Pistachio Cream Skillet Cookie Recipe
If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the nutty richness of pistachios with the warm comfort of a freshly baked cookie, you absolutely must try this Pistachio Cream Skillet Cookie Recipe. It’s everything you want in a dessert: gooey, buttery, packed with crunchy pistachios, and crowned with luscious pistachio cream that melts into the cookie, making every bite decadently dreamy. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this skillet cookie delivers on flavor and wow factor with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and the harmony of flavors. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating that perfect texture, balanced sweetness, and vibrant color that makes the Pistachio Cream Skillet Cookie Recipe so irresistible.
- Butter (1/2 cup, softened): Gives the cookie its rich, tender crumb and helps achieve a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Light brown sugar (1/3 cup, lightly packed): Adds moistness and a subtle caramel flavor that deepens the cookie’s sweetness.
- Caster sugar (1/3 cup): Provides a clean, crunchy sweetness and helps with a lovely cookie spread.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses the dough with warm, aromatic notes that complement the pistachios perfectly.
- Egg (1 large): Binds the ingredients and adds moisture for a soft but structured cookie.
- Orange zest (from 1/2 orange): Brightens the flavor profile with a fresh citrus twist.
- Plain flour (1 cup): The foundation of the dough, providing structure.
- Baking soda (1/3 teaspoon): Helps the cookie rise slightly and get just the right texture.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Pistachios (1/2 cup, chopped): Adds delightful crunch and that unmistakable nutty flavor.
- Chocolate (1/2 cup, chopped): Brings a luscious, melty richness that pairs perfectly with pistachios.
- Pistachio cream (1/2 cup, melted): The star of this recipe—a creamy, dreamy layer that elevates this skillet cookie to a new level.
How to Make Pistachio Cream Skillet Cookie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Skillet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take an 8-inch cast iron skillet or a pie dish and line it with baking or parchment paper. This will ensure your cookie comes out easily and keeps its beautiful shape.
Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugars, and Vanilla
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the softened butter, light brown sugar, caster sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy. This step creates a rich base that gives your cookie dough incredible texture and depth of flavor.
Step 3: Add Egg and Orange Zest
Whisk in the egg and the fresh zest from half an orange. This citrusy addition adds a surprising brightness that cuts through the sweetness and adds a subtle complexity.
Step 4: Blend in Dry Ingredients
Stir in the plain flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined. Overmixing can make cookies tough, so stop as soon as everything is incorporated for a tender crumb.
Step 5: Fold in Pistachios and Chocolate
Gently fold in half of your chopped pistachios and chocolate pieces to evenly distribute these delicious bursts of texture throughout the dough.
Step 6: Assemble the Skillet Cookie
Spread half the cookie dough evenly in the prepared skillet. Then melt the pistachio cream by heating it in the microwave for about 30 seconds until it thins out slightly. Carefully spread this luscious melted cream over the dough, staying about 1 inch away from the edges to avoid leaks.
Step 7: Add the Remaining Dough and Toppings
Layer the remaining cookie dough on top of the pistachio cream. Smooth it out gently with the back of a spoon and your fingers if necessary. Sprinkle the rest of the chocolate and pistachios over the top to create a visually enticing, crunchy finish.
Step 8: Bake to Gooey Perfection
Bake for 20 minutes if you want a gooey center with soft edges. For a firmer cookie, cover the skillet with foil after 20 minutes and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before digging in — patience will reward you!
How to Serve Pistachio Cream Skillet Cookie Recipe
Garnishes
To make your serving extra special, sprinkle chopped fresh pistachios or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top. A drizzle of white chocolate or extra pistachio cream adds a final flourish that will have everyone swooning.
Side Dishes
This cookie shines brightest on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla or pistachio ice cream. For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside a cup of espresso or green tea to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the skillet cookie directly from the pan for a rustic, cozy feel. Alternatively, slice it into wedges and present on decorative plates with a dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of honeyed yogurt for that wow factor. For parties, mini skillet cookies or individual ramekins layered with pistachio cream make elegant single servings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover cookie tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining its soft yet chewy texture.
Freezing
If you want to keep this gem longer, freeze the cooled, uncut skillet cookie wrapped securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat individual slices gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds to restore that gooey warmth. Alternatively, warm the entire skillet cookie in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 to 10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use a regular baking pan instead of a cast iron skillet?
Absolutely! A pie dish or any oven-safe baking pan will work just fine. Just make sure to line it well with parchment to prevent sticking, and keep an eye on baking times as they might vary slightly.
What exactly is pistachio cream and where can I find it?
Pistachio cream is a smooth, sweet spread made from ground pistachios, similar to nut butters but creamier and used in desserts. You can find it at specialty grocery stores, gourmet markets, or online.
Can I substitute the pistachio cream with something else?
While the pistachio cream adds that signature flavor and creamy texture, you could experiment with almond or hazelnut spreads, but keep in mind the cookie will taste different. For the full experience, I highly recommend sticking with pistachio cream.
Is it better to chop pistachios and chocolate finely or roughly?
Roughly chopped nuts and chocolate offer delightful texture contrasts and bursts of flavor throughout the cookie. Finely chopping tends to blend everything more evenly but can lose that satisfying crunch.
How do I achieve a gooey center without undercooking the edges?
Baking the cookie for 20 minutes without additional time gives you that gooey middle while the edges set just enough for structure. Keep an eye on it and use foil if you want a firmer cookie without drying it out.
Final Thoughts
This Pistachio Cream Skillet Cookie Recipe is a true showstopper that brings elegance and comfort to your baking. Its harmonious blend of textures and flavors makes it one you’ll want to bake again and again. So gather your ingredients, warm up your skillet, and get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this nutty, creamy treat!
Print
Pistachio Cream Skillet Cookie Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
A luscious Pistachio Cream Skillet Cookie featuring layers of buttery cookie dough, melted pistachio cream, chopped pistachios, and chocolate chunks baked to gooey perfection in a cast iron skillet. This dessert delivers a perfect balance of nutty richness and sweet, soft texture, ideal for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
- 1/3 cup caster sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 orange, zest
- 1 cup plain flour
- 1/3 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
- 1/2 cup chocolate, chopped
Pistachio Cream Layer
- 1/2 cup pistachio cream, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Skillet: Preheat your oven to 350° F (175°C). Line an 8-inch cast iron skillet or pie dish with baking/parchment paper to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, whisk together the softened butter, light brown sugar, caster sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy.
- Add Egg and Zest: Whisk in the egg and orange zest until fully combined, lending a citrus aroma to the dough.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the plain flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Gently mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Fold in Nuts and Chocolate: Carefully fold in half of the chopped chocolate and half of the pistachios, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
- Layer the Dough: Spread half of the cookie dough evenly onto the prepared skillet base, creating an even layer.
- Apply Pistachio Cream: Melt the pistachio cream in the microwave for 30 seconds until it becomes pourable. Spread the melted pistachio cream over the cookie dough layer, leaving about a 1-inch border.
- Top with Remaining Dough and Toppings: Dollop the remaining cookie dough over the pistachio cream layer and smooth it out with the back of a metal spoon or your fingers. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chunks and chopped pistachios on top.
- Bake the Cookie: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes for a gooey, soft cookie. For a firmer, more set texture, cover the skillet with aluminum foil after 20 minutes and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the skillet cookie cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving to let it set slightly.
Notes
- Use an 8-inch cast iron skillet or pie dish for uniform baking.
- Ensure the butter is softened for easier creaming with sugars.
- Melt pistachio cream just until pourable; overheating may alter texture.
- Adjust baking time depending on desired gooeyness or firmness of the cookie.
- This recipe yields 16 small servings, perfect for sharing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
