There’s something magical about a skillet of warm, fudgy brownies fresh from the oven. These Perfect Skillet Brownies boast a rich, chocolatey flavor with a crackly top and a gooey center that’s utterly irresistible. In just 25 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of baking, you’ll have a dessert that feels indulgent yet approachable, perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
The texture is a dream—crisp edges give way to a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior that’s studded with pockets of melted chocolate. Each bite is a balance of sweetness and depth, enhanced by the warmth of the skillet. Whether topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed plain, these brownies are a treat that’s as comforting as it is decadent.
Ingredients for The Perfect Skillet Brownies
- 1 cup (8oz/225g) butter (unsalted recommended)
- 1 cup (8oz/225g) white sugar
- 1 cup (6oz/170g) dark brown sugar (light brown sugar works too)
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup (5oz/142g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (4oz/115g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (6oz/170g) bittersweet chocolate chips (semisweet or milk chocolate chips can be substituted)
- 1/2 cup (2 1/2 oz/71g) chopped walnuts, toasted (optional, or substitute with pecans)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Place a 10″ (25 cm) cast-iron skillet on the stovetop over low heat. Add the butter and let it melt gently without bubbling. Once melted, remove from heat.
- Stir in the white sugar and dark brown sugar until well combined.
- Crack in the eggs and add the vanilla extract. Use a fork to whisk everything together. Tip: Ensure the pan isn’t too hot when adding the eggs to avoid cooking them.
- Gently stir in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until you have a smooth batter. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped walnuts (if using).
- Spread the batter evenly in the skillet. Sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips and walnuts on top for added texture.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the brownies are just set to the touch. Note: The skillet retains heat, so the brownies will continue to cook slightly after removal. It’s better to slightly underbake them for a fudgy texture.
- Let the brownies cool slightly before serving. Top with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat!
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Indulgent Toppings to Elevate Your Brownies
Take your skillet brownies to the next level with these decadent toppings. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic, but try spiced caramel sauce or a drizzle of raspberry coulis for a fruity twist. For a richer treat, add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with sea salt. For something crunchy, sprinkle crushed toffee bits or toasted pecans on top. Let your creativity shine and make this dessert uniquely yours.
Perfect Pairings for Brownie Bliss
These skillet brownies are a star on their own, but pair them with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk for a classic combination. For a grown-up twist, serve with a glass of red wine or a creamy espresso martini. If you’re hosting a dessert bar, offer fresh berries and whipped cream on the side for a lighter option. Your guests will love the variety!
Smart Storage and Reheating Tips
Keep your brownies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To enjoy them warm again, pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or heat it in the skillet over low heat for a minute. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
Easy Recipe Variations to Try
Switch up the flavors by adding a tablespoon of espresso powder for a mocha twist or swapping walnuts for pecans or hazelnuts. If you’re a mint lover, mix in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract. For a tropical twist, fold in shredded coconut and macadamia nuts. You can also replace chocolate chips with white chocolate or peanut butter chips for a fun change. The possibilities are endless!
Cast-Iron Skillet Tips for Perfect Brownies
Using a cast-iron skillet ensures even heat distribution and a crispy edge. If your skillet isn’t seasoned, lightly grease it before adding the batter. Remember to let the skillet cool slightly after melting the butter to avoid cooking the eggs. After baking, the skillet will stay hot, so use oven mitts when handling. Clean it by wiping with a paper towel and avoid harsh scrubbing to maintain its non-stick surface.
The Perfect Skillet Brownies
Equipment
- 10″ (25 cm) cast-iron skillet
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter 8oz/225g
- 1 cup white sugar 8oz/225g
- 1 cup dark brown sugar 6oz/170g
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour 5oz/142g
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 4oz/115g
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup bittersweet chocolate chips 6oz/170g
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts 2 1/2 oz/71g, toasted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Place a 10″ (25 cm) cast-iron skillet on the stovetop over low heat.
- Add in butter and allow to melt gently without bubbling. Once melted remove from the heat.
- Stir in the white and brown sugar.
- Next, crack in the eggs and add the vanilla. Using a fork, whisk these ingredients together. Note: make sure the pan isn’t HOT when you add in the eggs or it will cook them.
- Stir in flour, cocoa powder, and salt and mix until you have a smooth brownie batter. Don’t beat as it will toughen your brownies.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts.
- Spread the brownie batter evenly into the skillet and finish by sprinkling over a few extra chocolate chips and chopped walnuts.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the brownie is JUST set to touch. Baking Note: The skillet retains heat so once you remove it from the oven the brownies will actually continue to cook so take it out of the oven when they are a little ‘under’ done. As the brownie cools it will set up and be perfect and fudgy.
- Once cooled down slightly, top with vanilla ice-cream and dig in! Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
