Name: Irresistible Hot Chocolate Cookies with Gooey Marshmallow Center
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (For richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.); 1 cup Sugar (Sweetens the cookies; white or brown sugar can be used.); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Adds depth and moisture; light or dark works equally well.); 1 large Egg (Binds ingredients together; replace with a flax egg for a vegan variation.); ¼ cup Milk (Any plant-based milk works for a dairy-free treat.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances the flavor; substitute with almond extract for a nutty twist.); 2 cups Flour (Provides structure; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.); ½ cup Powdered Hot Cocoa Mix (Infuses cookies with rich chocolate flavor; homemade mix can be used.); ¼ cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (For additional chocolate richness; dark cocoa enhances flavor.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (A leavening agent; baking powder can be used as an alternative.); ½ teaspoon Salt (Balances sweetness; consider reducing for lower sodium.); 1 cup Marshmallow Bits (Creates gooey centers; mini marshmallows can be substituted but may ooze.); 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (Adds chocolate chunks; feel free to swap for milk or dark chocolate chips.)

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As I pulled my first batch of Hot Chocolate Cookies from the oven, the rich aroma of chocolate enveloped my kitchen, instantly whisking me back to cozy winter nights with loved ones. These delightful cookies are not just a holiday treat; they effortlessly blend the deliciousness of hot cocoa with the comforting warmth of freshly baked cookies. Soft, chewy, and each filled with gooey marshmallow bits, they’re perfect for a quick indulgence or impressive cookie exchanges. Plus, the straightforward preparation makes them accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Curious about how to bring this sweet winter magic into your own home? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Hot Chocolate Cookies a must-try?

Winter Magic: Each bite of these Hot Chocolate Cookies delivers the nostalgic goodness of your favorite hot cocoa.

Easy Recipe: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, they’re perfect for bakers of all levels, making it a breeze to whip up a batch any day!

Gooey Centers: The luscious marshmallow center oozes delight, ensuring they’re a hit for cookie exchanges or cozy nights at home.

Endless Variations: Feeling adventurous? Try adding spices or substitute chocolate chips—like with my Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls for a unique twist!

Quick & Convenient: These cookies bake in just 10 minutes, making them a rapid go-to for satisfying sweet cravings, and they can be tucked into school lunches or holiday gift boxes.

Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves cookies, and these chewy, chocolatey bites topped off with extra chocolate will leave your friends and family begging for more!

Hot Chocolate Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to create magic in your kitchen with these delicious Hot Chocolate Cookies!

For the Cookie Dough

Butter – For richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
Sugar – Sweetens the cookies; you can use white sugar instead of brown sugar or vice versa.
Brown Sugar – Adds depth and moisture; light or dark brown sugar works equally well.
Egg – Binds ingredients together; replace with a flax egg for a vegan variation.
Milk – Contributes to a soft texture; any plant-based milk works for a dairy-free treat.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; substitute with almond extract for a nutty twist.
Flour – Provides structure; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Powdered Hot Cocoa Mix – Infuses your cookies with rich chocolate flavor; a homemade mix can be used as a substitute.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – For additional chocolate richness; dark cocoa powder can enhance the flavor.
Baking Soda – A leavening agent for rise; baking powder can be used as an alternative.
Salt – Balances the sweetness; consider reducing salt for a lower sodium content.

For the Filling

Marshmallow Bits – Creates those gooey centers; mini marshmallows can be substituted but may ooze out.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds delightful chocolate chunks; feel free to swap for milk or dark chocolate chips.

These ingredients will bring your Hot Chocolate Cookies to life, making them a delightful treat for any occasion!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Irresistible Hot Chocolate Cookies with Gooey Marshmallow Center

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup later. The aroma of melting chocolate and baking cookies will soon fill your kitchen, setting the stage for these delightful Hot Chocolate Cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter with both white and brown sugars. Using a handheld mixer or stand mixer, cream the mixture on medium speed until it’s light, fluffy, and creamy—about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air, which contributes to the cookies’ chewy texture.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, mix in one egg, milk, and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Continue to beat on medium speed until everything is well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl with a spatula as needed. This ensures your Hot Chocolate Cookies have a smooth and flavorful base.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add your flour, powdered hot cocoa mix, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt into the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined, taking care not to overmix, which could toughen the cookies. You want to see little specks of chocolate in the dough, hinting at the deliciousness to come.

Step 5: Fold in Marshmallow Bits and Chocolate Chips
With a spatula, gently fold in the marshmallow bits and semi-sweet chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step is where your Hot Chocolate Cookies get their gooey marshmallow center and decadent chocolate chunks, creating an irresistible contrast.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving 2 inches between each scoop to allow for spreading. The dough should be slightly rounded but not overly compact. This allows the Hot Chocolate Cookies to bake evenly, creating a soft and chewy texture.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the centers remain soft and slightly puffed. This is key for achieving the perfect chewy cookie. Remember, they will continue baking after being removed from the oven, so resist the urge to overbake!

Step 8: Add Extra Toppings
As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, gently press a few additional chocolate chips and marshmallow bits onto each cookie. This creates a beautiful, melty topping that enhances the presentation and flavor of your Hot Chocolate Cookies.

Step 9: Cool and Transfer
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes—this lets them set up a bit. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Letting them cool properly ensures that each gooey marshmallow center remains intact and ready for enjoyment!

How to Store and Freeze Hot Chocolate Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and chewy, perfect for a quick treat!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy warm, simply pop the frozen cookies in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or until heated through. They’ll be just as delightful as when freshly baked!

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Chocolate Cookies are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to savor their rich flavors even on your busiest days! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance; just ensure you cover it tightly to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze the cookie dough balls, and store them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply take them out, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time. This way, you’ll enjoy freshly baked Hot Chocolate Cookies with gooey centers whenever the craving strikes!

What to Serve with Decadent Hot Chocolate Cookies?

Indulging in these delightful cookies is just the beginning; let’s explore some perfect pairings to elevate your sweet experience.

Glass of Milk: A classic choice that balances the rich chocolate and marshmallow sweetness, providing a creamy contrast.
Hot Cocoa: Enhance the chocolate experience by serving with a warm mug of cocoa, topped with whipped cream or extra marshmallows.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and coolness perfectly complement the warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast that melts in your mouth.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits add a refreshing bite that cuts through the sweetness, making for a well-rounded dessert.
Chocolate Ganache Dip: Rich and velvety, drizzling or dipping cookies in ganache gives an elegant twist, amplifying that chocolate flavor.
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai perfectly contrast with the sweet richness of your Hot Chocolate Cookies, creating a cozy pairing for chilly evenings.

For a complete experience, consider combining a few of these delights for a cookie platter that truly sings with warmth and flavor!

Hot Chocolate Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to play around with these Hot Chocolate Cookies and customize them to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk for a delicious dairy-free option.
Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water) for a completely vegan treat.
Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful cookie!
White Chocolate Delight: Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate for a sweeter, creamier flavor.
Spiced Cookies: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, fragrant twist that enhances the chocolate flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts—like walnuts or pecans—for added crunch and a nutty flavor. They balance wonderfully with the chocolate.
Shortcut Brownies: For a quick twist, use brownie mix as your cookie base to create delightfully fudgy Hot Chocolate Cookies. Just follow the baking time indicated on the box and add marshmallow bits!
Seasonal Flair: Incorporate peppermint extract or crushed candy canes for a festive touch perfect for holiday gatherings or to spice up winter evenings. Consider pairing them with cozy beverages or even try these delicious Lemon Raspberry Cookies for a refreshing surprise in your cookie box!

Expert Tips for Hot Chocolate Cookies

Chill the Dough: For optimal flavor and texture, consider chilling the dough for up to 36 hours before baking. This step enhances the chocolatey goodness of your Hot Chocolate Cookies.
Watch the Baking Time: Avoid overbaking; cookies should be soft in the center when you take them out. They will continue to firm up while cooling on the baking sheet.
Marshmallow Choice: Use marshmallow bits instead of mini marshmallows, as the latter can ooze and create a messy situation in your cookies.
Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients! You can use gluten-free flour or plant-based milk without compromising the delightful taste of your Hot Chocolate Cookies.
Storage Tips: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 2 months to savor later!

Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for my Hot Chocolate Cookies?
Absolutely! For your Hot Chocolate Cookies, opt for room temperature butter to achieve a smooth creaminess. When choosing chocolate chips, look for high-quality semi-sweet ones for a richer flavor. The cocoa powder should be unsweetened; consider using dark cocoa for a deeper chocolate taste. Also, check the marshmallow bits, ensuring there are no clumps or discoloration, as fresher ingredients yield better results.

What are the best storage methods for Hot Chocolate Cookies?
You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain their chewy texture, avoid exposing them to air. For longer storage, freeze the cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months.

Can Hot Chocolate Cookies be frozen?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze Hot Chocolate Cookies! After baking, let them cool completely. Then, flash freeze them by placing the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet in the freezer until firm (about 1-2 hours). Once set, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, layering parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months, and you can warm them up in the microwave for that freshly-baked taste!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your Hot Chocolate Cookies spread excessively, double-check the butter temperature; it should be softened but not melted. Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before scooping can help them retain shape. Additionally, make sure you are measuring flour correctly—too little can lead to spreading. Remember, the key is to have a balanced dough!

Are Hot Chocolate Cookies suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! These cookies can be easily adapted for various dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, use margarine or coconut oil and any plant-based milk. You can create a vegan version by replacing the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes). If gluten-free is your goal, simply use a certified gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour.

How can I make Hot Chocolate Cookies with a different flavor profile?
Great idea! You can create a variety of flavors by adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg – just a teaspoon or so can elevate the warmth of the chocolate. You might also consider incorporating extracts like peppermint for a festive twist, or even orange zest for a refreshing counterpoint. Another fun twist is to swap out semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate or peanut butter chips for a unique taste!