Hot Chocolate Cookies are the perfect treat for cozy evenings or holiday gatherings. These delightful cookies combine the comforting flavors of rich chocolate and fluffy marshmallows with a soft, chewy texture that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to create mouthwatering cookies that everyone will love.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
Why Make This Hot Chocolate Cookies
Hot Chocolate Cookies capture the essence of a classic wintertime drink in a chewy, satisfying cookie form. Their delicious chocolate richness combined with gooey marshmallows offers an irresistible sweet treat. These cookies are not just great for special occasions; they are perfect for after-school snacks, dessert for family dinners, or simply to enjoy with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. Plus, they fill your kitchen with an inviting chocolate aroma that’s hard to resist!
How to Make Hot Chocolate Cookies
Making Hot Chocolate Cookies is a straightforward process that involves mixing together simple ingredients. The result is a delightful treat that’s sure to warm hearts!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly.
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Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. This should take about 1–2 minutes.
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Step 3: Adding Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well blended. The mixture should be light in color and creamy in texture.
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Step 4: Combining Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps distribute the leavening agent evenly, leading to better cookie texture.
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Step 5: Mixing Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Make sure not to overmix as this can lead to tough cookies.
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Step 6: Adding Chocolate and Marshmallows
Fold in the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
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Step 7: Shaping Cookies
Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
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Step 8: Baking
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set. The centers may look slightly soft; they will firm up as they cool.
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Step 9: Cooling
Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up without becoming overly hard.
How to Serve Hot Chocolate Cookies
Serve these delicious cookies warm, alongside a glass of cold milk or a cozy cup of hot chocolate for a delightful pairing. For an extra special touch, drizzle some melted chocolate on top before serving, or sprinkle with a little sea salt to accentuate the flavors.
How to Store Hot Chocolate Cookies
Store your Hot Chocolate Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh for a longer time, consider freezing them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Just remember to let them cool completely before packing them away.
Expert Tips for Perfect Hot Chocolate Cookies
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t Skip the Chilling: If you have time, chilling the cookie dough for 30 minutes can help prevent spreading and enhance the flavor.
- Mind Your Bake Time: Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time; you want a soft center that’s set at the edges.
- Balance Flavors: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar slightly or add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Mint Chocolate Version: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough for a refreshing twist.
- Nutty Delight: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
- S’mores Style: Use graham cracker crumbs in place of some flour and substitute chocolate bars for the chips, adding more mini marshmallows.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use semi-sweet chocolate chips?
Yes! You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate chips based on your preference. -
What if I don’t have mini marshmallows?
You can chop regular marshmallows into smaller pieces or omit them altogether. The cookies will still be delicious! -
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, refrigerate it for up to 3 days, and bake them when you’re ready. -
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for set edges and a soft-looking center. They will firm up as they cool. -
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes! Feel free to adjust the sugars to your taste, but keep in mind that sugar also affects the texture.
Conclusion
Hot Chocolate Cookies are a wonderful merge of rich chocolate flavors and gooey marshmallow goodness that are bound to please anyone who takes a bite. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or shared with family and friends, they bring the joys of a classic hot chocolate in cookie form. So go ahead, treat yourself to this delightful recipe and create sweet memories that will warm your heart!
