Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie
Highlighted under: Oven-Baked Delights
I absolutely love making a Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie for gatherings or just a cozy night in. There's something magical about the way the cookie bakes evenly in a skillet, resulting in a warm, gooey center and crispy edges. This is my go-to recipe because it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, and it never fails to impress. The aroma of melting chocolate chips combined with vanilla fills the kitchen and creates a comforting atmosphere. Trust me, you’ll want to dive right in after baking it!
One of my favorite aspects of cooking is trying new methods to elevate classic dishes. While experimenting in my kitchen, I decided to swap out the traditional cookie sheet for a skillet, resulting in a warm cookie that's both crispy and chewy. This method not only looks impressive but also allows for a wonderfully soft center that you just can't achieve with conventional baking. It was a total game changer!
When I first baked this skillet cookie, I was hesitant about using the skillet instead of my usual pan. However, I found that preheating the skillet ensures the cookie bakes beautifully. A quick tip: add an extra handful of chocolate chips on top just before finishing the baking for a stunning finish. Your guests will be raving about it!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor in every bite
- Warm and gooey center with crispy edges
- Perfectly ideal for sharing or a cozy indulgence
Essential Techniques for Baking
Baking a skillet cookie requires attention to detail, especially regarding the mixing of ingredients. When combining dry and wet mixtures, it’s crucial to mix just until incorporated—over-mixing can lead to a tougher cookie. You want to see some flour streaks in the dough, as this ensures the final product remains chewy and tender. Additionally, avoid pressing the dough too firmly into the skillet; a light touch helps maintain that delicious, soft center.
Another key technique is monitoring baking time and temperature. Every oven is different, so while the recipe suggests baking for 18-20 minutes, start checking at the lower end. Look for golden brown edges and a slightly underbaked center; the cookie will continue to cook slightly as it cools. If you have a thermometer, a perfect cookie should register around 180°F (82°C) in the center when done.
Ingredient Insights
The butter plays a vital role in this skillet cookie, imparting both flavor and moisture. For a richer taste, consider browning the butter before mixing it with the sugars. This technique adds a nutty flavor profile and a deeper richness that enhances the chocolate chips' sweetness. Ensure that the butter is melted but not too hot, as excessive heat can cook the egg prematurely when combined.
When selecting chocolate chips, the type you choose can significantly impact the final flavor. Semi-sweet chips are a classic choice, but you could mix in dark or milk chocolate for varied sweetness. Chopping chocolate bars instead of using chips can also add a gourmet touch; uneven chunks melt differently, giving you pockets of gooey chocolate throughout the cookie.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Skillet Cookie
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place your oven-safe skillet in to warm up.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined, then stir in the vanilla and egg.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Bake
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Pour the cookie dough into it and spread evenly. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Cool and Serve
Allow the skillet cookie to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite ice cream!
Pro Tips
- For an extra special touch, you can sprinkle sea salt over the top just before baking. It adds a savory contrast to the sweetness of the cookie.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This skillet cookie is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but it can be stored for later. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly to prevent drying out. It can last up to three days at room temperature. For longer storage, consider refrigerating it; just be sure to reheat slices in the microwave for a quick warm-up, which brings back its gooeyness.
If you want to prepare the dough ahead of time, you can refrigerate it for up to two days. This option not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld, leading to an even richer cookie. Just remember to let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before spreading it in the hot skillet.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your warm skillet cookie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a delightful treat. The contrast between the warm cookie and cold ice cream creates a symphony of textures and temperatures that’s simply irresistible. You could also top it with a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the sweetness and add an unexpected flavor twist.
For a festive touch, consider serving the skillet cookie with seasonal toppings, such as crushed peppermint candies during the holidays or fresh berries in the summer. These toppings not only add color but also balancing acidity to the rich cookie, creating a more rounded dessert experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can use dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even a mix for a unique flavor.
→ Can I make this cookie gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also reheat it in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
→ Can I double the recipe?
Yes, feel free to double the ingredients! Just use a larger skillet or bake it in two separate skillets.
Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie
I absolutely love making a Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie for gatherings or just a cozy night in. There's something magical about the way the cookie bakes evenly in a skillet, resulting in a warm, gooey center and crispy edges. This is my go-to recipe because it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, and it never fails to impress. The aroma of melting chocolate chips combined with vanilla fills the kitchen and creates a comforting atmosphere. Trust me, you’ll want to dive right in after baking it!
What You'll Need
For the Skillet Cookie
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place your oven-safe skillet in to warm up.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined, then stir in the vanilla and egg.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Pour the cookie dough into it and spread evenly. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Allow the skillet cookie to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite ice cream!
Extra Tips
- For an extra special touch, you can sprinkle sea salt over the top just before baking. It adds a savory contrast to the sweetness of the cookie.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g