Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie

Name: Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Joy

When I first baked this Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie, I was amazed at how perfectly it melded the flavors of a classic chocolate chip cookie with a twist of warm, baked dessert. The combination of a crunchy exterior with a gooey, molten center was nothing short of heavenly. I love that it only takes around 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect treat for spontaneous cravings. Each bite is filled with melty chocolate chips that create a comforting atmosphere, whether it's a cozy night in or a casual gathering with friends.

Created by

Aubrey Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:13:36.771Z

My journey to the perfect Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie began on a rainy afternoon when I was craving something sweet. I decided to experiment with a skillet instead of the usual baking sheet. I discovered that the skillet not only retains heat beautifully but also helps create that desirable chewy texture in the center while ensuring a golden edge. The aroma wafting through my kitchen was irresistible!

One crucial tip I learned along the way is to slightly under-bake the cookie. Pull it out of the oven when the edges are set, but the middle still looks a bit soft; it will continue to cook as it cools. Trust me, this will ensure that delightful gooey center everyone loves!

Reasons You'll Fall in Love
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

The Perfect Balance of Texture

One of the most appealing features of this Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie is its delightful contrast in textures. The cookie develops a golden-brown, crispy edge while remaining soft and gooey in the center. This is achieved by baking it until the edges are perfectly set while the middle retains a slightly underbaked appearance. When you tap the center gently, it should yield slightly but not collapse, ensuring that your skillet cookie is both chewy and indulgent.

The use of melted butter rather than softened butter is key in creating that rich texture. Melted butter allows the sugar to dissolve more easily, resulting in a smoother batter that contributes to the creamy mouthfeel. Additionally, be careful not to overmix once you add the dry ingredients; stopping as soon as combined helps avoid gluten development, which keeps the cookie tender.

Ingredient Importance and Alternatives

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a critical role in achieving the best flavor and texture. For instance, brown sugar not only sweetens but also adds a depth of flavor due to its molasses content, enhancing the overall richness of the cookie. If you find yourself out of brown sugar, you can substitute it with an equal measure of granulated sugar mixed with a tablespoon of molasses for a similar effect.

Do not skimp on the chocolate chips; they are the star of the dish. I recommend using a mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate chips for a more complex flavor profile. If you're looking to make this dish a bit healthier, you could also use dark chocolate chips, which contain more cocoa solids and less sugar. For a nutty twist, try adding chopped nuts or substituting some of the flour with ground oats.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your chocolate chip skillet cookie:

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips

Once you have everything ready, we can proceed to bake!

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to create your delicious skillet cookie:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth, then add the egg and vanilla extract, stirring until fully incorporated.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.

Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed in the dough.

Bake

Pour the cookie dough into a greased cast-iron skillet and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is still slightly soft.

Cool and Serve

Let the skillet cookie cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, preferably with a scoop of ice cream on top!

Enjoy your warm, gooey chocolate chip skillet cookie!

Pro Tips

For an extra special touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top just before baking for a delightful sweet and salty contrast.

Storing and Reheating

To keep your Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, placing it in the refrigerator can extend its life, but be warned that it might lose some of its gooey texture.

When reheating, I recommend warming individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. If you have a whole skillet left, pop it back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This will help revive that gooey center and restore the delightful crispy edges.

Variation Ideas

For those who enjoy a flavor twist, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. This subtle change can elevate the entire profile of your skillet cookie, making it taste like a warm hug on a cold day. Alternatively, you can incorporate different types of chocolate such as white chocolate or even butterscotch chips to customize your treat to your liking.

You can also create a decadent topping by drizzling a homemade chocolate ganache or caramel sauce over the warm skillet cookie before serving. For an unusual twist, try topping it with fresh fruits like berries or banana slices for a refreshing contrast against the richness of the cookie.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate chips will add a richer flavor to the skillet cookie.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cookie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a nice addition for some crunch.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version.