Are you ready to indulge in a warm, gooey treat? My Caramel Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie is an easy recipe that brings joy with every bite. It combines buttery goodness, rich chocolate, and sweet caramel, all baked in one skillet. Perfect for sharing (or not!), this dessert will impress friends and family. Let’s dive into the ingredients and start baking your new favorite treat!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: This skillet cookie combines rich chocolate and gooey caramel, making every bite a delightful indulgence.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Sharing: Baked in a skillet, this cookie is great for gatherings, allowing everyone to dig in and enjoy together.
- Warm and Comforting: There's nothing like a warm cookie fresh from the oven, especially when topped with ice cream!
Ingredients
List of main ingredients
- Butter, sugars, and eggs
You need one cup of unsalted butter, softened. This adds rich flavor. Use one cup of brown sugar and half a cup of granulated sugar. These sugars help the cookie stay soft. You'll also need two large eggs to bind everything together.
- Dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, and salt
For the dry mix, gather two and a quarter cups of all-purpose flour. This forms the base of the cookie. Add in one teaspoon of baking soda for lift. Finally, include half a teaspoon of salt to balance the sweetness.
- Add-ins: chocolate chips and caramel bits
You can't forget the fun stuff! Measure one cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. They melt nicely and add texture. Then, add one cup of caramel bits or cut soft caramel squares into small pieces. These will melt and create gooey pockets of sweetness in your cookie.
This mix of ingredients creates a rich and satisfying skillet cookie that everyone will love.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation steps
1. Preheat the oven and cream the butter and sugars: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms the oven for an even bake. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Beat these together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
2. Incorporate the eggs and vanilla: Next, add 2 large eggs, one at a time. Make sure to mix well after each egg. Then, stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to add flavor.
3. Mix dry ingredients and combine with wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. This keeps your cookie soft.
Baking process
1. Prepare the skillet for baking: Take a 10-inch cast-iron skillet and grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This step helps the cookie come out easily after baking.
2. Spread the dough and add toppings: Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup of caramel bits. Spread the dough evenly in the skillet. Smooth the top with a spatula. For extra flavor, sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt on top.
3. Bake and cool before serving: Place the skillet in the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for golden brown edges and a set center. When done, take it out and let it cool for 10 minutes. This cooling time helps the cookie firm up. Enjoy it warm!
Tips & Tricks
Baking tips for perfect results
- Avoiding overmixing the dough: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can make the cookie tough. You want a soft and chewy texture. Gently fold in the chocolate chips and caramel bits. This keeps your cookie light and tasty.
- Ensuring even baking in the skillet: Spread the dough evenly in your skillet. This helps it bake uniformly. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Check the cookie around the edges for doneness first. The center will firm up as it cools.
Serving suggestions
- Topping with ice cream and caramel sauce: Serve the warm cookie right from the skillet. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra sweetness. The warm cookie and cold ice cream create a great mix.
- Best practices for presentation: Use a small pinch of sea salt on top. It adds a nice touch. You can also serve slices with fresh fruit or nuts. This makes your dessert look fancy and appetizing.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming with the sugars, resulting in a fluffier cookie dough.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined to avoid a tough texture; a few flour streaks are okay!
- Check for Doneness: The cookie should be golden brown around the edges but still slightly soft in the center; it will continue to set as it cools.
- Customize with Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts, white chocolate, or even dried fruit to the dough for an extra flavor twist!
Variations
Flavor substitutions
You can change the nuts in this cookie. Try using pecans or walnuts for a crunchy twist. Both add a rich flavor.
When it comes to chocolate, you have options. Use dark chocolate for a deep, intense taste. White chocolate provides a sweet contrast. Mix and match to find your favorite combo!
Dietary modifications
If you need a gluten-free version, swap regular flour for almond or oat flour. These alternatives work well in this recipe. Just ensure they are gluten-free.
For vegan modifications, replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Use flax eggs instead of real eggs. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes to thicken. This creates a great binder for your cookie dough!
Storage Info
How to store leftovers
After you enjoy your caramel chocolate chip skillet cookie, store any leftovers properly. You can keep it at room temperature for up to two days. If you want it to last longer, place it in the refrigerator.
To store it, use an airtight container. This keeps the cookie fresh and prevents it from drying out. If you don't have a container, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
Reheating instructions
When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, reheating is key. The best way to reheat the skillet cookie is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookie on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes.
You can also use the microwave. Heat it for about 15-20 seconds. This method warms the cookie but may make it a bit softer. If you want to restore some crunch, the oven method is best. Enjoy your warm cookie just like it was fresh!
FAQs
What is a skillet cookie?
A skillet cookie is a giant cookie baked in a skillet. It is thick, chewy, and soft. Unlike regular cookies, which you bake in small portions, a skillet cookie offers a shareable treat. It has a crispy edge and a gooey center. You can scoop it out with a spoon or slice it like a pie. This fun twist makes it perfect for parties or family gatherings.
Can I use other types of caramel?
Yes, you can use other types of caramel! If you can’t find caramel bits, try soft caramel squares. Just cut them into small pieces. You can also make homemade caramel if you prefer. Melt sugar and cream together for a rich flavor. Each option adds a unique touch to your skillet cookie.
How do I know when the skillet cookie is done?
To tell if the skillet cookie is done, check the edges. They should be golden brown, while the center may look slightly undercooked. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs. It’s important to let it cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling time helps the cookie firm up and makes it easier to slice.
Making a skillet cookie involves simple steps: gather ingredients, mix, bake, and serve. You learned about the key ingredients and how to prepare them. We also explored tips to ensure your cookie turns out perfect every time. Don’t forget the fun variations and storage tips to enjoy your treat later. Skillet cookies are easy to make and share, so gather your friends and family. This delightful dessert can be changed to fit any taste, and it’s sure to impress! Happy baking!
