Craving a warm, gooey dessert that hits the spot every time? Look no further than a Skillet Cookie à la Mode! This dessert is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing or indulging alone. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a warm cookie topped with creamy ice cream in no time. Join me as I guide you through this delicious recipe that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This skillet cookie comes together in just a few simple steps, making it a quick and satisfying dessert option.
- Warm and Gooey: Freshly baked from the oven, this cookie has a delightful warm center that pairs perfectly with melting ice cream.
- Customizable: You can easily switch up the chocolate types or add your favorite nuts to make it your own.
- Perfect for Sharing: With generous servings, it's ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in with friends and family.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 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
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream for serving
- Additional toppings: chocolate sauce, caramel sauce
Gathering the right ingredients makes all the difference. Start with the basics. You need 1 cup of all-purpose flour. This gives structure to your cookie. Then, grab 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. The baking soda helps the cookie rise, while the salt brings out the flavors.
Next, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. This adds a rich taste and keeps the cookie soft. Combine this with 1/2 cup of brown sugar and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. The brown sugar will add moisture and a slight chewiness.
Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a warm, sweet aroma. Then, crack in 1 large egg. This will bind everything together. Mix these wet ingredients well.
Now for the fun part—chocolate! Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips. You can mix dark and white if you desire. If you like nuts, toss in 1/4 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans.
To serve, you’ll need vanilla ice cream. It melts beautifully over the warm cookie. Finally, consider adding chocolate sauce or caramel sauce for extra flavor. These toppings will take your dessert to the next level.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Oven and Skillet
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grab your oven-safe skillet. It should be clean and dry.
Mixing the Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside for now.
- In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Blend them well.
- Add the vanilla extract and the egg to the butter-sugar mix. Beat until frothy.
- Gradually stir the dry mix into the wet mix. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts if you’re using them. Make sure they are evenly spread in the dough.
Baking the Cookie
- Pour the cookie dough into the preheated skillet. Spread it out evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness when the edges are golden. The center should be set but soft.
- Once done, take it out and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
Tips & Tricks
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the skillet cookie right from the pan for a cozy vibe.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a creamy finish.
- Drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
- Sprinkle some extra chocolate chips or nuts on the ice cream for fun.
Perfecting the Cookie Texture
- Bake the cookie until the edges are golden and the center is soft.
- Check it after 20 minutes. It should look puffy but not dry.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat and a nice crust.
- If you want a chewy cookie, underbake it slightly.
Enhancing the Flavor
- Mix dark and white chocolate chips for a rich taste.
- Try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch.
- A pinch of sea salt on top balances the sweet flavors.
- Experiment with flavored chocolate chips, like mint or toffee, for fun twists.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg and butter are at room temperature for better emulsification, leading to a smoother cookie dough.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to keep the cookie chewy and prevent it from becoming tough.
- Check for Doneness: Since the cookie will continue to cook after being removed from the oven, take it out when the edges are golden and the center is slightly underbaked.
- Experiment with Mix-Ins: Try adding different types of chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a unique flavor twist.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can easily switch up your skillet cookie by adding fun flavors. Try using different nuts, like walnuts or pecans. You can also add fruits like chopped apples or berries for a fruity twist. If you want to change the chocolate, swap chocolate chips for butterscotch or peanut butter chips. Each change adds a new taste and keeps it exciting.
Dietary Adjustments
Need to make this dessert fit your diet? No problem! For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or a gluten-free blend. If you're vegan, replace the butter with coconut oil and the egg with a flaxseed egg. This way, everyone can enjoy a warm skillet cookie without missing out.
Seasonal Twists
Bring in the seasons with unique flavors. In the fall, try adding pumpkin spice to the batter for a cozy taste. During the winter, mix in some peppermint extract for a festive touch. These seasonal twists make your dessert even more special and fun to share.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
Store your leftover skillet cookie in an airtight container. If you plan to eat it soon, keep it at room temperature. It will stay soft for a couple of days. For longer storage, place it in the fridge. The cold will keep it fresh for up to a week. If you want, you can also cut it into slices before storing. This way, it’s easy to grab a piece later.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your skillet cookie, use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place your cookie in the oven for about 5-10 minutes. This method warms it evenly and keeps it soft. You can also use a microwave. Heat it for 20-30 seconds. But be careful! Microwaving too long can make it tough.
For the best taste, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top after reheating. This creates a warm and creamy dessert. Enjoy your delicious skillet cookie!
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this skillet cookie ahead of time. To do this, prepare the dough and store it in the fridge. This helps keep it fresh. You can bake it later when you want to serve it. Just let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking. This makes it easier to spread in the skillet.
What can I do if my skillet cookie is too dry?
If your skillet cookie is dry, there are a few easy fixes. You can add a bit of melted butter or a splash of milk to the cookie. Mix it in gently. This adds moisture and makes the cookie softer. Another tip is to bake it for a shorter time next time. Check it a few minutes early for a gooey center.
Can I use a non-cast iron skillet?
Yes, you can use a non-cast iron skillet. Other oven-safe skillets work well too. Just make sure it can handle high heat. The baking time may change slightly. Keep an eye on the cookie as it bakes to ensure it cooks evenly.
In this blog post, we explored a delicious skillet cookie recipe. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step baking instructions, and expert tips for perfecting your cookie. I also shared tasty variations and storage advice. Remember, this cookie is easy to customize and is best served warm. Whether for a treat or family gathering, this recipe will shine. Enjoy your baking and share the joy with others!
