There’s a certain nostalgia that fills the air when the first bite of a Gooey S’mores Cookie Skillet touches your lips, reminiscent of summer nights spent by the campfire. Imagine the rich aroma of freshly baked cookies mingling with the sweetness of melted marshmallow crème and chocolate — it’s pure magic in a skillet! Perfectly crafted for sharing (or not!), this easy-to-make dessert is a delightful way to bring the cozy essence of childhood favorites into your contemporary kitchen. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or gearing up for a family gathering, this indulgent treat effortlessly satisfies cravings while inviting endless creativity with customizable toppings. Get ready to rediscover the joy of s’mores like never before!
Why is the Gooey S’mores Cookie Skillet a Must-Try?
Nostalgic Delight: This recipe perfectly captures the essence of childhood campfire memories, making every bite a warm, comforting experience.
Effortless Preparation: It comes together quickly in one skillet, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.
Endless Customization: Tailor toppings to your taste, from mini marshmallows to chocolate drizzles, ensuring it’s never the same twice!
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this dessert is sure to impress family and friends alike — perfect for any occasion.
Decadent Texture: Enjoy a delightful combination of crispy edges and a gooey center bursting with melted chocolate and marshmallow!
Versatile Serving: Pair it with ice cream or fresh fruit for an elevated dessert experience; the combinations are endless!
Gooey S’mores Cookie Skillet Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
• Unsalted Butter – Ensures moisture and richness; soften it for easy mixing.
• Brown Sugar – Adds depth of flavor; swap for coconut sugar for a unique twist.
• Granulated Sugar – Balances sweetness; reduce quantity for a less sugary treat.
• Large Egg – Binds ingredients together; can be substituted with a flax egg for a vegan option.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates flavor; choose pure extract for the best taste.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; gluten-free flour works well as a substitute.
• Crushed Graham Crackers – Infuses that signature S’mores flavor; use store-bought or make your own.
• Baking Soda – Ensures proper rise; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
• Salt – Enhances sweetness; a key element for flavor balance.
For the Gooey Center
• Chocolate Chips – Delivers pockets of sweetness; semi-sweet or dark options are highly recommended, or try dairy-free versions.
• Marshmallow Crème (Fluff) – Creates that iconic gooey center; homemade options can be a fun alternative.
Optional Toppings
• Extra Chocolate Chips – A chocolate lover’s dream for added richness.
• Mini Marshmallows – Adds to the s’mores vibe; toast some beforehand for an extra twist.
• Crushed Graham Crackers – Perfect for a crunchy topping to enhance texture.
With these simple and customizable ingredients, your Gooey S’mores Cookie Skillet is just a heartfelt preparation away from becoming the star of your next cozy gathering!
How to Make Gooey S’mores Cookie Skillet
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a medium skillet by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Cream together softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Mix until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat until fully integrated, ensuring a smooth and homogenous batter.
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Whisk together the dry ingredients in a separate bowl: all-purpose flour, crushed graham crackers, baking soda, and salt. This gives you an even distribution of leavening agents and flavors.
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Combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula until just incorporated. Stir in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
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Press half of the cookie dough into the bottom of the prepared skillet, forming a solid base that will hold the marshmallow crème.
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Spread the marshmallow crème over the cookie base, making sure to leave a small gap from the edges for expansion during baking.
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Flatten the remaining cookie dough and layer it over the marshmallow crème, lightly pressing it down to ensure the layers adhere.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-24 minutes. Look for golden brown edges and a slightly set center that’s still gooey.
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Cool the skillet for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the dessert to set a bit and makes for easier serving!
Optional: Top with extra chocolate chips or mini marshmallows for an indulgent finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Gooey S’mores Cookie Skillet
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Room Temperature: Keep leftovers tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2-3 days to retain the gooey texture and flavor.
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Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate covered for up to 5 days. Just warm it slightly before serving to bring back the gooeyness.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked skillet wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving to enjoy that fresh-baked taste.
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Reheating: To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Enjoy those delightful, gooey bites once again!
Expert Tips for Gooey S’mores Cookie Skillet
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Butter Softness: Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for easy creaming, helping to achieve a light and fluffy texture.
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Baking Time Watch: Keep an eye on the skillet while baking. You want golden edges but a gooey center, so don’t overbake!
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Cooling Matters: Let it cool for the full 10 minutes before slicing, as this helps the gooey center set slightly for easier serving.
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Customized Toppings: Feel free to mix up toppings! Add a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of caramel for extra flavor in your Gooey S’mores Cookie Skillet.
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Avoid Sticking: Use parchment paper for lining the skillet to prevent any sticking, making cleanup even easier and ensuring perfect slices.
Make Ahead Options
These Gooey S’mores Cookie Skillets are perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, allowing you to enjoy them with minimal last-minute stress. You can prepare the cookie dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply mix the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic or store in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. The marshmallow crème can also be prepared in advance and kept in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to serve, just layer the marshmallow crème with the cookie dough and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have the same gooey, comforting results with less effort on the day of your celebration!
Gooey S’mores Cookie Skillet Variations & Substitutions
Get ready to elevate your dessert experience as you explore these delightful twists on your favorite treat.
- Nut-Free: Swap out the chocolate chips for dried fruit like cranberries or cherries for a chewy, sweet alternative.
- Vegan-Friendly: Use a flax egg instead of the large egg, and opt for dairy-free chocolate chips to keep it plant-based. This version allows everyone to enjoy!
- Chocolate Lovers: For extra decadence, layer in chunks of your favorite chocolate bar along with the chips. Every bite will be a chocolate explosion!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of cinnamon to the dough for a surprising warmth that complements the sweetness.
- Peppermint Twist: Substitute a few drops of peppermint extract in place of vanilla and add crushed candy canes on top for a holiday vibe.
- Caramel Drizzle: Elevate the flavors by drizzling warm caramel sauce over the top before serving; a toasted flavor brings a delightful crunch.
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend, so everyone can savor this satisfying dessert.
- Banana Version: Mash in a ripe banana into the dough for a tropical twist and natural sweetness while adding a subtle flavor that pairs beautifully!
Explore these variations to make your Gooey S’mores Cookie Skillet truly your own, each one inviting new layers of enjoyment and memories to be made.
What to Serve with Gooey S’mores Cookie Skillet?
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of this decadent dessert perfectly paired with delightful accompaniments.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, this classic pairing complements the warm, gooey center beautifully. Imagine a scoop slowly melting over the cookie, enhancing both flavor and texture!
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Fresh Berries: Bright and juicy berries like strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing, tangy contrast to the richness of the cookie, balancing out the sweetness.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream on top brings extra indulgence and a fluffy texture to each slice served warm from the skillet.
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Chocolate Sauce: For the ultimate chocolate lover, drizzling warm chocolate sauce over each piece intensifies the rich chocolate flavor and adds a luscious element that will leave guests wanting more.
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Caramel Drizzle: Sweet and buttery, a drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the s’mores theme while adding a silky richness that complements the cookie’s gooey layers.
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Coffee or Hot Chocolate: Sip on a warm beverage like coffee or hot chocolate as you enjoy your dessert, creating a cozy experience that wraps you in warmth, reminiscent of gatherings around the campfire.
Gooey S’mores Cookie Skillet Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Gooey S’mores Cookie Skillet, ensure your butter is perfectly softened at room temperature, usually about 30 minutes after taking it out of the fridge. Use fresh eggs, as their quality can impact the texture of your cookie, and look for baking soda that’s not expired. Visually inspect your chocolate chips for any signs of fading or sugar bloom, which indicates age.
How should I store leftovers, and how long will they last?
Very! You can keep leftovers tightly covered at room temperature for about 2-3 days. If you’d like to extend their life, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. When storing in the fridge, simply warm individual slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore that gooey goodness. Just be sure to cover it properly to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze the Gooey S’mores Cookie Skillet?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the completely cooled skillet tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This will keep it fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through. It’s like having a fresh-baked dessert waiting for you!
What should I do if my cookie skillet turns out dry or too crumbly?
Very good question! If you find that your Gooey S’mores Cookie Skillet turns out dry, it could be due to using too much flour or overbaking. Make sure to gently spoon your flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy. Also, keep an eye on baking time; if your edges are golden but the center seems set, it’s time to take it out! Adding a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream when serving can also help add moisture back.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Very! This recipe contains dairy and eggs, which may not be suitable for those with allergies. For a vegan option, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for a few minutes). Additionally, confirm that your chocolate chips are dairy-free if needed. Always keep allergies in mind when sharing with friends or family!
Gooey S’mores Cookie Skillet: Your New Favorite Cozy Dessert
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a medium skillet by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream together softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Mix until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat until fully integrated, ensuring a smooth and homogenous batter.
- Whisk together the dry ingredients in a separate bowl: all-purpose flour, crushed graham crackers, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula until just incorporated. Stir in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Press half of the cookie dough into the bottom of the prepared skillet, forming a solid base.
- Spread the marshmallow crème over the cookie base, making sure to leave a small gap from the edges.
- Flatten the remaining cookie dough and layer it over the marshmallow crème, lightly pressing it down.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-24 minutes. Look for golden brown edges and a slightly set center that’s still gooey.
- Cool the skillet for about 10 minutes before slicing.
- Optional: Top with extra chocolate chips or mini marshmallows for an indulgent finish.