Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Skillet Cookie for a Warm Dessert Delight

There’s something irresistible about the combination of apples, cinnamon, and a freshly baked cookie, and this Apple Cinnamon Skillet Cookie brings them together in a truly comforting way.

With the perfect balance of sweet, spiced apples and a soft, chewy cookie base, this dessert is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.

It’s baked in a cast-iron skillet, giving the edges a beautiful golden crisp while keeping the center gooey and soft.

This dessert is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzling it with caramel sauce, or simply enjoying it on its own, the flavor profile of cinnamon and apples makes it perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy family dinner, a festive gathering, or just a special treat for yourself.

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to make yet impressively indulgent, this Apple Cinnamon Skillet Cookie is your go-to recipe.

Ingredients

To make this warm and comforting Apple Cinnamon Skillet Cookie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Butter – 1/2 cup (softened to room temperature)
• Brown sugar – 3/4 cup (packed)
• Granulated sugar – 1/4 cup
• Eggs – 2 large
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
• All-purpose flour – 2 cups
• Baking soda – 1/2 teaspoon
• Ground cinnamon – 1 1/2 teaspoons
• Salt – 1/4 teaspoon
• Apples – 2 medium-sized, peeled and diced (Granny Smith apples are a great choice for their tartness)
• Chopped walnuts or pecans – 1/2 cup (optional, for added crunch)
• Toppings (optional):
  • Ice cream (vanilla or caramel)
  • Caramel sauce
  • Whipped cream

These ingredients work together to create a delightful balance of textures and flavors, from the tender apple chunks to the chewy, cinnamon-spiced cookie dough. The optional toppings add an extra indulgence that takes this dessert to the next level.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, take a 10-inch cast-iron skillet and grease it lightly with butter or non-stick spray. The skillet will give the cookie a beautiful golden edge and keep the center soft and gooey.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer. Once the mixture is light and creamy, add in the eggs, one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this helps ensure your cookie stays soft and chewy.

Step 3: Add the Apples and Nuts

Next, fold in the diced apples and walnuts (if using) into the dough. The apples will release some of their juice, which adds moisture to the cookie dough and gives it an extra burst of flavor. Be sure to fold gently to avoid mashing the apples.

Step 4: Bake the Cookie

Transfer the dough into the greased skillet, spreading it out evenly. The dough may appear slightly thick, but that’s perfect for the chewy texture we’re aiming for. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and allow the cookie to cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. The cookie will continue to firm up slightly as it cools, but the center will remain delightfully soft and gooey. For the ultimate indulgence, top the warm cookie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream.

This Apple Cinnamon Skillet Cookie is a perfect dessert to serve family and friends, or simply to enjoy as a treat after a meal. Its irresistible aroma and deliciously chewy texture make it a dessert worth savoring.

Tips for Perfect Apple Cinnamon Skillet Cookie

Achieving the perfect Apple Cinnamon Skillet Cookie is all about attention to detail. Here are a few tips to ensure your cookie turns out absolutely delicious every time:

1. Choose the Right Apples
   Opt for tart apples, such as Granny Smith, for a perfect contrast against the sweetness of the dough. Their firm texture holds up well during baking and gives the cookie a nice bite. Avoid overly sweet apples, as they may make the cookie too sugary.
2. Don’t Overmix the Dough
   Overmixing can result in a dense, tough cookie. After adding the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. A few lumps are perfectly fine—this will help keep your cookie soft and chewy.
3. Chill the Dough (Optional)
   If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help prevent the cookie from spreading too much and allow the flavors to meld together more deeply.
4. Use a Cast-Iron Skillet
   For an evenly cooked, golden crust, a cast-iron skillet is ideal. It provides even heat distribution, resulting in a crisp outer layer while keeping the inside soft and chewy. If you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, any oven-safe skillet will work, but the texture may vary slightly.
5. Add Extra Cinnamon
   Cinnamon is the star of this cookie, so don’t be afraid to add a little extra if you love that warm, spicy kick. A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking can add a delightful finish.
6. Top with Caramel or Whipped Cream
   For added richness, consider drizzling your warm cookie with caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream just before serving. This elevates the flavor and adds a smooth, creamy contrast to the warm, spiced cookie.

Serving Suggestions

This Apple Cinnamon Skillet Cookie is a treat best enjoyed fresh and warm. Here are some irresistible ways to serve it:

1. With a Scoop of Ice Cream
   Serve the cookie warm from the skillet with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. As the ice cream melts into the warm cookie, you’ll get the perfect balance of cold, creamy, and gooey dessert in every bite.
2. Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
   A generous drizzle of warm caramel sauce adds a rich, buttery flavor that complements the cinnamon and apple perfectly. The sweetness of the caramel sauce elevates the dessert to a decadent level.
3. Pair with a Hot Beverage
   Enjoy the cookie alongside a hot beverage like cinnamon-spiced coffee, chai tea, or a warm cup of apple cider. The spiced drinks enhance the warm, cozy feeling of the dessert and create the perfect pairing for a chilly evening.
4. As a Breakfast Treat
   Why not enjoy this skillet cookie for breakfast? Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey for a delightful morning treat that’s comforting and sweet.
5. Serve with Fresh Whipped Cream
   For a lighter option, top the cookie with freshly whipped cream. Its airy texture and light sweetness are the perfect contrast to the rich, dense cookie.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this Apple Cinnamon Skillet Cookie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s a dessert that’s as versatile as it is delicious, and its warm, comforting flavors make it perfect for any occasion.

Storage Instructions

To store your Apple Cinnamon Skillet Cookie and enjoy it later, follow these simple guidelines:

1. Room Temperature Storage
   If you plan to eat the leftover cookie within a few days, it can be stored at room temperature. Simply cover the skillet with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap to keep it fresh. The cookie will stay soft for up to 3 days.
2. Refrigeration
   If you need to store it for longer, you can keep the cookie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will help preserve its freshness, but the cookie may become firmer. To bring back some of its gooey texture, warm it up in the microwave or oven before serving.
3. Freezing
   You can also freeze the cookie for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw at room temperature and reheat for a few minutes in the oven to restore its freshness and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking for the best texture.

Can I use different types of apples?

While Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness, you can experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples will make the cookie a bit sweeter overall.

Can I add other fruits to the cookie?

Absolutely! You can add other fruits such as pears or berries for a fun twist on the classic apple cinnamon flavor. Be sure to chop them into small pieces so they bake evenly with the dough.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend you use includes xanthan gum or another binder to help with texture.

Can I skip the nuts?

Of course! If you have allergies or simply prefer a nut-free version, you can leave out the walnuts or pecans without compromising the cookie’s taste.

Conclusion

The Apple Cinnamon Skillet Cookie is an easy, comforting, and irresistible dessert that brings together the classic flavors of apples, cinnamon, and warm, chewy cookie dough.

Whether you serve it with a scoop of ice cream, drizzle it with caramel sauce, or enjoy it on its own, this skillet cookie is a perfect choice for any occasion.

With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s an ideal dessert to share with family and friends—or simply enjoy as a special treat for yourself.

So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and indulge in this warm, gooey, and delicious Apple Cinnamon Skillet Cookie today!

Let the flavors fill your home with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and apples as you bake up a sweet, spiced masterpiece.