessert. Ready in under an hour, this recipe is not just easy but incredibly satisfying, perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself to something homemade and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Gooeyness: The center stays soft and molten while edges get perfectly crisp for a wonderful contrast.
- No Fuss Preparation: Uses simple pantry staples and minimal equipment, making it a quick go-to dessert.
- Shareable and Fun: Baked in a skillet, it’s perfect for serving straight out of the oven, encouraging everyone to dig in together.
- Customizable: Easy to tweak with nuts, different chocolates, or alternative ingredients to suit your tastes or diet.
- Impressively Aromatic: The scent of warm vanilla and melted chocolate filling your kitchen is pure magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe, you’ll rely on a handful of classic ingredients, each playing a vital role in crafting that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and appearance. The blend of sugars enhances sweetness and browning while butter adds richness and tenderness.
- Butter: Provides a creamy base for flavor and keeps the cookie tender throughout.
- Sugars (brown and granulated): Brown sugar adds moisture and a caramel depth while granulated sugar contributes to crisp edges.
- Egg: Holds the dough together and adds richness.
- Vanilla extract: Adds fragrant warmth and enhances all other flavors.
- All-purpose flour: The main structure provider, essential for that chewy yet firm texture.
- Baking soda: Helps the cookie rise slightly for a lighter texture.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: The star ingredient that melts into gooey pockets of chocolatey goodness.
Variations for Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic base for personalization. You can easily tweak it to fit your cravings, dietary needs, or ingredient availability. Don’t hesitate to get creative with additions that suit your palette.
- Nutty Upgrade: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a toasty crunch.
- Double Chocolate: Mix in cocoa powder for a richer flavor and use dark chocolate chips.
- Healthier Swap: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat or oat flour for added fiber.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut oil or vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Extra Sweet: Sprinkle some sea salt flakes on top before baking to enhance the sweetness.
- Fruity Twist: Toss in dried cranberries or cherries for bursts of tartness.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Skillet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 10-inch oven-safe skillet with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and to help develop a golden crust on the cookie edges.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat softened butter with both brown and granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light in color—this is key for a tender texture.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined, making sure the mixture is smooth and glossy as this adds richness.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and seasoning throughout the cookie dough.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring just until combined; avoid overmixing to keep the cookie tender.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in your chocolate chips, saving a handful to sprinkle on top for a visually appealing finish.
Step 7: Bake the Cookie
Transfer the dough into the prepared skillet, smoothing the top evenly. Sprinkle remaining chips on top and bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are golden brown while the center stays soft.
Step 8: Cooling and Serving
Allow the skillet cookie to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving so the center sets slightly but remains warm and gooey.
Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better blending and texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye near the end of baking to avoid a dry cookie; a slightly underdone center is perfect.
- Use Quality Chocolate: Good quality chocolate chips or chunks melt better and taste richer.
- Chill the Dough: For a thicker, chewier cookie, chill the dough in the skillet before baking for 20-30 minutes.
- Rotate the Skillet: Halfway through baking, rotate the skillet for even browning, especially if your oven has hot spots.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe
Garnishes
Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to elevate the dessert visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
Pair with fresh berries or a small bowl of whipped cream to add contrast to the rich, dense cookie.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve directly in the skillet with wooden spoons for a rustic, communal experience, or cut into wedges and plate individually with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh mint leaves.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days to preserve softness and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked skillet cookie by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then placing it in a freezer-safe bag; it will keep for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. For quick warming, use a microwave for 20-30 seconds, but the oven method preserves crispiness better.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chocolate besides semi-sweet chips?
Absolutely! You can substitute with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips depending on your taste preference.
Is it necessary to use a cast-iron skillet?
While cast iron is ideal for even heat and beautiful crust, any oven-safe skillet or baking dish will work just fine.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, you can enjoy a gluten-free version without sacrificing taste.
How do I achieve a gooey center instead of a fully cooked cookie?
Baking for slightly less time and keeping a close eye on the edges for doneness helps keep the center soft and gooey.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to this recipe?
Definitely. Adding nuts, dried fruit, or even toffee bits offers exciting texture and flavor variations.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe is a warm hug in dessert form and a fantastic option when you want something quick, delicious, and shareable. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite to bake repeatedly—so go ahead, gather your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and treat yourself today!
