Whether you're seeking a delicious treat for a cozy night in, a crowd-pleasing dessert for a gathering, or simply want to indulge in your sweet tooth with a twist, this Giant Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie might just be the dessert of your dreams. This no-fuss recipe promises a crunchy exterior with a gooey, melty center, making it a perfect shareable snack right out of the skillet.
Why a Giant Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie?
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Generosity in Every Bite 🍪: There’s something inherently heartwarming about diving into a dessert that’s meant to be shared. A giant cookie bakes up with an irresistible combination of textures and flavors, amplifying the experience of eating a regular cookie.
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Effortlessly Impressive: A large skillet cookie is not only easier to make than individual cookies, but it also creates a striking centerpiece. It's a dessert that looks as good as it tastes, making you seem like a culinary pro without the extra effort.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 2 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (plus extra for sprinkling on top)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional for a crunchy twist)
Preparation Steps
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1. Preheat and Prepare
- Oven to 350°F: Set your oven to bake at 350°F (175°C). Ensure your skillet is oven-safe or use a cast-iron skillet for the best results.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
- Flour, Baking Soda, and Salt: In a medium bowl, combine your flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together to incorporate evenly.
3. Creaming Butter and Sugars
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Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add Vanilla and Eggs: Incorporate the vanilla extract, followed by the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Blend Wet and Dry
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tougher cookie.
5. Chocolate Chip Magic
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Stir in the chocolate chips by hand or with a gentle mix. Here’s where you can also add nuts if desired.
6. Skillet Assembly
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Transfer to Skillet: Press the cookie dough into an oven-safe skillet or pan. Smooth the top for even cooking.
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Top with Extra Chips: Sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top for that extra visual appeal.
7. Bake to Perfection
- Bake Time: Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The cookie should be golden brown at the edges but still soft in the center.
8. Cooling and Serving
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Cool Briefly: Allow the cookie to cool for a few minutes; it will firm up as it cools.
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Serve: Serve it directly from the skillet or transfer to a board for cutting. Best enjoyed warm!
<p class="pro-note">☕️ Note: The skillet will remain hot, handle with oven mitts and place on a heat-resistant surface for serving.</p>
Customizing Your Giant Cookie
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You can play with this basic recipe in numerous ways:
- Nuts and Seeds: Add pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for texture and flavor.
- Different Chips: Try using white, dark, or milk chocolate chips or even butterscotch chips.
- Fruit: Incorporate dried cranberries or cherries for a tangy twist.
- Booze: A small amount of bourbon or rum can elevate the flavor profile for an adults-only dessert.
<p class="pro-note">🎨 Note: Experiment with different flavor combinations to create your signature skillet cookie.</p>
Skillet Cookie Party Fun
If you’re hosting, involve your guests in the fun of baking:
- Cookie Toppings Bar: Set up a topping station with ice cream, syrups, sprinkles, and more for a DIY dessert experience.
- Interactive Baking: Let each guest add their favorite toppings or chips before you pop the skillet in the oven.
Conclusion
Creating and enjoying a giant skillet cookie isn't just about satisfying a craving; it's an experience. It offers warmth, comfort, and the joy of sharing. Whether you serve it with ice cream, whipped cream, or enjoy it plain, this skillet cookie recipe promises to bring people together in the sweetest way possible. Its simplicity, combined with the crowd-pleasing charm, makes it a must-try for dessert enthusiasts and those looking to make something special with minimal effort.
<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I use a different type of chocolate chip?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, feel free to use dark, milk, white, or even caramel chips for a unique flavor profile.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Is it necessary to cool the skillet cookie before serving?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Allow it to cool slightly to set the edges, but it's best enjoyed while still warm from the center.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I make this recipe gluten-free?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that has xanthan gum for the best texture.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>