If you love cookies and enjoy the great outdoors, you might be wondering if you can switch things up by making cookies on a Blackstone griddle. The idea of cooking your favorite dessert on this versatile outdoor grill opens up a world of culinary possibilities. In this article, we will explore how to make cookies on a Blackstone griddle, the benefits of griddle cooking, tips for perfect cookies, and some delicious recipe ideas that will surely impress your friends and family.
Why Use a Blackstone Griddle for Cookies?
The Blackstone griddle is known for its large cooking surface and even heat distribution, making it an excellent choice for various cooking methods. But why should you consider making cookies on it? Here are some compelling reasons:
1. Versatility
The Blackstone griddle is a multi-functional cooking appliance. Not only can you grill meats and vegetables, but you can also bake or sauté desserts like cookies. This means you can enjoy a variety of dishes without needing to switch between different kitchen appliances.
2. Outdoor Cooking
Everyone loves the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the air. When you use a Blackstone griddle outdoors, you enhance this experience and create a perfect ambiance for cooking. It’s also a fantastic way to enjoy the sunshine or host a gathering.
3. Quick Cooking Time
Because the griddle heats up quickly and maintains a consistent temperature, cookies can bake more rapidly than in a traditional oven. This makes it easier to whip up a batch of cookies on short notice.
Getting Started: Preparing Your Blackstone Griddle
Before you start baking cookies on your Blackstone griddle, it’s essential to prepare your cooking surface properly. Following these steps will ensure a smooth cooking experience.
1. Clean the Griddle
Always begin by ensuring your griddle is clean. Any residue from previous cooking can affect the taste of your cookies. Use a spatula or scraper to remove any leftover food particles, followed by cleaning it with a paper towel and a bit of cooking oil.
2. Preheat the Griddle
It’s crucial to preheat your griddle before adding your cookie dough. For cookies, you generally want the surface temperature to be around 350°F to 375°F. You can use an infrared thermometer for accuracy.
3. Adjust the Heat Settings
Most Blackstone griddles come with adjustable burners. You might want to set your burner to medium heat. Monitor the temperature closely since griddles can heat unevenly.
Cookie Recipes for the Blackstone Griddle
Now that your griddle is prepped and ready, it’s time to dive into some delightful cookie recipes perfect for griddle cooking. We’ve selected a couple of classics that are sure to be crowd favorites.
1. Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat your Blackstone griddle to 350°F.
- In a bowl, mix together the flour and baking soda; set aside.
- In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until smooth.
- Beat in the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time.
- Gradually blend the flour mixture into the wet ingredients.
- Stir in the chocolate chips.
- Use a cookie scoop to drop spoonfuls of dough onto the preheated griddle, leaving space between each cookie.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Carefully flip them with a spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from the griddle and let them cool on a wire rack.
2. Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your Blackstone griddle to about 350°F.
- In a bowl, mix all ingredients until smooth.
- Use a spoon to form small balls of dough and place them on the griddle.
- Press down on each ball with a fork to create a crisscross pattern.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until the cookies are set.
- Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until beautifully golden.
- Let them cool on a wire rack before indulging in your delicious cookies.
Tips for Perfect Griddle Cookies
Making cookies on a Blackstone griddle is an exciting and fun way to bake. However, a few tips can help elevate your results:
1. Use Parchment Paper
To keep your cookies from sticking, consider placing a piece of parchment paper on the griddle before adding your dough. This added layer can also promote even baking.
2. Monitor Cooking Time
Griddles can cook baked goods more quickly than traditional ovens. Stay close and check your cookies a little earlier than the standard baking time to avoid burning.
3. Practice Makes Perfect
If you’re new to baking cookies on a griddle, don’t be discouraged by a few mishaps. Use each attempt as a learning experience. Adjust cooking times, heat, and other variables to suit your preferences better.
4. Experiment with Flavors
Feel free to get creative with your cookie recipes. Add nuts, dried fruits, or even flavored extracts to customize your cookies. The Blackstone griddle is versatile, letting you evolve traditional recipes into something uniquely yours.
Conclusion
Now you have the knowledge and confidence to tackle cookie making on your Blackstone griddle. The ability to produce delicious cookies outdoors adds a creative twist to your baking routine. By following the steps above, you can enjoy the fun of baking while relishing the fresh air and sunshine.
No longer just for burgers and pancakes, your Blackstone griddle is now a potential dessert powerhouse. So gather your ingredients, fire up the griddle, and indulge in a sweet treat that’s a little outside the kitchen box. Happy Baking!
1. Can you actually make cookies on a Blackstone griddle?
Yes, you can make cookies on a Blackstone griddle! This versatile cooking appliance is not just for meats and vegetables; it can also be used for baking. The even heat distribution of the griddle allows for a unique cooking method that can produce deliciously baked cookies if done correctly.
To get started, you’ll want to prepare your cookie dough as you normally would. Once the griddle is preheated, you can drop spoonfuls of dough directly onto the surface. Keep an eye on the cookies while they cook, as they may require a slightly different cooking time compared to traditional baking. With practice, you can achieve perfectly baked cookies on your griddle.
2. Do I need to adjust the temperature when baking cookies on the griddle?
Yes, adjusting the temperature is essential when baking cookies on a Blackstone griddle. Generally, a setting around 350°F is ideal, mimicking the temperature of a conventional oven. It’s crucial to monitor the griddle’s surface temperature using an infrared thermometer to ensure that it doesn’t get too hot, which can cause the cookies to burn.
It’s also a good idea to keep the griddle covered while baking, as this will help retain heat and promote even cooking. If you find that the cookies are browning too quickly on the bottom, try reducing the heat slightly or moving the cookies to a cooler area of the griddle for more even baking.
3. What type of cookies work best on a griddle?
When it comes to making cookies on a Blackstone griddle, certain types perform better than others. For instance, thicker cookies like chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin tend to hold their shape nicely and cook evenly. Avoid making very thin cookies, as they may spread too much or become overly crispy on the griddle.
Drop cookies are generally the best choice and are easy to portion out. Just remember to space them apart enough since they might expand slightly during cooking. You can even experiment with different dough recipes, but thicker varieties are always a safe bet for griddles.
4. Should I use oil or grease the griddle before cooking cookies?
Yes, applying a light coating of oil or cooking spray on the Blackstone griddle is recommended before baking your cookies. This will prevent the cookies from sticking to the surface and help them cook more evenly. Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil, or a non-stick cooking spray for added convenience.
However, be cautious not to over-oil the surface, as too much grease can lead to greasy baked goods. A thin, even layer will suffice and will help in achieving a nice golden-brown color on the bottom of your cookies.
5. How long do cookies take to cook on a Blackstone griddle?
Cookies typically cook for about 8 to 12 minutes on a Blackstone griddle, similar to traditional baking times. However, the exact cooking duration may vary depending on the type of cookie dough and the griddle’s heat settings. It’s crucial to watch the cookies closely as they approach the end of the cooking time.
You can check if the cookies are done by looking for a golden-brown color on the edges. If needed, you can also use a toothpick inserted in the center to test for doneness. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, your cookies are ready to be removed.
6. Can I bake multiple batches of cookies on the griddle?
Yes, you can bake multiple batches of cookies on your Blackstone griddle, but it requires some planning and timing. Once the first batch is cooked, simply scrape off any residual cookie bits and reapply a light coating of oil if needed before adding your next batch. This will help maintain the quality and prevent sticking.
Keep in mind that the griddle may retain some heat after cooking the first batch, so monitor the temperature closely to ensure even baking for subsequent batches. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly for the later batches, especially if the griddle is still very hot.
7. Are there any tips for cleaning the griddle after making cookies?
Cleaning the Blackstone griddle after making cookies is essential for maintaining its longevity and performance. Start by allowing the griddle to cool down slightly, but it’s important to clean it while it’s still warm. Using a spatula, gently scrape off any cooked-on bits of cookie dough to prevent them from hardening.
Once the stubborn residues are removed, you can use a scraper or grill brush along with warm soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge to wipe down the surface. Avoid using metal scrubbers that could scratch the surface. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a clean cloth to keep your griddle in top condition for future baking adventures.