When it’s pizza night, everyone eagerly anticipates the savory, cheesy delight of a freshly baked pizza. But what about dessert? The perfect conclusion to such a meal is something equally communal and indulgent. Enter the M&M Skillet Cookie – a dessert that promises to be as fun and satisfying as your main course.
This dessert isn’t just a sweet treat; it’s an experience. Baking a giant cookie in a skillet transforms the ordinary into something extraordinary. It’s a playful twist on classic dessert, marrying the nostalgia of homemade cookies with the novelty of a skillet-baked creation.
The inclusion of colorful M&M candies not only adds a burst of chocolatey goodness but also a splash of color, making this dessert as visually appealing as it is delicious. The process of making the M&M Skillet Cookie is simple and straightforward, making it an ideal baking project for families, especially with kids who love to add their personal touch with their favorite candy mix-ins.
In essence, this recipe is about bringing joy and sweetness to the table, perfectly complementing the communal joy of pizza night. It’s about gathering around the table once more, this time slicing into a warm, gooey cookie, creating memories over melted chocolate and smiles. So, let’s delve into this delightful recipe and make your next pizza night a little sweeter!
Why We Love This Recipe
The M&M Skillet Cookie is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of simple pleasures and shared moments. Here are some of the reasons why this recipe is a beloved addition to any pizza night:
- Comforting and Familiar: There’s something universally comforting about a warm, freshly baked cookie. The familiar flavors of butter, sugar, and chocolate come together to create a taste that feels like home.
- Fun and Festive: The colorful M&Ms don’t just add flavor; they make this dessert visually appealing and fun. It’s a festive addition that brightens the table and brings a smile to everyone’s face.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions and common pantry ingredients, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels. It’s perfect for a spontaneous dessert decision on pizza night.
- Perfect for Sharing: Just like pizza, this skillet cookie is made for sharing. It brings people together, inviting everyone to dig in and enjoy a slice of sweet, chocolatey goodness.
- Versatile: This recipe is easily customizable. You can switch out M&Ms for other candies, nuts, or even mix in different types of chocolate chips, making it a versatile dessert that can cater to various tastes.
- Skillet Magic: Baking in a skillet not only makes for an impressive presentation but also contributes to the cookie’s texture – crispy on the edges, soft and gooey in the middle.
- A Delightful Contrast: After enjoying savory pizza, the sweet and chocolatey flavors of this skillet cookie offer a delightful contrast, rounding off the meal perfectly.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love adding their touch by sprinkling in the M&Ms, making it a fun family activity that gets everyone involved in the kitchen.
In essence, the M&M Skillet Cookie encapsulates the joy of shared experiences. It’s a simple yet special dessert that complements the communal spirit of pizza night, making it a memorable and delicious tradition.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup M&M candies, divided
- 1/3 cup milk chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch cast-iron skillet with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Combine Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, blend the melted butter with both the brown and granulated sugars.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gently stir in the dry ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookie tender.
- Fold in M&Ms: Add ¾ cup of the M&M candies into the dough, folding them in evenly.
- Prepare the Skillet: Press the cookie dough evenly into your prepared skillet.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are a light golden brown and the top is set.
- Cool and Decorate: Let the cookie cool in the skillet for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, melt the chocolate chips and spread the melted chocolate over the cookie. Press the remaining M&Ms into the chocolate topping.
- Let it Set: Wait until the cookie is completely cooled and the chocolate has set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Skillet Size: This recipe is tailored for an 8-inch cast-iron skillet. If using a different size, adjust the baking time accordingly. A larger skillet will require less baking time, while a smaller one will need more.
- Parchment Paper Tip: Lining the skillet with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also allows for easy removal of the cookie. Leave some overhang for effortless lifting.
- M&M Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of M&M candies, such as peanut, peanut butter, or even seasonal varieties for a festive twist.
- Chocolate Chips: Milk chocolate chips are recommended for a classic taste, but you can also try dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra indulgent treat, serve the cookie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
- Texture Preferences: If you prefer a gooey cookie, bake for a shorter time. For a crisper cookie, leave it in the oven a bit longer.
- Leftovers Storage: Store any leftover cookie in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Dough Consistency: The cookie dough should be thick and moldable. If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of milk; if too wet, add a bit more flour.
- Nut Allergies: If allergies are a concern, ensure to use nut-free M&Ms and check all your ingredients.
- Dietary Adjustments: For those with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free flour and dairy-free chocolate chips.
By keeping these notes in mind, you can tailor the M&M Skillet Cookie to suit your tastes and needs, ensuring a delightful dessert experience on your pizza night.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of candy instead of M&Ms? A: Absolutely! Feel free to substitute M&Ms with your favorite candy. Chopped chocolate bars, Reese’s Pieces, or even chopped nuts can add a unique twist to your skillet cookie.
Q: Do I need to use a cast-iron skillet? A: While a cast-iron skillet is ideal for even heating and a rustic presentation, you can use any oven-safe skillet or baking pan. Just be mindful of the size and adjust baking times accordingly.
Q: How can I tell when the skillet cookie is done? A: The cookie is done when the edges are lightly golden brown, and the center is set but still slightly soft. It will continue to cook and firm up as it cools in the skillet.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. The cookie should stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I prepare the dough in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before pressing it into the skillet and baking.
Q: Is it possible to make this cookie vegan? A: To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use a vegan egg replacement, and ensure your sugars and chocolate chips are vegan-friendly.
Q: Can I double this recipe? A: Yes, you can double the recipe, but you’ll need to use a larger skillet or bake it in two batches. Remember to adjust the baking time as a larger cookie might take longer to bake.
Q: How do I serve the skillet cookie? A: The skillet cookie is best served warm. You can cut it into slices like a pizza or scoop it out. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Q: Can I bake this cookie in a regular oven? A: Yes, this recipe is designed for a regular oven. Just preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) as indicated in the instructions.
Conclusion
The M&M Skillet Cookie is a fun, easy, and delicious way to add a sweet finale to your pizza night. Its crowd-pleasing appeal and customizable nature make it a dessert that everyone can enjoy. Give it a try and watch it become a new pizza night tradition!