We’ve got a treat that’ll make your kitchen smell like heaven – our skillet sugar cookie recipe! It’s a fun twist on the classic favorite, baking up a soft, shareable dessert in just one pan. Perfect for impromptu gatherings or cozy nights in, this easy method delivers that irresistible gooey center we all love.
What sets our version apart is its simplicity and wow factor. You’ll whip up a batch using everyday ingredients, creating a dessert that’s as photogenic as it is delicious. Let’s dive into this foolproof recipe that’ll become your go-to for sweet moments.
Ingredients
For our skillet sugar cookie recipe, we’re gathering simple, everyday ingredients that come together effortlessly in one pan to create a soft, gooey treat perfect for casual gatherings. We’ve organized this list in the order ingredients are typically used, with prep notes for precision.
- Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), softened to room temperature – This forms the creamy base of our dough, ensuring a tender texture.
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup – We blend this with butter for that signature sweetness and crisp edges.
- Brown sugar: ½ cup, packed – Adds a rich, caramel-like depth that enhances the gooey center of our skillet sugar cookie.
- Eggs: 2 large, at room temperature – These bind the ingredients and contribute to the cookie’s chewy consistency.
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons – Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor that elevates the overall taste.
- All-purpose flour: 2 ½ cups, sifted – Provides structure; sifting ensures no lumps for a smooth batter.
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon – Helps our cookie rise slightly for the ideal soft bake.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors without overpowering.
- Optional mix-ins: 1 cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts – Stir these in last for added texture and visual appeal in our skillet sugar cookie.
Tools and Equipment
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients for the perfect skillet sugar cookie, we turn our attention to the essential tools that make preparation straightforward and fun. In our experience, having the right equipment ensures even baking and effortless mixing, helping us achieve that irresistible gooey center and golden edges every time.
We recommend starting with a 10-inch cast iron skillet as the star of the show—its even heat distribution is key for a crisp exterior and soft interior. Here’s a detailed list of the tools we’ll need, organized by their role in the recipe:
- Skillet: A 10-inch oven-safe cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet is ideal; it retains heat well and allows for that signature one-pan bake, minimizing cleanup.
- Mixing Bowls: At least one large mixing bowl for combining wet and dry ingredients; we prefer glass or stainless steel for easy scraping and visibility.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of standard measuring cups (for dry ingredients like flour) and measuring spoons (for precise amounts of sugar and extracts) to guarantee accuracy in our dough.
- Whisk or Electric Mixer: A sturdy whisk or handheld electric mixer for blending butter and sugars smoothly; this tool helps incorporate air for a lighter texture.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: A heat-resistant silicone spatula for folding in mix-ins and transferring batter; it’s gentle on the dough and perfect for scraping bowls clean.
- Oven and Oven Mitts: A standard preheated oven set to 350°F (we’ll cover this in the next section), paired with oven mitts for safe handling of the hot skillet.
- Cooling Rack (Optional): A wire cooling rack to let the cookie set properly after baking, ensuring it doesn’t get soggy from trapped steam.
By using these tools, we streamline the process and enhance the overall experience of creating our skillet sugar cookie masterpiece.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and tools, we can easily prepare this irresistible skillet sugar cookie with simple, step-by-step guidance for a soft, golden treat that’s perfect for sharing.
Prep
To start, we focus on mixing our ingredients to create a smooth, flavorful batter that forms the heart of our skillet sugar cookie. Begin by placing 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of packed brown sugar in a large mixing bowl. Using a whisk or electric mixer, we cream these together for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and has a creamy texture that hints at the cookie’s rich sweetness.
Next, we add 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the bowl, beating them in one at a time for even incorporation. This step ensures a moist, tender crumb—watch as the batter transforms into a glossy blend with a fragrant aroma of vanilla that will make your kitchen smell inviting.
In a separate bowl, we whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring with a spatula until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cookie chewy and not tough. If desired, fold in optional mix-ins like 1 cup of chocolate chips or ½ cup of chopped nuts for added crunch and flavor bursts that elevate the texture.
Bake
With our batter ready, we transition to baking for that perfect golden edge and gooey center. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet with a bit of butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy release and even heat distribution.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared skillet, using a spatula to smooth the top for uniform baking. We slide it into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs—this signals a soft, chewy interior with a delightful contrast of crisp edges that make our skillet sugar cookie so satisfying.
Cool and Serve
After baking, we let the skillet cool on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes directly in the pan to allow the cookie to set without becoming soggy, preserving its warm, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Once slightly cooled, slice it into wedges for serving—enjoy the irresistible aroma and gooey center that pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel for an extra indulgent touch.
Make-Ahead Instructions
We understand that life gets busy, so our skillet sugar cookie recipe is designed for seamless make-ahead preparation. This approach lets you enjoy fresh-baked goodness without last-minute rush, maintaining the cookie’s signature soft, gooey center and irresistible aroma.
Preparing the Dough Ahead
To get a head start, we recommend mixing the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Begin by following the initial steps in our preparation instructions—creaming the butter and sugars, adding eggs and vanilla, then incorporating the dry ingredients until a smooth batter forms. Once ready, transfer the dough to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate it immediately to preserve its texture and flavor, preventing any sogginess that could occur at room temperature.
Storing Unbaked Dough
For optimal results, store the unbaked dough in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. If you need more time, you can freeze it for up to 3 months—simply portion it into a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough thaw in the fridge overnight. This method ensures the dough retains its chewy consistency, making it easy to press into your 10-inch cast iron skillet and bake as directed.
Baking and Storing the Cookie
If you prefer to bake the entire cookie ahead, prepare and bake it fully according to our instructions until the edges turn golden. Allow it to cool completely on a rack, then slice it into wedges for storage. Store the baked cookie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days to keep it moist and flavorful. For longer storage, freeze the cooled cookie for up to 3 months—wrap individual wedges in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator (unbaked dough) | Up to 24 hours | Thaw in fridge before using to avoid uneven baking. |
| Freezer (unbaked dough) | Up to 3 months | Let thaw overnight for that perfect skillet sugar cookie texture. |
| Room Temperature (baked) | Up to 2 days | Cover loosely to maintain the gooey center. |
| Refrigerator (baked) | Up to 5 days | Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to refresh the warm, buttery aroma. |
| Freezer (baked) | Up to 3 months | Thaw at room temperature and reheat for a just-baked feel. |
When reheating a baked cookie, we suggest warming it in a preheated 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes. This revives the crispy edges and soft interior, enhancing the sensory experience with its sweet, vanilla-kissed scent—ideal for serving with ice cream at your next gathering.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored our skillet sugar cookie recipe with us. It’s more than just a treat—it’s a simple way to create memorable moments that bring people together.
By keeping things straightforward and delicious, we’ve shown how this dessert fits seamlessly into your routine. Give it a try and make it your go-to for sweet, satisfying indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a skillet sugar cookie?
A skillet sugar cookie is a simple twist on the classic dessert, baked in one pan for a soft, gooey center and golden edges. It’s easy to prepare with everyday ingredients, perfect for casual gatherings or cozy evenings, and can be enhanced with mix-ins like chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You’ll need softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Optional add-ins include chocolate chips or chopped nuts. These ingredients combine to create a tender, chewy cookie with rich flavor, using about 10 items typically found in your kitchen.
What tools are required to make skillet sugar cookies?
Essential tools include a 10-inch cast iron skillet for even baking, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk or electric mixer, a spatula or wooden spoon, and an oven. Optional cooling racks help with post-baking. These items make preparation straightforward and ensure great results.
How do I prepare a skillet sugar cookie?
Start by creaming butter and sugars, then add eggs and vanilla. Mix dry ingredients separately and combine with the wet mixture to form batter. Grease a skillet, pour in the batter, and bake at the preheated oven temperature until edges are golden and center is soft. Cool before slicing into wedges.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the dough up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator, or freeze it for up to 3 months. This keeps the chewy texture intact. When ready, let it thaw if frozen, then bake as directed for fresh results.
How should I store the baked skillet sugar cookie?
Store the baked cookie at room temperature for up to 2 days, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore its soft texture and aroma, making it ideal for later enjoyment.