Skillet cookies, sometimes called skillet brownies or one-pan cookies, are a delicious treat that combines the best of cookies and brownies. Unlike traditional drop or slice-and-bake cookies, skillet cookies are baked together in one pan like a batch of brownies, which gives them a fudgy, chewy texture.
The great thing about skillet cookies is that the recipe yields a large batch all at once. However, like all cookies, they are best when fresh and warm from the oven. Fortunately, there are a few easy ways to reheat leftover skillet cookies and bring back that just-baked taste and texture.
Can you reheat skillet cookies?
Yes, you can absolutely reheat leftover skillet cookies! While they may not be quite as fudgy and soft as when they first came out of the oven, skillet cookies reheat surprisingly well. The keys are using the right reheating method and avoiding over-drying the cookies in the process.
Best ways to reheat skillet cookies
Here are a few recommended ways to warm up leftover skillet cookies so they taste great again:
- Microwave: Heat cookies in 10 second intervals until warmed through.
- Oven: Bake at 300°F for 4-6 minutes.
- Air fryer: Cook at 300°F for 3-5 minutes.
- Skillet: Heat over medium-low, adding a bit of milk or cream.
- Toaster oven: Toast at 300°F for 3-5 minutes.
Microwave Method
One of the fastest and easiest ways to reheat skillet cookies is in the microwave. This works best for reheating a smaller number of cookies rather than the whole pan.
To reheat in the microwave:
- Place 1-3 cookies on a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave for 10-20 seconds, checking frequently.
- Let sit for 30 seconds before eating so the center finishes heating.
- Repeat for additional cookies, adjusting cook time as needed.
Be careful not to microwave the cookies too long or they may become dried out. Reheating for short 10 second intervals allows better control over the process.
Tips for microwaving skillet cookies
- Use a lower power setting (50-70%) to prevent overcooking.
- Let cookies sit after microwaving so the heat distributes evenly.
- Place a damp paper towel over cookies to add moisture while heating.
- Drizzle cookies with milk before microwaving for extra moisture.
Oven Method
Reheating skillet cookies in the oven is ideal for larger quantities. While it takes longer than the microwave, the oven does a nice job crisping the outsides a bit while keeping the centers soft.
To reheat in the oven:
- Preheat oven to 300°F.
- Place cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
- Bake cookies for 4-6 minutes until warmed through.
- Let cookies cool slightly before serving.
Baking brings out the fudgy, chewy texture of skillet cookies. Keep an eye on them in the oven so they don’t dry out.
Tips for oven reheating
- Use a thermometer to check center – reheated to 105-110°F.
- Drizzle or brush cookies with milk or cream before baking for extra moisture.
- Wrap cookies in foil while baking to seal in softness.
- For crisper cookies, bake for the full 6 minutes.
Air Fryer Method
Air fryers are a great option for reheating skillet cookies. The hot circulated air crisps the outside while heating the interior. Follow these steps:
- Preheat air fryer to 300°F.
- Place cookies in air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 3-5 minutes, checking frequently.
- Let cool slightly before eating.
The air fryer reheats cookies evenly in just minutes. Adjust timing based on quantity and thickness.
Air Fryer Tips
- Spray or brush cookies with oil before air frying for extra crispiness.
- Flip cookies halfway through for even cooking.
- Add an extra minute for very thick skillet cookies.
- If cookies are drying out, mist with water before cooking.
Skillet Method
For the most authentic just-baked flavor, reheat skillet cookies right in the skillet they were originally baked in. This helps recreate the warm, gooey texture.
To reheat in the skillet:
- Heat the skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the cookies and heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
- For extra moisture, drizzle or mist the cookies with milk, cream, or water while reheating.
- Serve skillet cookies warm.
Be careful not to burn the cookies reheating them this way. Use a lower heat setting and keep an eye on them.
Skillet Reheating Tips
- Consider covering the skillet so steam helps soften the cookies.
- Stir or flip the cookies for even reheating.
- If cookies are dry, add a couple tablespoons of water or milk to the skillet.
- Add a pat of butter to the skillet for extra richness.
Toaster Oven Method
A toaster oven offers a small, quick-heating space perfect for reheating a few skillet cookies at a time. Here are the steps:
- Preheat toaster oven to 300°F.
- Place cookies on tray and toast for 3-5 minutes.
- Check frequently to avoid over-browning.
- Let cookies cool for a minute before serving.
The direct heat from the toaster oven gives the cookies a nice crunch. Adjust cook times based on your specific toaster oven.
Toaster Oven Tips
- Use the convection setting for hot air circulation.
- Place cookies close to heating element for crisping.
- Line the tray with foil or parchment paper for easy removal.
- Watch cookies closely so they don’t burn.
How to Store and Reheat Skillet Cookies
To get the best results reheating skillet cookies, you also need to store them properly. Here are some tips:
- Let cookies cool completely before storing to avoid condensation.
- Store in airtight container to keep cookies soft and moist.
- Add slice of bread to container to prevent cookies drying out.
- Refrigerate for 1-2 days maximum for best texture.
- Freeze cookies up to 3 months if not eating within a couple days.
- Double wrap cookies individually in plastic wrap if freezing.
- Thaw frozen cookies overnight in fridge before reheating.
Following proper storage methods will ensure your leftover skillet cookies reheat well and taste great.
Troubleshooting Reheating Issues
Sometimes reheating cookies doesn’t go as planned. Here are some common issues and how to avoid them:
Cookies are dry and hard
Dry, hard cookies usually result from overcooking. Try reheating at lower temperatures and checking often. Mist cookies with water or milk before heating to add moisture back.
Cookies are burnt
Burnt spots mean the cookies got too hot. Use shorter cook times and watch them closely. Lower heat works better than high.
Cookies are mushy
If your cookies are mushy or gooey inside, they likely needed more time to reheat fully. Cook them a minute or two longer.
Cookies are unevenly heated
Flipping and rotating while reheating can help cookies heat evenly. Also let them sit a minute after heating so the middle catches up.
Cookies lose their fudgy texture
To keep cookies fudgy, reheat them gently using lower heat. Adding moisture by misting or drizzling with milk or cream also helps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should skillet cookies be reheated?
Yes, skillet cookies reheat beautifully! While they are incredibly delicious fresh and warm, leftover cookies can be reheated and taste nearly as good using the right techniques.
Can you reheat skillet cookies in the microwave?
Absolutely! The microwave provides a quick and easy way to reheat a few skillet cookies at a time. Just be sure to heat them in short increments and let them rest afterwards so the centers finish cooking.
Is it better to reheat skillet cookies in the oven or microwave?
It depends on how many you are reheating. For 1-3 cookies, the microwave is faster and more convenient. For larger quantities, the oven does a nice job crisping the outsides and evenly heating the whole cookie.
Should you put foil over skillet cookies when reheating in oven?
Covering the cookies with foil while reheating in the oven can help seal in moisture and prevent them drying out. Just be sure to leave it loose or poke holes so steam can escape.
Can you reheat skillet cookies in air fryer?
Yes! An air fryer works great for reheating skillet cookies by crisping the outside and evenly heating the inside. Cook them at 300°F, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Is it OK to reheat skillet cookies in the skillet?
Absolutely! Reheating the cookies right in the skillet they were baked in helps recreate the fresh-from-the-oven taste and texture. Use medium-low heat and add a bit of milk or cream for extra moisture.
How long do reheated skillet cookies last?
Properly stored leftover skillet cookies will stay fresh for 1-2 days at room temperature or up to 1 month in the freezer. Reheated cookies are best eaten within a couple hours before quality starts declining.
Key Takeaways
- Skillet cookies reheat beautifully for an almost homemade taste when using the right methods.
- Effective reheating options include the microwave, oven, air fryer, skillet, and toaster oven.
- Cook gently using lower heat and frequent checking to avoid drying out.
- Mist or drizzle cookies with milk or cream before heating to add moisture.
- Let cookies rest after reheating so the heat evenly distributes.
- Proper storage between baking and reheating helps maintain cookie quality.
Conclusion
Skillet cookies are a great make-ahead dessert that reheats surprisingly well. While they won’t be quite as melt-in-your mouth as freshly baked, you can revive that soft, fudgy texture and flavor with the right reheating techniques. Whether you microwave individual cookies or reheat the whole pan in the oven, you’ll be able to once again enjoy the magic of warm skillet cookies on demand.