Nothing beats the warm, gooey, chocolatey delight of a deep-dish chocolate chip skillet cookie straight from the oven. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family gathering, a celebration, or simply because you’re craving a sweet treat, this dessert is bound to impress. With its crispy edges and a soft, melty center, this skillet cookie is the perfect combination of textures and flavors. In this article, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, pro tips, and variations to make your skillet cookie stand out. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples that you probably already have at home.
- One-Pan Dessert – Fewer dishes, less cleanup, and maximum flavor.
- Perfect Texture – Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside.
- Versatile – Easily customizable with different add-ins like nuts or white chocolate chips.
Ingredients for the Perfect Skillet Cookie
To make the best deep-dish chocolate chip skillet cookie, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Pro Tip:
Using high-quality chocolate chips makes a huge difference. Opt for brands that use real cocoa butter for the best melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips.
2. Bake the Cookie
- Transfer the cookie dough into a 10-inch ovenproof skillet, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still soft.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookie cool in the skillet for about 15 minutes before serving.
3. Serve & Enjoy
- Slice the warm skillet cookie into wedges.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Expert Tips for the Best Skillet Cookie
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can make your cookie tough. Mix just until combined.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: This retains heat well, giving you crisp edges and a soft center.
- Slightly Underbake: The residual heat from the skillet will continue cooking the cookie even after it’s out of the oven.
- Chill the Dough: For deeper flavor, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Creative Variations
1. Nutty Delight
Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for an added crunch.
2. Double Chocolate Skillet Cookie
Replace 1/2 cup of flour with unsweetened cocoa powder for an ultra-rich chocolate flavor.
3. Salted Caramel Swirl
Drizzle caramel sauce over the dough before baking and sprinkle with flaky sea salt for a sweet-salty balance.
4. Peanut Butter Bliss
Swirl 1/2 cup of peanut butter into the dough before baking for a nutty twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I use a different pan instead of a skillet?
If you don’t have a skillet, you can use a 9-inch cake pan or a baking dish, but the texture may differ slightly.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover cookie slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Warm it in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
4. Can I freeze this cookie?
Yes! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before enjoying.
5. How do I know when the cookie is done?
The edges should be golden brown, but the center should still be slightly soft and gooey.
6. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Conclusion
A deep-dish chocolate chip skillet cookie is the ultimate dessert for any occasion. With its crispy edges, gooey center, and rich chocolate flavor, this treat is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different add-ins, this recipe is easy to customize and always delivers. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream, and you’ve got yourself the perfect indulgence. So grab your skillet and get baking—you won’t regret it!