If you ever find yourself craving something indulgent, warm, and irresistibly gooey, this Skillet Brownie is the dessert you need to make right now. It’s the perfect marriage of fudgy chocolate richness with a slightly crispy edge, all baked right in a cast-iron skillet for that homey, rustic charm. Every bite feels like a hug, combining simple ingredients that somehow transform into a spectacular treat that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this Skillet Brownie recipe will become your go-to for satisfying sweet tooth moments with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Skillet Brownie recipe are straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect texture and flavor balance. From the richness of butter to the deep cocoa notes and the subtle crunch of chocolate chips, these staples come together to craft a dessert that’s both classic and comforting.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Melted to add richness and help achieve a moist, tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Balances sweetness with a slight crunch in the edges.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and a hint of caramel depth to the brownie.
- Large eggs (2): Provide structure and richness, binding everything together.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the chocolate flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
- Cocoa powder (1/2 cup): Responsible for that intense chocolate taste and beautiful color.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Gives just enough body for a tender yet firm brownie.
- Baking powder (1/2 tsp): Helps with a slight lift, preventing the brownie from becoming too dense.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and amplifies the chocolate flavors.
- Chocolate chips (1/2 cup): Melt into pockets of gooey, melty chocolate throughout the brownie.
- Optional toppings: Vanilla ice cream and melted chocolate drizzle bring an extra layer of indulgence.
How to Make Skillet Brownie
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Skillet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your small cast-iron skillet to ensure the brownie doesn’t stick and to help develop a crisp, golden edge that contrasts beautifully with the gooey middle. This step sets the stage for your Skillet Brownie to bake perfectly.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until everything is nicely incorporated and smooth. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract. This mixture carries the moisture and sweetness that make your brownie irresistibly rich and tender.
Step 3: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Sift together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures there are no lumps and helps distribute ingredients evenly. Slowly add these dry ingredients into your wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips for bursts of melty chocolate that make every forkful a delight.
Step 4: Bake Your Skillet Brownie
Pour the batter into your prepared skillet and smooth out the top with a spatula. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. You’re aiming for set edges with a center that remains soft and slightly gooey—this contrast is what makes a Skillet Brownie truly special. Keep an eye on it near the end to avoid overbaking.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your Skillet Brownie cool for about 5 minutes—just enough to slightly firm up while still warm enough to enjoy melted chocolate bliss. This brief pause makes it easier to serve while preserving that delightful gooey texture in the center.
How to Serve Skillet Brownie
Garnishes
To elevate your Skillet Brownie, top it with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The contrast between warm brownie and cold ice cream is divine. Drizzle some melted chocolate over the top for an extra touch of indulgence. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts, sea salt flakes, or fresh berries to add a fresh or crunchy element.
Side Dishes
While a Skillet Brownie is fantastic on its own, pairing it with a fresh fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream adds a refreshing element that balances the brownie’s richness. A cup of robust coffee or a creamy latte also pairs perfectly to create an inviting dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings or special occasions, serve your Skillet Brownie straight from the skillet for a rustic, cozy vibe. You can also cut it into wedges and plate each with garnishes for a more polished presentation. If you’re feeling adventurous, try layering with caramel sauce or adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking for a unique twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store your Skillet Brownie covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days with the gooey texture intact, making it easy to enjoy the next day without compromising flavor or moistness.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Skillet Brownie by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Freezing allows you to prep ahead for future cravings or special occasions.
Reheating
Reheat pieces of the Skillet Brownie gently in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or until warm, or place in a warm oven (about 300°F/150°C) for 5-10 minutes. For a melty, fresh-out-of-the-oven experience, adding an extra chocolate chip topping before reheating works wonders.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pan instead of a cast-iron skillet?
Absolutely! A metal or oven-safe ceramic pan works just fine, but the cast-iron skillet gives the brownie that signature crispy edge and even heat, which is tough to beat. Just adjust baking time slightly depending on your pan size and material.
Is it possible to make this Skillet Brownie vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil, and replace eggs with flax eggs or applesauce. Keep in mind this may slightly affect texture and flavor but still yields a delicious plant-based brownie.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even shredded coconut make excellent additions to the batter. Just fold them in alongside the chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
How do I know when the brownie is perfectly baked?
The edges should look set and slightly pulled away from the skillet, while the center remains shiny and a bit soft to the touch. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Can I double the recipe for a larger skillet?
You can double the ingredients to fit a larger skillet, but be mindful of baking time. It will likely need an additional 5-10 minutes or until the center sets properly. Keep a close watch near the end to avoid overbaking.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with a warm, fudgy Skillet Brownie to brighten any day. It’s one of those simple recipes that feels special with minimal effort, perfect for cozy nights, celebrations, or whenever your chocolate cravings strike. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite way to indulge in brownies!
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