Decadent Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie
Indulge in the warm, gooey goodness of this Decadent Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie, baked perfectly in a cast iron skillet. With its rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter combined with melty semi-sweet chocolate chips, this dessert is an irresistible treat for any occasion. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this crispy-on-the-edges and soft-in-the-center cookie brings comfort in every bite. Serve it warm straight from the oven, topped with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for that extra touch of gourmet flair.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
unsalted butter
6 tablespoons (divided (1/4 cup and 2 tablespoons))
dark brown sugar
1/3 cup
granulated sugar
1/3 cup
kosher salt
3/4 teaspoon
vanilla extract
1 1/2 teaspoons
large egg
1
baking soda
1/4 teaspoon
all-purpose flour
1 cup
flaky sea salt
to taste
semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Decadent Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie?
It is a rich, oversized cookie baked in a cast iron skillet, featuring nutty browned butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips for a gooey, gourmet dessert.
How does brown butter enhance the flavor?
Browning the butter adds a deep, toasted, and nutty profile that creates a more complex flavor compared to regular melted butter.
Can I bake this in something other than a cast iron skillet?
Yes, you can use a cake pan or an oven-safe frying pan, though a cast iron skillet provides the best crispy edges.
Why is dark brown sugar used in this recipe?
Dark brown sugar contains more molasses than light brown sugar, which adds moisture and a rich caramel-like sweetness to the cookie.
What type of chocolate chips are best?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are recommended to balance the sweetness of the dough, but you can also use dark chocolate chunks.
Why should I add flaky sea salt on top?
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt provides a gourmet flair and cuts through the sweetness, enhancing the overall chocolate flavor.
How do I get the perfect crispy edges?
Baking in a preheated cast iron skillet ensures the edges caramelize and become crispy while the center stays soft.
Is the center of the cookie supposed to be soft?
Yes, the ideal skillet cookie is soft and gooey in the center, providing a contrast to the crunchy outer ring.
Can I make the cookie dough in advance?
You can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before pressing it into the skillet and baking.
What is the best way to serve a skillet cookie?
It is best served warm straight from the oven, often topped with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans pair beautifully with the nutty flavor of the brown butter.
How do I make this cookie gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for similar results.
How should I store leftover skillet cookie?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can this cookie be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze slices of the baked cookie in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat a slice of the cookie?
Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven for 5 minutes until warm and melty.
What size skillet should I use?
A 9-inch or 10-inch cast iron skillet works best for this quantity of dough to ensure even baking.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but you should reduce the added kosher salt by half to avoid an overly salty cookie.
Why does the recipe use both granulated and brown sugar?
Granulated sugar helps with the crisp edges, while brown sugar provides the soft, chewy texture and deep flavor.
Can I use an egg replacement?
A flax egg or a commercial egg replacer can work, though the texture may be slightly less chewy.
Do I need to grease the skillet?
Cast iron is generally non-stick when seasoned, but a light coating of butter can help ensure the cookie releases easily.
How do I know when the cookie is done?
The edges should be golden brown and set, while the center should still look slightly underbaked and soft.
Can I make individual cookies from this dough?
Yes, you can scoop the dough into balls and bake them on a cookie sheet, though baking times will be shorter.
What is the purpose of kosher salt in the dough?
Kosher salt enhances the flavors of the butter and chocolate without being as sharp as table salt.
Can I use vanilla bean paste instead of extract?
Yes, vanilla bean paste can be used in a 1:1 ratio for a more intense vanilla flavor and beautiful flecks.
What does the baking soda do?
Baking soda acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookie rise slightly and aiding in the browning process.
Can I use milk chocolate chips?
You can, but semi-sweet is preferred to prevent the dessert from becoming overly sweet when combined with the sugars.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is a very straightforward recipe that doesn't require complex decorating skills or multiple baking sheets.
Can I add extra toppings like caramel?
Drizzling caramel or chocolate syrup over the finished cookie is a great way to add even more decadence.
What makes this 'gourmet'?
The use of brown butter and flaky sea salt elevates a standard chocolate chip cookie into a sophisticated, gourmet treat.
Is this cookie good for sharing?
Absolutely, the skillet presentation is designed for sharing, making it perfect for family gatherings or parties.