Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
• Vanilla ice cream, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and both sugars until light and fluffy. This will take approximately 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in the vanilla extract and egg, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture into the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until the ingredients are fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as it can result in a denser cookie.
6. Next, gently fold in the chocolate chips and, if desired, the chopped nuts.
7. Now it’s time to bring in the skillet! Ensure your skillet is oven-safe and well-greased. Transfer the cookie dough into the skillet, spreading it out evenly.
8. Bake the skillet cookie in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are nicely caramelized and the center is slightly set.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
10. To serve, scoop a generous portion of the warm skillet chocolate chip cookie onto a plate, and top it off with a scoop (or maybe two) of creamy vanilla ice cream.

Tips and Variations:

• For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle some caramel or chocolate sauce over the skillet cookie before serving.
• You can make this recipe even more special by adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top just before baking.
• Don’t have a skillet? No worries! You can use a round cake pan or a pie dish.
• Feel free to get creative with your choice of chocolate. Swap semi-sweet for dark chocolate chunks or even white chocolate chips.

Conclusion:

Now, my fellow dessert enthusiasts, the time has come to bring this Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie masterpiece into your own home. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy winter night or celebrating a special occasion, this warm and gooey delight will never disappoint. Remember, it’s not just a cookie; it’s a beautiful blend of memories, tradition, and pure indulgence. Happy baking!