Are you a devoted fan of skillet cookies? If so, prepare to fall head over heels for the **Peanut Butter Cup Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie**. This extraordinary dessert takes a beloved classic and elevates it to an art form, delivering an unforgettable experience right from your cast-iron skillet. Imagine a warm, gooey cookie, generously studded with luscious peanut butter cups and rich chocolate chips, all built upon a wholesome oatmeal cookie base. It’s an impressive showstopper that promises pure indulgence with every melting bite.

To truly embrace the decadence, dollop generous scoops of creamy vanilla ice cream or a cloud of whipped cream on top. The contrast of the cool, velvety toppings against the warm, soft cookie is simply divine. This recipe also offers a convenient gluten-free option, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful treat. If you’re nuts for peanut butter, don’t miss our collection of 17 Tempting Peanut Butter Cookies You’ll Go Nuts Over!

Peanut Butter Cup Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie: The Ultimate Gooey Indulgence

At its heart, a Peanut Butter Cup Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie is a marvel of dessert innovation. It reimagines the traditional cookie, baking it in a sturdy cast-iron skillet instead of a flat baking sheet. This method is not just a fun twist; it’s a game-changer, producing a cookie that’s spectacularly gooey in the center with perfectly crisp edges. The rich, melty chocolate, the hearty oatmeal base, and the surprising pockets of peanut butter cups create a symphony of textures and flavors that are simply irresistible.

This Peanut Butter Cup Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie is more than just a sweet treat; it’s an experience. It brings together the perfect combination of universally loved flavors: the creamy, nutty essence of peanut butter, the deep, comforting richness of chocolate, and the wholesome chewiness of oats. These ingredients, including Flahavan’s Oatmeal, Morena Sugar (a personal favorite, also featured in our Sheet Pan Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars), and classic brown sugar and vanilla, are typically pantry staples. Their popularity and accessibility make this dessert not only delicious but also incredibly convenient to whip up anytime a craving strikes.

What Makes Skillet Cookies Irresistible?

Skillet cookies have captured the hearts of dessert lovers everywhere, and for good reason. They offer a unique blend of comfort and elegance that transforms a simple cookie into a memorable event. The magic lies in the cooking vessel itself: a cast-iron skillet. Unlike traditional baking sheets, a cast-iron skillet retains and distributes heat incredibly evenly, resulting in a cookie that bakes beautifully from edge to edge. The high heat creates a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the interior wonderfully soft and molten.

There’s also an undeniable charm in serving a dessert straight from the oven in its rustic cast-iron vessel. It’s a presentation that screams warmth, generosity, and pure indulgence. This communal aspect, where spoons dive directly into the shared treat, fosters a sense of togetherness and creates delightful memories. The warm, gooey nature of a skillet cookie, especially when paired with melting ice cream, evokes joyful “oohs” and “aahs” – a clear sign of culinary bliss!

The Inspiration Behind This Homemade Delight

For many, the inspiration for baking skillet desserts at home comes from those special restaurant experiences. Who hasn’t indulged in a decadent skillet cookie or brownie at a favorite eatery, marveling at its warm, shareable glory? The idea of replicating that restaurant-quality indulgence in your own kitchen is incredibly appealing. It’s not just about saving money, though that’s a definite perk; it’s about the joy of creating something truly special for your family and friends. Imagine the satisfaction of pulling a golden-brown, bubbling skillet cookie from your oven, knowing you’ve crafted that perfect, shareable dessert yourself.

This Peanut Butter Cup Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie perfectly embodies that homemade luxury. It’s surprisingly easy to make, yet delivers on all fronts: rich flavors, delightful textures, and that irresistible warm-from-the-oven appeal. It’s a dessert that invites conversation, laughter, and maybe a friendly tug-of-war for the last gooey bite. Making it at home allows for customization, ensuring it’s tailored exactly to your preferences, and guarantees a hit at any gathering or a cozy night in.

Essential Ingredients for Your Skillet Cookie Masterpiece

Crafting the perfect Peanut Butter Cup Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie starts with a selection of high-quality, readily available ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that delightful balance of sweet, salty, and satisfying textures. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: The foundational dry ingredient. For a gluten-free option, simply substitute with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.
Baking soda: Essential for helping the cookie rise and achieve a soft, chewy texture.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors, particularly the chocolate and peanut butter, preventing the cookie from tasting overly sweet.
Old-fashioned oats: We recommend Flahavan’s Irish Oats for their hearty texture and rich flavor, but any good quality old-fashioned oats will work. Opt for gluten-free oats if needed.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter is key for creaming with sugars, creating a light and fluffy base.
Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a rich, molasses-like flavor that complements the oats and chocolate beautifully.
Granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s tender crumb. We prefer Zulka for its quality.
Peanut butter: The star of the show! Use your favorite creamy peanut butter for that unmistakable nutty goodness.
Egg: Acts as a binder, holding all the ingredients together and adding richness.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla extract elevates the aroma and depth of flavor in the cookie.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: We love Ghirardelli for their quality, but any good semi-sweet chocolate chip will provide that perfect melty chocolate burst.
Mini peanut butter cups: The ultimate surprise in every bite! These miniature treats melt into glorious pockets of peanut butter heaven throughout the cookie.

Elevate Your Skillet Cookie: Delicious Topping Ideas

While the Peanut Butter Cup Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie is phenomenal on its own, adding toppings takes it to an entirely new level of indulgence. The interplay of temperatures and textures makes for an unforgettable dessert experience. Here are our top recommendations:

Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing! The cold, creamy vanilla ice cream slowly melts into the warm cookie, creating a luscious sauce and a delightful contrast.
Chocolate syrup: Drizzle a rich chocolate syrup over the top for an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
Whipped cream: A light and airy dollop of whipped cream can provide a lovely counterpoint to the rich cookie.
Caramel sauce: A swirl of warm caramel sauce would add another dimension of sweet, buttery flavor.
Chopped nuts: A sprinkle of chopped peanuts or pecans can add a pleasant crunch and enhance the nutty flavors.

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Your Perfect Skillet Cookie

Creating this irresistible skillet cookie is straightforward and fun. Follow these steps for a perfectly baked, gloriously gooey dessert:

Prepare your oven and skillet: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, lightly spray a 9-inch cast-iron skillet with non-stick cooking spray, ensuring the entire surface is covered to prevent sticking.
Combine dry ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and old-fashioned oats until they are well combined. Set this dry mixture aside.
Cream butter and sugars: In a separate large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color, typically taking about 2-3 minutes. This step incorporates air, contributing to the cookie’s tender texture.
Add wet ingredients: To the creamed butter and sugar, add the peanut butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until all these wet ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth.
Incorporate dry ingredients and chocolate chips: Gradually add the reserved dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing can lead to a tough cookie. Fold in the chocolate chips last, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Press dough into skillet: Carefully press the cookie dough into your prepared cast-iron skillet. Make sure to leave a ½-inch space between the edge of the dough and the rim of the skillet. This allows the cookie to spread out naturally as it bakes without overflowing.
Add peanut butter cups: Gently press the mini peanut butter cups into the top of the cookie dough. You can add as many as you like! Be sure not to press them too deeply, as the cookie dough will rise during baking, and you want them to remain visible and perfectly melted on top rather than sinking to the bottom.
Bake to golden perfection: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-35 minutes. The cookie is done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are fine for a gooey center). If you notice the top browning too quickly during the last 10 minutes of baking, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
Serve warm and enjoy: Once baked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes, then serve your Peanut Butter Cup Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie warm, ideally with scoops of vanilla ice cream and a generous drizzle of chocolate syrup. Get ready for an incredible dessert experience!

Expert Tips for Skillet Cookie Success

To ensure your Peanut Butter Cup Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:

Don’t overfill the skillet: When pressing the dough into the skillet, ensure it’s not taller than the skillet’s edge. The cookie will rise during baking, and you want to avoid it spilling over. Using a deep-dish skillet can be particularly helpful for this!
Watch for browning: Keep an eye on the cookie as it bakes. If the top seems to be browning too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil for the remaining bake time.
Proper dough consistency: Ensure your butter is softened, not melted, for the best dough texture. This helps create that light and fluffy base when creamed with the sugars.
Avoid overmixing: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix only until just combined. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tougher cookie.
Room temperature ingredients: For optimal blending and emulsification, ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This creates a smoother, more uniform dough.
Gluten-free option: You can easily substitute regular all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend for a delicious alternative.
Cool slightly before serving: While tempting to dive in immediately, letting the cookie cool for 5-10 minutes allows it to set slightly, making it easier to scoop and preventing it from being excessively crumbly. It will still be wonderfully warm and gooey!

Choosing and Caring for Your Cast Iron Skillet

A good quality cast iron skillet is an invaluable tool for any home baker, especially when making delicious skillet cookies. The type of skillet you choose can influence your baking results, and proper care is essential to maintain its performance and longevity.

Recommended Skillets:

For this recipe, I personally used and recommend the Lodge Logic L5SK3 Pre-Seasoned Cast-Iron 8-Inch Skillet. Its deep-dish design was perfect for allowing the cookie to rise beautifully without overflowing, and it ensured remarkably even baking. Plus, it was surprisingly easy to clean, which is always a bonus!
If you prefer a thinner, perhaps crispier cookie, a wider skillet might be more to your liking. The Lodge LCS3 Cast Iron Chef’s Skillet, Pre-Seasoned, 10-inch is an excellent choice for a larger, flatter cookie.

Cast Iron Care Essentials:

Cast iron requires a little special attention, but it’s well worth the effort for cookware that can last a lifetime:

Hand-wash only: Never put your cast iron skillet in the dishwasher. The harsh detergents and prolonged moisture will strip its seasoning and cause rust. Always wash by hand with warm water and a stiff brush or scrubber (avoid harsh soaps if possible, or use a very mild one).
Dry immediately: After washing, thoroughly dry your skillet with a towel. Do not air dry, as this can lead to rust. For extra precaution, you can place it on low heat on the stovetop for a few minutes to ensure all moisture evaporates.
Seasoning: To prevent rust and maintain its non-stick properties, lightly oil your skillet after each use. Apply a very thin layer of cooking oil (like vegetable oil or grapeseed oil) to the entire surface, inside and out, using a paper towel. Then, wipe off any excess. This re-seasons the pan and keeps it in prime condition.
Handle with care: Remember that cast iron handles get incredibly hot! Always use a heavy oven mitt, a thick towel, or a silicone hot handle holder when transferring the skillet from the oven or stovetop. Some skillets even come with a silicone handle already attached, which is a brilliant feature, like this Lodge Cast Iron Skillet with Red Mini Silicone Hot Handle Holder, 8-inch.

Embracing cast iron cooking opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Once you master the basics, you’ll be making everything from skillet cookies to savory dishes with ease. Who knows, you might even find yourself adding a new skillet to your collection to make our Raspberry White Chocolate Pull-Apart Rolls or more delectable chocolate chip skillet cookies and brownies!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Skillet Cookies

Here are some common questions about baking and enjoying skillet cookies:

Can I make this cookie ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough up to 2-3 days in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before pressing into the skillet and baking as directed.
What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet? While a cast iron skillet is ideal for its heat retention and presentation, you can use an oven-safe pie dish or a similar round baking dish. The baking time might vary slightly, and the edges might not be as crispy.
How do I know when the skillet cookie is perfectly baked? Look for golden-brown edges. The center should still look slightly soft and gooey. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs, but not raw batter. Overbaking will result in a drier cookie.
Can I use different types of chocolate? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with milk chocolate chips, dark chocolate chunks, or even white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftover skillet cookie? If there are any leftovers (which is unlikely!), cover the skillet tightly with foil or transfer the cookie to an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave for that warm, gooey texture.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe. You might need to use a larger skillet (e.g., a 12-inch skillet) or divide the dough into two smaller skillets. Adjust baking time accordingly.

More Irresistible Peanut Butter, Chocolate, and Oatmeal Recipes

If you’re captivated by the delightful combination of oats, peanut butter, and chocolate, you’re in for a treat! Here are more recipes that showcase these fantastic flavors:

Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
Delish Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies
Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Balls – GF option
Chocolate Chip & Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cake
Healthy Strawberry Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
Peanut Butter Oat Chocolate Chip Cookies
Healthy Oatmeal Cups

And for even more sweet inspiration, explore these delightful desserts: Fresh Pineapple Upside Down Cake, 30 Mother’s Day Desserts for Mom, and 25 Luscious Raspberry Desserts!

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Dessert Awaits!

The Peanut Butter Cup Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie is truly a masterpiece, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will satisfy any sweet craving. It’s the ultimate dessert to share with family and friends, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser with minimal effort required. From its irresistible gooey center to its crisp edges, baked to perfection in a cast-iron skillet, this cookie delivers an experience that’s both comforting and impressive.

With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, there’s no reason not to treat yourself and your loved ones to this fantastic creation. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to bake a dessert that will be talked about long after the last scoop is savored. Get ready to enjoy the rich, nutty, and chocolatey goodness of your very own homemade skillet cookie – it’s a win-win in every bite!

Peanut Butter Cup Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe

This Peanut Butter Cup Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie bakes to a golden brown perfection and is absolutely incredible served warm, straight out of your cast-iron skillet. Prepare for a delicious, gooey peanut butter oatmeal cookie experience, loaded with chocolate chips and peanut butter cups! For an ultimate treat, top it off with creamy vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup!

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 25-35 mins | Servings: 8 Servings

Ingredients

Skillet Cookie

1¼ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour, like Bob’s Red Mill)
1 teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup old fashioned oats (I use Flahavan’s, Irish Oats or use gluten-free oats)
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar (I use Zulka)
½ cup peanut butter
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (I use Ghirardelli)
Mini Peanut Butter Cups (as many as you like!)

Optionals

Vanilla ice cream
Chocolate Syrup

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9-inch cast iron skillet with non-stick spray.
Combine flour, baking soda, salt, and oats together in a medium bowl and whisk together, set aside.
In a large bowl, using a mixer, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
Add in peanut butter, egg, and vanilla and mix together until well combined.
Add dry ingredients and chocolate chips to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
Press cookie dough into your prepared skillet, but leave a ½-inch space between dough and skillet edge to allow the dough to spread out.
Press peanut butter cups into dough, as many as you like, but don’t press them down deep, the cookie dough will rise, so you don’t want them sunken into the cookie.
Bake 25-35 minutes until an inserted toothpick comes out clean and golden brown. The last 10 minutes you might opt to place tin foil on top of your cookie if it looks like it’s browning too quickly.
Transfer from oven and serve warm, with vanilla ice cream and chocolate syrup.

Notes

Make sure after you press your cookie dough in the skillet, that it is not taller than the skillet, it will rise while baking. The deep dish baking skillets are really nice.
You can substitute flour for your favorite gluten-free flour as well.

Recipe adapted from Creme de la Crumb

Morena® Pure Cane Sugar by Zulka®, Flahavan’s Irish Oats also used in skillet cookie.