Description
This Caramel Apple Skillet Cookie is a warm, comforting dessert combining soft, caramelized apples with a chewy, oat-studded cookie base baked right in a cast-iron skillet. Topped with a drizzle of rich caramel sauce and optionally served with vanilla ice cream, it offers a perfect balance of sweet, fruity, and buttery flavors ideal for any cozy occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramelized Apples
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Cookie Dough
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (optional)
Toppings
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare skillet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-inch cast-iron or oven-safe skillet to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the cookie.
- Caramelize the apples: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the peeled, diced apples, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir often and cook for 5-7 minutes until the apples become soft and caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening and seasoning in the cookie dough.
- Beat wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This aerates the butter to help create a tender cookie.
- Combine wet and dry: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined to avoid overdeveloping the gluten. Stir in the rolled oats and optional chocolate chips gently.
- Assemble cookie: Spread the prepared cookie dough evenly in the greased skillet. Spoon the caramelized apples evenly over the top of the dough, distributing them carefully to cover the surface.
- Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cookie is fully baked.
- Cool and finish: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the cookie cool for 5-10 minutes. Then drizzle the caramel sauce over the warm cookie to add extra richness and flavor.
- Serve: Serve warm, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. Enjoy your Caramel Apple Skillet Cookie fresh for the best texture and taste.
Notes
- For best results, use tart apples like Granny Smith or sweeter Honeycrisp to balance the sweetness.
- Make sure the butter for the dough is softened but not melted for proper texture.
- If you prefer, skip the chocolate chips or replace them with chopped nuts for added crunch.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving for a freshly baked taste.
