Caramel Skillet Cookie

If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a dessert that offers the perfect balance of gooey caramel, crispy edges, and a chewy center, this Caramel Skillet Cookie is your new best friend. This recipe brings together simple ingredients that create an incredibly delicious treat baked right in a cast-iron skillet. Whether you want a cozy dessert for family or a show-stopping dish for guests, this Caramel Skillet Cookie hits all the right notes with its buttery crust and luscious caramel swirls.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delectably gooey texture: The caramel melts beautifully inside, giving each bite a soft, velvety richness.
• Perfect crispy edges: Baking in a skillet ensures golden, crisp edges that contrast with the chewy center.
• Simple ingredients: You don’t need fancy stuff—everything can be found in your pantry or local grocery store.
• Impressive presentation: Served straight from the skillet, this dessert looks rustic and inviting.
• Quick and easy preparation: This is a no-fuss recipe that packs big flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient plays a vital role to deliver the ultimate Caramel Skillet Cookie experience. From the rich brown sugar that adds deep flavor to the smooth butter that binds everything together, these basics create a magical dessert that’s both chewy and crisp.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure without weighing the cookie down.
• Baking soda: Helps give a light, chewy texture.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and that essential golden-brown crust.
• Brown sugar: Brings moisture and a deep caramel-like sweetness.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with crisp edges.
• Large eggs: Bind ingredients while providing tenderness.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle warmth.
• Soft caramel candies or caramel sauce: Creates luscious gooey pockets throughout the cookie.
• Chocolate chips (optional): Add a rich contrast and melty goodness.

Variations for Caramel Skillet Cookie

Ready to put your own twist on this Caramel Skillet Cookie? It’s super easy to customize based on what you love or what dietary needs you might have. Feel free to get creative or keep it classic!

• Nutty twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch.
• Chocolate overload: Use a mix of milk, dark, or white chocolate chips to intensify richness.
• Salted caramel: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top just before baking to highlight the caramel’s flavor.
• Gluten-free option: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Spiced version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a cozy, seasonal twist.

How to Make Caramel Skillet Cookie

Step 1: Prepare Your Skillet and Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 10-inch cast-iron skillet with butter or non-stick spray. This will ensure the cookie bakes evenly and releases easily. Have your ingredients measured and ready for smooth assembly.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix creates the foundation for your cookie’s texture, so make sure it’s thoroughly combined.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy and pale, about 3-4 minutes. This step is key for a tender and airy cookie with crispy edges.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. This adds moisture and binds the dough, creating a chewy texture when baked.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixes

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing on low speed just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a tough cookie, so stop as soon as no flour is visible.

Step 6: Add Caramel and Optional Mix-ins

Fold in chunks or soft caramel candies evenly throughout the dough. This is the magic that gives the cookie those irresistible gooey caramel pockets. If using chocolate chips or nuts, fold them in here as well.

Step 7: Bake in the Skillet

Spread the dough evenly in your greased skillet. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are golden and crisp but the center still looks slightly underbaked. This ensures a chewy, soft middle with perfectly crisp edges.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow your Caramel Skillet Cookie to cool for 10-15 minutes in the skillet before serving. This resting time helps the cookie set while keeping the caramel gooey and melty.

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Skillet Cookie

• Use room temperature butter: It creams better with sugars, leading to a lighter texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix dry ingredients gently to avoid a tough cookie.
• Watch your baking time: Pull the cookie out when edges are set and center is slightly soft for perfect chewiness.
• Use a quality cast-iron skillet: Even heat distribution helps achieve those signature crispy edges.
• Let it rest: Cooling allows the caramel to thicken just right for that gooey satisfaction.

How to Serve Caramel Skillet Cookie

Garnishes

For an extra pop, sprinkle flaky sea salt or a light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving to enhance both look and flavor.

Side Dishes

A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce pairs perfectly, creating a decadent dessert experience that’s sure to impress.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve directly from the skillet atop a trivet or wooden board. Add a few fresh berries or mint leaves for a fresh, colorful contrast. For parties, slice into wedges and plate individually for easy sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Caramel Skillet Cookie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To preserve texture, bring to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

Wrap the skillet or cookie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes or microwave briefly to restore some melt-in-your-mouth magic without losing crispness.

FAQs

Can I make this Caramel Skillet Cookie without a cast-iron skillet?

Yes! You can bake the cookie in any oven-safe skillet or even a round baking pan, but a cast-iron skillet produces the best crisp edges and even baking.

What type of caramel should I use?

Soft caramel candies that melt easily or a good-quality caramel sauce work best. Avoid hard caramels as they won’t melt well during baking.

How do I keep the cookie chewy?

Remove the cookie from the oven when the center is still slightly underbaked and allow it to cool in the skillet; this resting keeps the center soft and chewy.

Can I substitute ingredients for dietary restrictions?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour blends for gluten intolerance or dairy-free butter substitutes; just be aware the texture may vary slightly.

How long will this cookie stay fresh?

Best enjoyed within 3 days of baking for optimal texture and flavor, though it can be frozen to extend its shelf life.

Final Thoughts

This Caramel Skillet Cookie is a true crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with indulgence. The balance of gooey caramel, crispy edges, and soft, chewy center makes it an irresistible treat you’ll want to keep making again and again. So grab your skillet, gather these simple ingredients, and prepare to wow yourself and everyone you share it with!

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