Chocolate Pecan Skillet Cookie

There is something almost magical about sliding a warm skillet out of the oven and watching chocolate still shimmer on the surface. This chocolate pecan skillet cookie is the kind of dessert that fills the kitchen with a buttery aroma and pulls everyone a little closer, spoons ready and patience thin. Trust me, you’re going to love this from the very first bite.

Why This Dessert Steals the Spotlight Every Time

This recipe is all about comfort and drama in the best way. One pan, rich flavors, and a texture that lands somewhere between a classic cookie and a soft brownie. It feels indulgent but familiar, the kind of dessert you make when you want smiles without a lot of fuss.

A Little Background and Sweet Trivia

Skillet cookies grew popular as home bakers looked for easier ways to bake crowd-sized treats without scooping dozens of cookies. Baking in a skillet keeps the center tender while the edges get irresistibly crisp. Add pecans, a Southern baking favorite, and you get a dessert that feels both nostalgic and exciting.

What Makes This Recipe So Reliable and Loved

This is the point where confidence kicks in, because this dessert truly delivers every single time.

Versatile: It works for weeknight desserts, celebrations, or casual get-togethers, and it fits right in.

Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry staples come together without anything fancy or hard to find.

Quick and Easy: One bowl, one skillet, and a short bake time keep things relaxed.

Customizable: You can adjust the chocolate or nuts easily without ruining the texture.

Crowd-Pleasing: Warm, gooey, and shareable, it never lasts long on the table.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the dough earlier and bake when needed.

Great for Leftovers: If there are any, they reheat beautifully and stay soft.

Pro-Level Tips for Perfect Results

Before we jump into baking, let me share a few insider tricks that make a real difference.

• Use room temperature butter so it creams smoothly with the sugar
• Lightly toast the pecans for deeper flavor
• Do not overbake, the center should look slightly underdone
• Let it rest a few minutes so it sets but stays gooey

Tools You Will Want Ready

Having the right tools nearby makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Cast Iron Skillet: Holds heat evenly and creates crisp edges.

Mixing Bowl: Large enough to mix everything comfortably.

Spatula: Helps scrape and spread the dough evenly.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: Keep flavors balanced and consistent.

Ingredients You Will Need For This Recipe

Everything works together here, each ingredient playing a small but important role in building flavor and texture.

1. Unsalted Butter: 1 cup, melted, adds richness and moisture.
2. Brown Sugar: 1 cup, packed, brings deep sweetness and chewiness.
3. Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup, balances the molasses notes.
4. Large Eggs: 2, room temperature, bind everything together.
5. Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons, enhances the chocolate flavor.
6. All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups, gives structure without heaviness.
7. Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon, helps the cookie rise slightly.
8. Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, sharpens the sweetness.
9. Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chunks: 1 1/2 cups, create melty pockets.
10. Chopped Pecans: 1 cup, add crunch and warmth.

Easy Ingredient Swaps If Needed

Sometimes you work with what you have, and that is perfectly fine.

Semi-Sweet Chocolate: Milk or dark chocolate both work well.
Pecans: Walnuts are a good alternative.
Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar can be used for a slightly different flavor.

Spotlight on Key Ingredients

Brown Sugar: This is what gives the cookie its soft, chewy center and deep caramel notes.

Pecans: They bring contrast, crunch, and a toasted aroma that balances the sweetness.

Let’s Get Baking Together

Now let’s dive into the fun part, and this is where everything comes together in the skillet.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Set the oven to 350°F and place a rack in the center.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix melted butter with both sugars until smooth, then add eggs and vanilla.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Lightly grease the cast iron skillet to prevent sticking.
4. Assemble the Dish: Stir flour, baking soda, and salt into the wet mixture, then fold in chocolate and pecans.
5. Cook to Perfection: Spread dough evenly in the skillet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes.
6. Finishing Touches: Remove when edges are set but the center is soft.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Let it cool slightly before digging in.

Texture and Flavor Worth Every Bite

The edges bake up golden and crisp while the center stays soft and almost molten. Chocolate melts into the dough, pecans add crunch, and the butter and sugar create a rich, caramel-like base. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite.

Helpful Tips and Tricks

A few small tweaks can make this dessert even better.

• Sprinkle a few extra chocolate chunks on top before baking
• Serve warm for the best texture
• Pair with vanilla ice cream for contrast

What to Avoid for Best Results

Even simple recipes have a few pitfalls to watch for.

• Overbaking, which dries out the center
• Skipping salt, which flattens the flavor
• Using a cold skillet, which affects baking time

Nutrition Facts to Keep in Mind

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 420

Note: These values are approximate.

Preparation Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the dough a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Leftovers store well at room temperature for one day or refrigerated for up to three days. Reheat gently to bring back that gooey center.

Serving Ideas That Shine

Serve straight from the skillet with spoons for sharing, or cut into wedges and plate with ice cream or whipped cream for a more polished dessert.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Crumble leftovers over yogurt, warm and sandwich between ice cream, or chop and fold into a milkshake for a fun twist.

Extra Tips for Ease and Flavor

Use high-quality chocolate for the best melt, and always taste your dough to adjust sweetness if needed.

Make It a Real Showstopper

Bring the skillet straight to the table while it’s still warm. That first crack through the top gets everyone’s attention.

Variations to Try Next Time

• Add a swirl of peanut butter before baking
• Use dark chocolate for a richer taste
• Sprinkle flaky salt on top after baking
• Mix in shredded coconut for texture

FAQ’s

1. Can I bake this without a cast iron skillet?

Yes, a heavy oven-safe pan or baking dish works.

2. How do I know when it’s done?

The edges should be set and the center slightly soft.

3. Can I freeze the baked cookie?

Yes, wrap tightly and freeze up to one month.

4. Can I reduce the sugar?

You can slightly reduce it, but texture may change.

5. Is this dessert very sweet?

It is rich but balanced by pecans and salt.

6. Can I use chocolate chips instead of chunks?

Yes, chips work just fine.

7. Should I toast the pecans first?

It is optional but highly recommended.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger skillet or two pans.

9. What pairs best with it?

Vanilla ice cream or cold milk.

10. Can kids help make this?

Absolutely, it’s simple and fun.

Conclusion

This chocolate pecan skillet cookie is cozy, rich, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of dessert that feels special without trying too hard, and once you make it, it tends to become a regular request. This one’s a total game-changer.

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