Caramel Skillet Cookie

If you’re someone who adores warm, gooey desserts with that perfect mix of crispy edges and a meltingly soft center, then the Caramel Skillet Cookie is about to become your new obsession. This dessert brings an incredible balance of rich caramel sweetness and buttery cookie goodness, all baked in one skillet to create a treat that’s irresistibly shareable and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re serving it as an impromptu snack or a show-stopping finale to dinner, the Caramel Skillet Cookie delights every palate with its luscious texture and homemade charm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Dessert: A warm, freshly baked Caramel Skillet Cookie feels like a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for any occasion.
• Gooey Center with Crispy Edges: The beautiful contrast between the sticky caramel inside and crunchy cookie edges keeps everyone coming back for more.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Made with everyday pantry staples, this recipe turns basic ingredients into a decadent delight.
• Perfect for Sharing: Baked in one skillet, it’s easy to serve directly from the pan, sparking smiles around the table.
• Customizable and Adaptable: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your favorite mix-ins or dietary needs without losing its signature charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The Caramel Skillet Cookie relies on simple, quality ingredients that come together to create an extraordinary experience. Each component plays a vital role – from the buttery base to the rich caramel that forms the luscious heart of this dessert.

• Butter: Adds rich flavor and helps create those irresistibly crispy edges.
• Brown Sugar: Brings a deep caramel flavor and keeps the cookie wonderfully moist.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structure, ensuring the cookie holds together with just the right chewiness.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cookie rise slightly, resulting in a tender crumb.
• Egg: Binds ingredients, adding richness and a soft texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
• Caramel Pieces or Sauce: The star ingredient that gives this skillet cookie its iconic gooey, indulgent center.
• Chocolate Chips (optional): For an extra layer of richness and a classic flavor combo with caramel.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and sharpens the flavors perfectly.

Variations for Caramel Skillet Cookie

One of the best parts about this Caramel Skillet Cookie is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether adjusting for dietary needs or playing with fun flavors, the recipe welcomes creativity.

• Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch contrasted with the gooey caramel.
• Chocolate Swirl: Mix in dark or milk chocolate chunks to amp up the decadence and pair beautifully with caramel.
• Salted Caramel: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top just before baking to elevate the sweet-salty contrast.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy this treat without compromising texture.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use coconut oil, flax eggs, and dairy-free caramel sauce for a plant-based twist.

How to Make Caramel Skillet Cookie

Step 1: Prepare Your Skillet and Ingredients

Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature and grease your skillet generously with butter or non-stick spray. This helps create the perfect crust and prevents sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for that tender, moist texture in your cookie.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients and Flavor

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract thoroughly, ensuring you get a smooth, homogeneous batter, which lays the foundation for consistent flavor and texture.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour, baking soda, and salt, folding them in gently until just combined to keep the dough tender and avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Add Caramel and Extras

Fold in caramel pieces or drizzle your favorite caramel sauce into the dough. If you’re using chocolate chips or nuts, mix those in now for extra indulgence and texture.

Step 6: Transfer and Bake

Press the dough evenly into your prepared skillet and bake until the edges turn golden brown but the center remains glossy and slightly soft to touch, usually about 18-22 minutes.

Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve

Let the cookie cool for 5-10 minutes to allow the caramel to settle while still warm and gooey. Serve directly from the skillet for that rustic, shareable charm.

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Skillet Cookie

• Use Room Temperature Butter: It creams better with sugar for a smoother dough.
• Don’t Overbake: Removing the cookie when the center is still soft ensures that gooey caramel texture everyone loves.
• Invest in a Quality Skillet: A heavy cast iron skillet promotes even baking and creates those signature crispy edges.
• Chill the Dough Optional: For thicker cookies, chill the dough 30 minutes before baking, but it’s delicious fresh too.
• Caramel Chips vs Sauce: Chips distribute caramel flavor more evenly, while sauce creates pockets of lava-like sweetness.

How to Serve Caramel Skillet Cookie

Garnishes

Sprinkle flaky sea salt or add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a simple yet elegant finish that enhances the caramel and cookie flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair the skillet cookie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce to elevate the richness and create a multi-sensory wow moment.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve straight in the skillet or portion on colorful dessert plates drizzled with caramel or chocolate. Add fresh berries or mint leaves for pops of color and freshness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Caramel Skillet Cookie tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain softness and flavor.

Freezing

Freeze the cookie in the skillet or cut into slices, individually wrapped in plastic wrap and foil, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-12 minutes, or microwave in short bursts until hot but not overcooked, to revive the gooey texture beautifully.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! Drizzling store-bought caramel sauce into the dough not only infuses intense caramel flavor but also creates irresistible gooey pockets throughout the cookie.

Is the Caramel Skillet Cookie gluten-free?

Traditional recipes use all-purpose flour, but you can swap in a gluten-free flour blend to make it safe for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing texture.

Can I make this dessert vegan?

Yes! Replace butter with coconut oil, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and select a dairy-free caramel sauce to enjoy a vegan-friendly Caramel Skillet Cookie.

How do I know when the cookie is done?

The edges will be golden and firm, but the center should still look slightly underbaked and glossy — this ensures the gooey caramel center remains perfect.

Can I add other mix-ins besides caramel and chocolate?

For sure! Nuts, toffee bits, or even dried fruit can add exciting new textures and flavors, making each batch uniquely delicious.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason the Caramel Skillet Cookie is a crowd favorite: it brings that perfect blend of textures, rich caramel sweetness, and warm, comforting vibes all in one skillet. Whipping up this dessert is not only straightforward but instantly rewarding, delivering smiles and happy taste buds every time. Next time you’re craving something special yet simple, give this recipe a try – your skillet will thank you!

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