Calling all dessert lovers! Are you ready for a sweet adventure? This Caramel Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie is the ultimate treat for any occasion. Picture this gooey, warm cookie served right from the skillet, just waiting for a scoop of ice cream. In this post, I’ll guide you through every step, from choosing the best ingredients to perfecting the texture. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a delicious dessert they won’t forget!
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
To make the Caramel Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie, you will need:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup caramel bits (or soft caramel candies, chopped)
– Sea salt for sprinkling
Ingredient Substitutions
If you find yourself missing an ingredient, don’t worry! Here are some swaps:
– Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
– You can replace brown sugar with white sugar and a bit of molasses.
– For eggs, try using flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg).
– Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour if needed.
Best Brands for Ingredients
Not all brands are created equal. Here are my top picks:
– For butter, I recommend Land O’Lakes for its rich flavor.
– Use Domino for brown sugar; it’s always reliable.
– Ghirardelli is my go-to for semi-sweet chocolate chips.
– For caramel bits, I love Werther’s Original; they melt beautifully.
These ingredients come together to create a delicious, gooey cookie that will impress anyone!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
First, gather your ingredients. You will need:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup caramel bits (or soft caramel candies, chopped)
– Sea salt for sprinkling
Next, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with brown and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is key for a soft cookie.
Now, add the eggs one by one. Mix well after each egg. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined. In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips and caramel bits. Make sure they are evenly spread in the dough.
Baking Instructions
Transfer the cookie dough into a well-greased or parchment-lined cast-iron skillet. Spread it evenly using a spatula. Place it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for golden edges and a soft center. It’s okay if the center feels a bit underbaked.
Cooling and Serving Tips
Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven. Let it cool for about 10 minutes in the skillet. This helps the cookie set up a bit more. Before serving, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top. This adds a nice flavor contrast.
For a special treat, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy every bite of this caramel chocolate chip skillet cookie!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Cookie Texture
To get that perfect cookie texture, you must cream the butter and sugars well. This makes a light and fluffy dough. Always use softened butter, not melted. It helps keep the cookie thick. Do not overmix the dough once you add the flour. Mix until just combined to keep it soft.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is baking at the wrong temperature. Make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F. Another mistake is not measuring your ingredients correctly. Use measuring cups and spoons. Too much flour can make the cookie dry. Also, don’t skip the sea salt sprinkle on top. It adds a nice flavor boost.
Best Tools to Use
A cast-iron skillet is the best tool for this recipe. It gives even heat and a great crust. Use a large mixing bowl for easy mixing. A rubber spatula is perfect for folding in the chocolate chips and caramel bits. Lastly, an oven thermometer can help you check if your oven is accurate.
Variations
Add-ins and Flavor Variations
You can make this skillet cookie your own. Try adding nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a crunch. You can mix in dried fruit, like cranberries or cherries, for a tangy twist. Swap out semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate or white chocolate. You can even add a splash of espresso powder for a coffee flavor.
Dietary Modifications (e.g., gluten-free, vegan)
To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. For a vegan option, replace the butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. You can mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water to make one flax egg. Check the chocolate chips; choose dairy-free ones for a fully vegan dish.
Using Different Skillet Sizes
The size of your skillet will change the baking time. If you use a smaller skillet, the cookie will be thicker. It might need a little more time in the oven. A larger skillet will spread the dough thinner, so check it a bit sooner. Always watch for golden edges and a soft center to get the best cookie.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your caramel chocolate chip skillet cookie fresh, let it cool first. Once cooled, cover it with plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, move it to the fridge. It can last up to a week there.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to freeze your skillet cookie, let it cool completely. Cut it into slices for easy serving. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out the air before sealing. You can freeze it for up to three months. Just remember to label the bag with the date.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, you can use your oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookie in the oven for about 10 minutes. This warms it up and keeps it soft. If using a microwave, warm a slice for 15 to 20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat it, as it can get tough. Enjoy your warm, gooey slice!
FAQs
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Yes, you can use different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate or milk chocolate work well. You can also mix chocolate types for a fun twist. Just remember, the taste will change a bit. Dark chocolate adds a rich flavor, while milk chocolate is sweeter.
How do I know when the cookie is done?
To check if the cookie is done, look at the edges. They should be golden brown. The center may still look soft but should not be wet. You can also use a toothpick. If it comes out mostly clean, your cookie is ready. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Prepare the dough and place it in the skillet. Cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes. Then, bake as normal. This makes it easy for last-minute treats!
You learned about key ingredients, their best brands, and fun swaps. We explored step-by-step how to bake and serve perfect cookies. I shared tips on texture, tools, and common mistakes. You also found delicious variations and how to store your treats.
Remember, great cookies aren’t just about the recipe. They’re about using quality ingredients and enjoying the process. With these steps, you can create perfect cookies every time. Happy baking!
