Fall is the perfect time for a cozy, warm dessert, and this Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie fits the bill. Imagine soft, gooey chocolate mingling with spiced pumpkin goodness, all baked to perfection in one skillet. It’s simple to make and perfect for sharing. Whether you whip it up for a family gathering or enjoy it solo, this treat will satisfy your sweet tooth. Let me show you how to make this delightful cookie!
Ingredients
To make a delightful pumpkin chocolate chip skillet cookie, gather these simple ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Each ingredient plays a key role in building flavor and texture. The pumpkin puree adds moisture and a warm flavor. Brown sugar gives a rich depth, while granulated sugar adds sweetness. Unsalted butter brings richness, and the egg acts as a binder.
Baking soda and baking powder help the cookie rise. The spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger—infuse the cookie with cozy fall flavors. Salt balances out the sweetness. Finally, the chocolate chips add delightful bursts of chocolate goodness.
You can also add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture. These ingredients make this skillet cookie a perfect treat for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Ingredients
– Preheat Oven and Prepare Skillet: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or an oven-safe frying pan. This helps the cookie not stick.
– Creaming the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, mix 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer. Beat until the mix is light and fluffy.
– Combining Wet Ingredients: Next, add 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
– Whisking Together Dry Items: In another bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Make sure they are evenly mixed.
– Combining Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir gently until just combined. Do not over-mix to keep the cookie soft.
Baking the Cookie
– Folding in Chocolate Chips and Nuts: Now fold in 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips. If you like, add 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
– Pouring Batter into Skillet: Pour the batter into your prepared skillet. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
– Baking Time and Temperature: Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes. The edges should be golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Serve this warm for the best taste!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring the Perfect Texture
Avoiding Over-Mixing
Mixing the batter too much can ruin the texture. When adding dry ingredients, mix until just combined. This keeps your cookie soft and chewy. I usually stop mixing as soon as I no longer see dry flour.
Checking for Doneness
To check if your cookie is done, look for golden edges. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready. If not, bake for a few more minutes. You want a slight softness in the center.
Flavor Enhancements
Suggested Toppings
For a special treat, top your skillet cookie with a scoop of ice cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce adds sweetness too. You can also sprinkle some cinnamon for extra flavor. These toppings make the cookie even more delightful.
Spice Adjustments for Personal Preference
Feel free to adjust the spices to fit your taste. If you love cinnamon, add a bit more. If ginger is your favorite, increase that too. Play around with the spices to make it your own.
Serving Suggestions
Best Ways to Serve Warm
Serve your skillet cookie warm right from the oven. This is when it tastes best. The chocolate chips will be melty, and the cookie will be soft. Cut it into wedges for easy sharing.
Accompaniments to Enhance Flavor
Pair your cookie with a glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee. The flavors mix well. You can also serve it with whipped cream for a dessert that feels fancy. Enjoy it with friends for a perfect treat!
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
Using Different Types of Chocolate
You can change up the flavor by using different types of chocolate. Try dark chocolate chips for a rich taste. Milk chocolate chips give a sweeter flavor. You can even mix them together for a fun twist.
Substituting Nut Butter
If you want a nutty flavor, use nut butter instead of butter. Almond or peanut butter works well. Just replace the butter with the same amount of nut butter. This adds a creamy texture and extra flavor to your skillet cookie.
Dietary Modifications
Gluten-Free Options
To make this cookie gluten-free, swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Make sure the blend has a good mix of starches and flours. Check the package to ensure it can be used in baking.
Vegan Adaptations
You can easily make this recipe vegan. Replace the egg with a flax egg. To do this, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. Use a plant-based butter to keep it dairy-free.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your pumpkin chocolate chip skillet cookie fresh, let it cool first. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, freezing is a great option.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze the cookie, slice it into pieces. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. Your cookie can stay good for up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Tips
The best way to reheat your skillet cookie is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookie on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. This method keeps the cookie warm and soft.
Suggested Serving Temperature
Serve the cookie warm for the best taste. You can also enjoy it at room temperature. If you want it extra special, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. It melts beautifully and adds a creamy touch.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of puree?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. First, cook and mash the pumpkin. Make sure to drain excess water. This will help keep the cookie from being too wet. Fresh pumpkin adds a nice flavor and texture.
How long does the skillet cookie last?
The skillet cookie lasts about three to four days. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it. Just be sure to warm it up before serving.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time. Just cover it and keep it in the fridge for up to one day. When ready, pour it into the skillet and bake. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh cookies later.
What is the best way to serve leftovers?
To serve leftovers, warm them in the oven or microwave. A quick heat will bring back the gooeyness. You can add a scoop of ice cream on top for extra fun. Drizzle some caramel sauce, and enjoy!
– Additional Common Questions Related to the Recipe
– Can I use dark chocolate chips? Yes, dark chocolate chips work well. They add a rich flavor.
– What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet? You can use any oven-safe pan. Just make sure to adjust the baking time.
– How can I make this cookie more chewy? Add a little more brown sugar for added moisture. This will help create a chewy texture.
You learned about making a delicious skillet cookie using simple ingredients. We covered baking steps, tips for texture, and tasty variations. You can even adapt the recipe for special diets. Remember to store leftovers properly for freshness. This treat is perfect for sharing or enjoying alone. Get creative with toppings or mix-ins to make it your own. With these tips, your skillet cookie will be a hit every time! Enjoy your baking journey and the tasty results.
