The Skillet Cookie That Changed Our Campfire Nights

There’s something magical about ending a long travel day with gooey chocolate, warm cookie dough, and the smell of toasted sugar in the air. We used to reach for store-bought treats around the campfire—until the night we tried baking a skillet cookie right on the flames. Game. Changer.

Since then, this one-pan wonder has become our go-to dessert on the road. It’s easy, shareable, and outrageously satisfying. Whether you’re camping in the wild, glamping in comfort, or hosting friends in your backyard, this skillet cookie turns simple moments into sweet memories.

Ready to discover why we never travel without our cast-iron pan anymore? Let’s bake some joy.

This is the kind of cookie that draws everyone in—no matter the age, no matter the setting. It’s golden, gooey, crispy on the edges, and melts in your mouth at the center. And the best part? You only need one skillet with lid to make it happen. Fewer dishes, more joy.

Ingredients:

1 stick unsalted butter (we love using European-style butter for extra richness)
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or go bold with chocolate chunks)
Optional: A pinch of flaky sea salt, for that gourmet touch

Instructions:

Melt butter in an 8–10-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat. Once melted, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Stir in both sugars until the mixture looks glossy and smooth.
Add the egg and vanilla. Mix until fully combined.
Fold in the flour, baking soda, and salt. Don’t overmix—just enough to bring the dough together.
Stir in your chocolate chips. Save a handful to press on top before baking.
Smooth the dough evenly across the skillet. Add that extra sprinkle of chocolate and sea salt.

How to Bake It (Wherever You Are)

Whether you’re deep in the woods or in a tiny camper kitchen, this cookie’s got your back. Here’s how to make it wherever your adventure takes you:

🔥 Campfire Method

Place the skillet on a grate over hot coals (not direct flames).
Cover loosely with foil or a lid to trap the heat.
Rotate every few minutes for even baking.
Bake for 20–30 minutes. Peek to avoid burning.

🔥 Charcoal Grill Method

Place the skillet on indirect heat (away from coals).
Close the lid and bake 18–22 minutes.
Keep vents half open to control the temp.

🔥 Gas Stove in Campervan or RV

Use low-medium heat with a diffuser plate if possible.
Cover the skillet with foil or a pan lid.
Check every few minutes to prevent the bottom from overbaking.

🔥 Oven at Home or in a Cabin

Bake at 175°C (350°F) for 18–22 minutes.
For a gooey center, pull it while the middle still jiggles.

Gear That Makes It Easier:

Cast iron skillet (we use the Lodge 10.25″ Cast Iron Skillet—it’s road-tested and tough as nails)
Heat diffuser plate (for stovetop baking without burning)
Dutch oven lid lifter or campfire gloves if you’re using open fire
Reusable silicone spatula to scoop out every last warm bite

Pro tip: Pre-mix your dry ingredients in a silicone storage bag so you’re always five minutes from cookie magic—anywhere.

This is more than dessert—it’s an experience. Pair it with coffee under the stars or top with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream from your portable cooler. Just try not to eat the whole thing in one go.

Next up: Want to remix your skillet cookie for different moods and cravings? Let’s explore delicious new ideas… 🍓🍌🍫👇

More Skillet Cookie Ideas (Because One Is Never Enough)

Once you’ve made one skillet cookie, it’s hard to stop. The crispy edges, melty center, and shareable vibe make it the ultimate dessert-on-the-road. But here’s where it gets really fun—you can switch things up depending on your mood, the season, or what’s in your travel pantry.

🍫 S’mores Skillet Cookie

Classic campfire vibes in every bite.

Here’s how:

Make the base dough as usual.
Swap half the chocolate chips for milk chocolate chunks.
Stir in ½ cup crushed graham crackers.
Press the dough into your skillet and top with mini marshmallows.
Bake until marshmallows puff and brown—if using an oven or grill, broil for the last 2 minutes.
Let cool for a few minutes (if you can wait), then dive in.

Bonus gear: Keep marshmallows and chocolate stored in silicone zip bags to avoid sticky camp bags.

🍌 Banana Bread Cookie

Moist, rich, and full of comfort with a chocolatey twist.

Here’s how:

Make the base dough, but reduce brown sugar to ⅓ cup.
Mash 1 overripe banana and mix it in with the egg and vanilla.
Stir in ½ teaspoon cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg.
Fold in ½ cup dark chocolate chips and/or ¼ cup chopped walnuts.
Bake 20–25 minutes until golden and set at the edges.

Pro tip: This one also works well in muffin tins if you want individual travel-sized portions.

🍓 Berry White Chocolate Cookie

Bright, fruity, and soft—like a cookie met a summer pie.

Here’s how:

Prepare the base dough.
Gently fold in ½ cup chopped strawberries or raspberries (fresh or frozen).
Add ½ cup white chocolate chips.
Bake as usual, but check a few minutes early—berries add moisture.
Cool for 10–15 minutes before serving so the cookie sets.

Keep berries chilled in your travel cooler with ice packs if you’re off-grid for a few days.

☕ Espresso Cookie for Two

Moody mornings + chocolate = magic.

Here’s how:

Make the base dough.
Add 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder or finely ground coffee to the sugar mix.
Use dark chocolate chips for extra depth.
Sprinkle raw or coarse sugar over the top before baking.
Bake and enjoy warm with a mug of your favorite brew.

Serving idea: Cut it in half, grab two forks, and eat it straight from the skillet under a blanket.

🌱 Vegan Skillet Cookie

No eggs, no dairy—just chewy, gooey goodness.

Here’s how:

Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water. Let it sit 5 minutes to thicken.
Use this instead of the egg in the base dough.
Swap butter for vegan butter or coconut oil.
Use dairy-free chocolate chips.
Bake as usual—slightly longer if needed for a crispy edge.

Want it extra gooey? Add a splash of plant-based milk to loosen the dough before baking.

Let’s Talk Toppings

Your cookie, your rules. Try these joyful extras for next-level deliciousness:

A scoop of salted caramel gelato on top
Drizzle of nut butter (almond, peanut, or even tahini!)
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt for that bakery feel
Crushed pretzels or potato chips for a salty crunch surprise

Want to keep your toppings fresh on the go? We stash our favorites in mini airtight containers—perfect for van life and picnics.

Next up: Want to bake smarter, not harder? Let’s explore some clever prep and packing tips to enjoy skillet cookies anytime—no matter where the road leads. 👇

Prep & Packing Tips for Skillet Cookie Success (Anywhere)

Skillet cookies are magic, but that magic multiplies when you’ve prepped ahead. Whether you’re whipping one up after a beach hike, a chilly mountain stroll, or a cozy night in your campervan, a little planning turns cookie dreams into reality in minutes.

🔄 Pre-Mix Your Dry Ingredients

Mix the dry stuff (flour, baking soda, salt) before your trip and stash it in reusable silicone bags. Label them with the recipe name and any “just add” notes. This saves space, time, and the risk of flour explosions in your drawers.

We love: Stasher Bags—durable, eco-friendly, and easy to rinse out on the road.

🧈 Go Travel-Friendly with Ingredients

Some ingredients travel better than others. Here’s how we pack smart:

Use mini airtight containers for brown sugar and chocolate chips—they won’t clump or melt.
Butter? Pack it in a small insulated cooler and wrap in parchment to prevent mess.
Eggs? Crack them ahead of time and store in a jar or bottle (use within a couple days).
Vanilla extract? Pop a tiny bottle in your spice kit—you’ll want it for pancakes too.

🔥 Campfire Baking Tips

Baking over an open flame feels wild and satisfying—but it needs finesse:

Use a cast iron lid or cover with foil to trap heat like an oven.
Turn the skillet often for even baking.
Raise the pan slightly above the coals to avoid burning the bottom.
Let the cookie rest before serving—campfire heat lingers!

Extra win: Pack a lid lifter or grill gloves if your fire setup gets hot fast.

🛻 Van Life & RV Cookie Hacks

No oven? No problem. Try this stovetop trick:

Place your skillet over low heat with a heat diffuser plate (spreads heat evenly).
Cover with a pan lid or foil.
Rotate every few minutes and check the bottom with a spatula.
Done when the edges are crisp and the center is soft but set.

Bonus tip: The cookie continues to cook after heat is off—use that to your gooey advantage.

🧼 Easy Cleanup After the Cookie Craze

Let the skillet cool before washing.
Wipe it with a paper towel or rinse with warm water only (no soap).
Dry thoroughly and rub with a bit of cast iron oil to keep it seasoned.

Traveling with kids or messy cookie monsters? Bring a compact silicone scrubber for a quick cleanup without scratching your gear.

Final Thoughts: The Joy of Baking Wherever You Roam

There’s something about baking a warm, gooey cookie in a single skillet that feels like pure magic. Maybe it’s the crackle of the fire, the way chocolate melts into the dough, or the laughter that happens when everyone grabs a spoon and digs in together.

These aren’t just desserts. They’re memory-makers. Whether you’re camping under the stars, parked by the sea, or cozied up in your kitchen at home, skillet cookies turn everyday moments into something unforgettable.

Try the classic. Twist it your way. Share it with someone you love—or keep the spoon to yourself (no judgment here).

And if you’ve made it this far, you deserve a cookie. ✨

Want more travel-friendly joy in your life? Save this post so you can bake on your next adventure—and don’t forget to grab your favorite cast iron skillet and storage bags before your next trip. They’re small additions with big payoffs.

Happy baking, and even happier exploring. 🍪🌍