Valentine’s Day Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, this Valentine’s Day Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe is exactly that. Gooey, buttery, and studded with peanut butter M&Ms and mini chocolate chips, it’s a celebration of all things sweet and cozy.

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Jump to:

• Why You'll Love This Recipe
• Ingredients & Why They Work
• Make It Your Way
• Step-by-Step: How I Make Valentine’s Day Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe
• Top Tip
• How to Serve Valentine’s Day Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe
• Make Ahead and Storage
• Frequently Asked Questions:
• Final Thoughts
• Valentine’s Day Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe

Ingredients & Why They Work

This recipe uses simple pantry staples, but choosing quality ingredients really makes a difference. I find that softening butter to room temperature helps the cookie achieve that perfect texture.

• Butter: Using softened butter ensures the dough creams smoothly for that tender crumb and rich flavor.
• White Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps the cookie spread just right.
• Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel note to enhance the chocolate and M&Ms.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the soft, chewy texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
• Unbleached Flour: Gives structure without the bitterness sometimes found in bleached flour.
• Baking Soda: Leavens the dough so the cookie rises and has a nice crumb.
• Table Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Mini Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Melt perfectly into pockets of gooey chocolate goodness.
• Peanut Butter M&Ms: I prefer these for this recipe because they add a colorful crunch and a hint of peanut butter flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Valentine’s Day Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you prefer a nutty twist, a gluten-free option, or even a seasonal flair, it’s simple to tweak this recipe to make it truly your own.

• Peanut Butter Twist: I love swapping the holiday M&Ms for Peanut Butter M&Ms, which adds an extra layer of rich, creamy flavor alongside the chocolate chips—such an indulgent surprise in every bite!
• Dark Chocolate Lovers: For those who prefer a slightly more intense chocolate experience, replacing the semi-sweet chips with dark chocolate chips elevates the cookie’s depth without overpowering the buttery dough.
• Gluten-Free Version: Using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend makes this dessert accessible while retaining that irresistible chewy texture. Just be sure your blend contains xanthan gum or another binder!
• Seasonal M&Ms Swap: Change up the M&Ms based on the occasion—think pastel colors for Easter or orange and black for Halloween—to keep this skillet cookie fun and festive all year round.
• Ice Cream Pairings: While classic vanilla ice cream is a delicious match, I’ve also enjoyed this cookie with salted caramel or even mint chocolate chip ice cream for an extra flavor kick.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Valentine’s Day Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Skillet

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Take a 12-inch cast iron skillet and generously grease it with softened butter. This step is key to making sure your cookie doesn’t stick and that the edges crisp up beautifully. Use your fingers or a brush to spread the butter evenly, paying extra attention to the sides and corners.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened butter with ¾ cup white granulated sugar and ¾ cup brown sugar. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy fork to cream them together until the mixture looks smooth and fluffy—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. You'll notice the sugars dissolve slightly into the butter creating a pale, airy base that’s perfect for a tender cookie.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This ensures a smooth, cohesive dough. Next, mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for that warm, inviting aroma that signals comfort and indulgence.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Gradually stir in 2 ½ cups of unbleached flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon table salt. Take your time to mix until just combined—overmixing can make the cookie tough, and we want soft, chewy perfection. The dough will thicken and start to look buttery and slightly grainy from the sugars.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate and M&Ms

Gently fold in 12 ounces of mini semi-sweet chocolate chips, along with half of the package of Peanut Butter M&Ms. These colorful candies add delightful bursts of peanut butter flavor and a bit of crunch, complementing the melty chocolate chips perfectly.

Step 6: Press Dough into Skillet

Transfer your cookie dough into the greased skillet. Using the back of a spatula or your fingers, spread and press the dough evenly across the bottom until it forms a level, smooth base. This ensures the cookie bakes uniformly with those crave-worthy crisp edges.

Step 7: Bake and Add Topping

Bake the skillet cookie for 25 minutes. The edges should turn lightly golden brown, signaling it’s time for the next step. Carefully remove the skillet from the oven, sprinkle the remaining M&Ms on top, and gently press them into the dough. Pop it back in for another 8 minutes—the center will be just set but still soft and gooey.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Remove the skillet from the oven and let the cookie cool for 30 to 45 minutes right in the skillet. This cooling time helps set the center without sacrificing the soft, chewy texture. Serve warm, and don’t forget the vanilla ice cream on top for an irresistible dessert experience that’s tailor-made for Valentine’s Day sharing.

How to Serve Valentine’s Day Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe

Garnishes

Keep it simple and sweet: a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the warm cookie is a heavenly classic. For extra flair, try adding a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to contrast the sweetness. Fresh strawberries or raspberries also complement the peanut butter M&Ms beautifully for that Valentine’s vibe.

Side Dishes

This skillet cookie is rich enough to be the star of the show, but if you want to round out your dessert spread, consider pairing it with a light, fresh fruit salad or a chilled glass of milk or sparkling rosé to balance all that buttery sweetness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, cover the skillet cookie tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will keep fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days without sacrificing softness.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover cookie slices by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. No need to thaw completely before reheating — you can go straight from freezer to oven.

Reheating

Warm up slices in a preheated 325°F oven for about 8-10 minutes. This will revive that crispy edge and gooey center. Alternatively, a quick 20-second zap in the microwave does the trick if you’re in a hurry, just be mindful not to overheat.

Final Thoughts

This Valentine’s Day Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe is truly a love letter to any sweet tooth. Whether you’re sharing it with someone special or indulging in a little self-love, the combination of buttery dough, peanut butter M&Ms, and melty chocolate chips baked to gooey perfection just can’t be beat. So go ahead and treat yourself—you deserve it!

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