If you are craving a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent, this Skillet Brownie Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine a rich, fudgy brownie baked right in a cast iron skillet, with pockets of melted chocolate mingling through every bite. The warm aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is irresistible, and the slightly crisp edges contrasting with the gooey center create the perfect brownie experience. This recipe transforms a simple brownie into a shareable, impressive dessert that’s ideal for any occasion, from casual family nights to festive gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a vital role in creating the rich texture and luscious taste of the skillet brownie. The balance of butter and oil ensures moisture and a tender crumb, while the combination of sugars adds that perfect caramelized sweetness and depth.

3/4 cup butter: Brings richness and a velvety texture to the brownie.
1/4 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the brownie moist and tender without overpowering the flavor.
1 1/2 cups chocolate chips, divided: Chocolate chips melt throughout for gooey chocolate pockets and a luscious finish.
1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the brownie’s structure.
3/4 cup brown sugar: Gives a touch of molasses flavor and chewiness.
3 eggs + 2 yolks: Eggs provide richness and bind the batter together beautifully.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor with a warm fragrance.
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure without making the brownies heavy.
1/2 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor and a dark color.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and highlights the chocolate notes.
1/8-1/4 teaspoon espresso powder (optional): Intensifies the chocolate flavor without imparting coffee taste.

How to Make Skillet Brownie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the chocolate base

Start by melting the butter, oil, and one cup of chocolate chips together in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. This step is key to blending the fats and chocolate evenly, which sets the foundation for that fudgy texture. Once melted, pour the mixture into a heat-proof bowl and let it cool for about five minutes so you don’t scramble the eggs later on.

Step 2: Preheat and grease the skillet

While the chocolate mixture cools, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 10-inch cast iron skillet and lightly grease it to ensure your brownie releases easily after baking. Using a cast iron skillet is essential because it conducts heat evenly, giving you perfectly crisp edges.

Step 3: Whisk eggs and vanilla

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, extra yolks, and vanilla extract until smooth and pale. This mix adds structure and moisture to the batter, while the vanilla boosts the overall flavor, making your brownie utterly irresistible.

Step 4: Combine wet ingredients

Pour the egg mixture slowly into the warm chocolate base, whisking constantly to create a silky batter. This gradual incorporation ensures the eggs don’t cook prematurely and that the final mixture is smooth and evenly combined.

Step 5: Add dry ingredients

Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and espresso powder if you’re using it. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. It’s important not to overmix here; a few flour streaks should still be visible before you add the remaining chocolate chips. This keeps the brownie tender.

Step 6: Stir in remaining chocolate chips

Fold the leftover chocolate chips into the batter. These chips will create those delicious melty pockets of chocolate throughout the skillet brownie that make every bite a little celebration.

Step 7: Bake to perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared skillet, smoothing out the top evenly. Place it in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, depending on whether you prefer a gooey center or a slightly more set brownie. Keep an eye on it – the edges should be firm, and a toothpick inserted in the center will come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter.

Step 8: Let it rest before serving

Once baked, allow your skillet brownie to cool in the pan for a few minutes. This resting period helps the interior set just right and makes it easier to slice and serve. Plus, it lets the flavors meld beautifully.

How to Serve Skillet Brownie Recipe

Garnishes

One of the most delightful things about this skillet brownie is how customizable it can be with garnishes. A scoop of silky vanilla ice cream melting on top adds a luscious contrast of hot and cold. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries bring brightness and a hint of tartness that balances the chocolate’s richness. For a little extra indulgence, drizzle warm caramel or sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top to enhance flavors magically.

Side Dishes

This dessert shines on its own, but pairing it with simple sides can elevate the experience. A dollop of whipped cream offers lightness, while a cup of strong coffee or rich hot chocolate complements the brownie’s intense chocolate notes perfectly. Even a refreshing mint leaf or crushed nuts sprinkled alongside can add interesting texture and flair.

Creative Ways to Present

Because this is a skillet brownie, you can present it straight from the pan for a rustic, inviting look that screams comfort food. For celebrations, try adding colorful sprinkles or edible gold dust on top for a festive touch. Alternatively, cut it into wedges and serve on a wooden board with small bowls of toppings so everyone can customize their piece. No matter how you serve it, the Skillet Brownie Recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which might be rare because it tastes so good), wrap the skillet brownie tightly in plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. It will keep well at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for about four days. Storing it properly keeps it moist and prevents it from drying out.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze your skillet brownie. Let it cool completely, then slice into portions and place them on a parchment-lined tray to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer the pieces to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy a quick chocolate fix whenever the craving hits.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or pop them in a warm oven (about 300°F) wrapped in foil for 10 minutes. This revives that fresh-baked feel and brings back the gooey melty texture that makes this skillet brownie recipe so irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of chocolate for this Skillet Brownie Recipe?

Absolutely! While semisweet chocolate chips work best for balanced sweetness and meltability, you can experiment with bittersweet or even dark chocolate chips depending on your taste preferences. Just keep in mind the sweetness level may vary slightly.

Is it necessary to use a cast iron skillet?

While a cast iron skillet is ideal for even heat distribution and creating those signature crispy edges, you can use any oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Just adjust the baking time accordingly and be sure to grease it well.

What’s the purpose of the espresso powder in the recipe?

The espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor by amplifying its depth and complexity without adding a coffee taste. It’s optional, but a little pinch can make your brownies taste even richer and more decadent.

How can I tell when the skillet brownie is done?

The edges should be set and look slightly pulled away from the skillet sides. Insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter. If you like your brownies fudgier, take them out a little earlier; for cakier texture, bake a bit longer.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just ensure your cocoa powder and other ingredients are gluten-free certified to keep the recipe safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about gathering around a warm skillet filled with gooey, chocolatey goodness, and this Skillet Brownie Recipe brings that joy to life effortlessly. It’s simple enough to whip up whenever you want but impressive enough to wow guests. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the magic of that tender, rich, and melt-in-your-mouth brownie that only a skillet can deliver.

Skillet Brownie Recipe

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4.4 from 28 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

This Skillet Brownie recipe delivers a rich, fudgy dessert perfect for sharing. Made in a cast iron skillet and baked in the oven, it combines melted butter, chocolate chips, and cocoa powder for a deeply chocolatey experience. With an easy mixing process and a deliciously gooey center, it’s ideal for cozy nights and special treats.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

3/4 cup butter
1/4 cup vegetable oil
3 eggs
2 egg yolks
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)

Sugars & Chocolate

1 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 1/2 cups chocolate chips, divided (1 cup for melting, 1/2 cup for mixing in)

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Instructions

Warm Butter and Chocolate: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, vegetable oil, and 1 cup of chocolate chips together, stirring frequently until smooth. Remove from heat and pour the mixture into a heat-proof bowl. Let it cool for about 5 minutes.
Preheat and Prepare Skillet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet and set it aside.
Whisk Eggs and Vanilla: In a separate bowl, whisk the 3 eggs, 2 egg yolks, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Combine Eggs and Chocolate Mixture: Slowly pour the egg mixture into the slightly cooled chocolate mixture, whisking constantly to blend them thoroughly.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gently stir in the flour, Dutch-process cocoa powder, salt, and espresso powder (if using) until the batter is almost fully combined. Leave a few streaks of flour for better texture.
Fold in Remaining Chocolate Chips: Add the remaining 1/2 cup of chocolate chips and stir just until evenly distributed without overmixing.
Transfer and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cast iron skillet, smoothing the top evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, adjusting the time based on your preferred brownie doneness—less time for fudgier brownies, more for cakier texture.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, let the skillet brownie cool for several minutes. Serve warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent finish. Enjoy your rich, chocolatey treat!

Notes

For a deeper chocolate flavor, use Dutch-process cocoa powder as specified.
Adding espresso powder is optional but recommended as it enhances the chocolate taste without adding coffee flavor.
Do not overbake; check for a slightly soft center to keep the brownie fudgy.
Ensure the skillet is well greased to prevent sticking.
This recipe is easy to double but bake in a larger or separate skillet to maintain even cooking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American