Caramel Skillet Cookie

The Caramel Skillet Cookie is a dessert sensation that combines the perfect balance of gooey caramel, rich cookie dough, and a warm, crispy edge that will have you coming back for more. This decadent treat is easy to whip up and guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth craving with its irresistible texture and flavor. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert or a comforting snack, the Caramel Skillet Cookie is a must-try recipe that brings a little magic to every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unbeatable Gooeyness: The melted caramel melds with the soft cookie dough to create an irresistible gooey center that’s pure bliss.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe comes together quickly for instant gratification.
• Perfect for Sharing: Made in one skillet, it’s ideal for serving up warm, indulgent portions straight from the oven.
• Customizable Flavors: You can tweak add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips to suit every taste preference.
• Comfort Food Classic: This warm, gooey cookie delivers all the nostalgic feels of a homemade treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for the Caramel Skillet Cookie are simple but carefully selected to deliver that amazing combo of chewy, crispy, and sweet. Each element plays a role in building the perfect flavor and texture.

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb when mixed properly.
• Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a rich, caramel-like depth to the dough.
• Granulated Sugar: Balances sweetness and contributes to that crispy cookie edge.
• Unsalted Butter: Brings richness and helps achieve a golden brown exterior.
• Egg: Acts as a binder for the cookie dough and adds moisture.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cookie rise and creates lightness.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
• Salt: Cuts through sweetness and elevates all the other flavors.
• Caramel Chunks or Sauce: The star of the show, adding luscious, sticky pockets of flavor throughout.
• Chocolate Chips (Optional): For extra richness and melty bursts of chocolate throughout the cookie.

Variations for Caramel Skillet Cookie

One of the best things about this Caramel Skillet Cookie recipe is how effortlessly it can be personalized. Whether you want to accommodate dietary needs or just experiment with flavors, it’s an easy base to build on.

• Nutty Delight: Throw in chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch and a toasty flavor contrast.
• Salted Caramel: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before baking to amplify the sweet and salty sensation.
• Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Use a blend of dark and milk chocolate chips for intense chocolatey goodness.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend and keep the same technique for allergy-friendly deliciousness.
• Vegan Adaptation: Replace butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs to make it plant-based while still gooey.

How to Make Caramel Skillet Cookie

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by creaming the softened unsalted butter with both sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract for richness and flavor. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined to avoid overmixing and keep the dough tender.

Step 2: Incorporate the Caramel

Gently fold in caramel chunks or swirl caramel sauce into the dough to ensure gooey pockets throughout the cookie. If you want extra texture, add chocolate chips or nuts at this stage.

Step 3: Transfer to Skillet

Generously grease a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan, then evenly spread the cookie dough into it. Press it down lightly to ensure even thickness and prepare for baking.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the skillet cookie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown while the center remains soft and gooey. Keep a close eye to avoid overbaking.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the skillet cookie to cool slightly in the pan so it firms up but stays warm and melty inside. Serve directly from the skillet with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce for maximum indulgence.

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Skillet Cookie

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures even mixing and a smooth dough texture.
• Don’t Overbake: For that perfect gooey center, pull the cookie from the oven as soon as the edges are golden and the center looks set but soft.
• Caramel Placement: Nestle chunks of caramel throughout the dough rather than just mixing — this creates melty pockets every bite.
• Skillet Size Matters: Use a 10-inch cast iron for ideal thickness and even cooking.
• Use Parchment Paper for Easier Cleanup: If not greasing your skillet directly, lining it helps with serving and cleaning.

How to Serve Caramel Skillet Cookie

Garnishes

Top your Caramel Skillet Cookie with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, a drizzle of warm caramel sauce, or a handful of toasted nuts to enhance both flavor and presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair this warm dessert with classic vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even fresh berries to add contrast and balance the sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the cookie directly from the warm skillet for an indulgent rustic look, or portion into individual ramekins for elegant single servings perfect for parties or date nights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Caramel Skillet Cookie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to preserve freshness and gooeyness as much as possible.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover cookie dough wrapped tightly or in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking fresh cookies.

Reheating

Warm leftover cookie slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven to revive that fresh-from-the-oven softness and gooey caramel texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of caramel chunks?

Absolutely! You can swirl in store-bought caramel sauce into the dough for a quick alternative, just be mindful not to add too much to avoid overly runny dough.

What type of skillet is best for this recipe?

A 10-inch cast iron skillet works best because it heats evenly and gives the cookie a crispy edge with a soft center.

How can I make the cookie less sweet?

Try reducing the amount of brown sugar slightly or add a pinch more salt to balance the sweetness and deepen the flavor.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that is suitable for baking as a one-for-one substitute for regular flour.

Can I add other mix-ins besides chocolate chips or nuts?

Definitely! Dried fruit, shredded coconut, or even toffee bits can add unique texture and flavor variations to your Caramel Skillet Cookie.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dessert that’s warm, rich, and loaded with gooey caramel goodness, the Caramel Skillet Cookie is your new best friend. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and always hits the spot. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and bring this delicious treat into your kitchen—you won’t regret it!

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