Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie

Imagine pulling a freshly baked cookie straight from the oven, its warm, gooey center beckoning you to take a bite. The Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie is the perfect dessert for any occasion, providing all the nostalgic flavors of your favorite cookie but in an even more decadent form. It’s a crowd-pleasing treat that’s not only simple to make but also deliciously comforting. This giant cookie is baked in a skillet, delivering a crisp edge with a soft, chewy center that melts in your mouth. Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie is a game-changer for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, requiring minimal prep time and just one pan. Secondly, the sharing factor is perfect for gatherings—no need to cut individual cookies; just slice it into wedges and serve! Lastly, the combination of rich butters, brown sugars, and decadent chocolate creates an indulgent experience like no other. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in, a party, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this skillet cookie is sure to impress.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips (milk, dark, or semi-sweet)
• 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

How To Make Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your skillet cookie bakes evenly and achieves that perfect gooey texture.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, giving your cookie a wonderful texture.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Next, add in the two large eggs and the extra egg yolk to the mixture. Beat until everything is well blended and smooth. The yolk adds richness and helps create that chewy center that we all love in a cookie.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. When you see the flour disappearing, stop mixing; over-mixing can lead to a tough cookie.

Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Now, it’s time to add the star of the show—chocolate! Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped semi-sweet chocolate using a spatula. This will ensure that the chocolate is evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.

Step 6: Prepare the Skillet

Take a 10-inch cast-iron skillet (or any oven-safe skillet) and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little softened butter to prevent sticking. You want to make sure every crumb comes out easily!

Step 7: Bake the Cookie

Spoon the cookie dough into the prepared skillet, spreading it evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top if needed. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is just set. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly after you take it out!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, take the skillet out of the oven and allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling time allows the cookie to set further. Serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of ice cream on top, for an indulgent treat!

Expert Tips

• For an extra rich flavor, use high-quality chocolate chips—your taste buds will thank you!
• Don’t skip the step of creaming the butter and sugars; it makes a big difference in texture.
• If you prefer a thicker cookie, you can slightly increase the amount of flour by ¼ cup.
• For an added kick, sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the cookie just before baking for a sweet-savory combo.

Variations and Customizations

There are countless ways to make this Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie your own! Here are a few ideas to spark your creativity:

• Mix in your favorite nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch.
• Try different types of chocolate, such as white chocolate or butterscotch chips.
• Incorporate other flavors like peanut butter or almond extract for a unique twist.
• Top it with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an even more decadent dessert.

How to Store Leftovers

To store any leftover cookie, allow it to cool completely, then cover the skillet with plastic wrap or transfer the cookie to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can warm it back up in the oven or microwave for a few seconds to retain that gooey goodness!

FAQ

Can I make this cookie without a cast-iron skillet?

Absolutely! You can use any oven-safe skillet or a baking pan. Just remember that cooking times may vary based on the size of the pan.

Can I freeze the dough for later use?

Yes! You can scoop the cookie dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I ensure the cookie is perfectly chewy?

Make sure not to overbake the cookie! The edges should be golden, but the center can look slightly underbaked; it will set as it cools.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Certainly! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it measures cup for cup.

Conclusion

The Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie is a delightful way to enjoy a beloved classic. With its warm, cheesy center and crispy edges, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Easy to make, perfect for sharing, and endlessly customizable, this skillet cookie checks all the boxes for dessert perfection. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this mouthwatering dessert—you deserve it!