Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie

A Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie is the ultimate indulgent dessert—a warm, gooey cookie baked in a cast-iron skillet, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. With melty chocolate chips, a slightly crisp edge, and a soft, chewy center, this dessert is comforting, decadent, and irresistible.

This skillet cookie is ideal for family dinners, casual gatherings, or a cozy night in. Unlike traditional cookies baked on sheets, the skillet method gives it a golden crust with a soft interior, almost like a cross between a cookie and a brownie.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers all the warmth and nostalgia of homemade chocolate chip cookies with a fun, rustic presentation. Baking it in a skillet creates a caramelized edge and a molten, chewy center, making every bite indulgent.

It’s versatile—you can add nuts, swap chocolates, or drizzle caramel or peanut butter. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and always impresses guests, making it my go-to dessert when I want something easy yet decadent.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Gooey, melty, and irresistibly chocolatey.
• Perfect for sharing or enjoying alone.
• Quick and simple to prepare with pantry staples.
• Rustic, impressive presentation without fancy techniques.
• Easily customizable with mix-ins and toppings.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 30–35 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: American / Baking
• Estimated Calories: 350–400 per serving

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½–2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
• Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-inch cast-iron skillet with butter or nonstick spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips and optional nuts.
6. Spread cookie dough evenly in the prepared skillet.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until edges are golden and the center is set but still soft. Do not overbake for a gooey center.
8. Allow to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat oven: 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-inch cast-iron skillet.
2. Cream butter and sugars: Beat until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs and vanilla: Mix well until incorporated.
4. Combine dry ingredients: Flour, baking soda, salt. Gradually add to wet mixture.
5. Fold in chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
6. Spread dough in skillet evenly.
7. Bake: 20–25 minutes until edges are golden; center slightly soft.
8. Cool and serve: 5–10 minutes; optionally top with ice cream or drizzle chocolate/caramel.

How to Serve

• Serve warm directly from the skillet.
• Top with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate/caramel sauce.
• Slice into wedges and enjoy with coffee or milk.
• Perfect for casual dessert gatherings or date-night indulgence.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overmix the dough; it keeps the cookie tender.
• Avoid overbaking to maintain a gooey center.
• Use room-temperature butter for smooth creaming.
• Skillet ensures a crisp edge; a round baking dish can be used as an alternative.
• Let the cookie rest briefly after baking; it continues to set while cooling.

Variations

Double Chocolate: Replace ½ cup flour with cocoa powder and add white chocolate chips.
Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
Salted Caramel: Drizzle caramel and sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before serving.
Peanut Butter Swirl: Drop dollops of peanut butter and swirl into the dough before baking.
Fruit Twist: Add dried cherries, cranberries, or raspberries to the dough.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftover cookie in the skillet or airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently in oven or microwave.
• Freezing: Portion cookie dough before baking into balls, freeze in a single layer, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes to baking time.

Special Equipment Needed

• 10-inch cast-iron skillet (or oven-safe baking dish)
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer (optional, for creaming butter)
• Spatula

FAQ

Q: Can I use a regular baking dish instead of a skillet?
Yes, a round 9-inch baking dish works fine; edges won’t be as crisp.

Q: How do I make the center extra gooey?
Slightly underbake and allow the cookie to rest in the skillet for 5–10 minutes.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Q: Can I use dark or milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely; adjust sweetness according to preference.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, cookie dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.

Conclusion

Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie is a decadent, comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its gooey center, golden edges, and melty chocolate, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s quick and easy to prepare. Highly customizable with mix-ins and toppings, this dessert offers the indulgence of a bakery-style cookie in a rustic, shareable format. Perfect for cozy nights, celebrations, or casual gatherings, this skillet cookie is a must-try for chocolate lovers of all ages.