Hot Chocolate Cookies, Love From The Oven

Ever wondered what would happen if your favorite winter drink transformed into a delectable cookie? That’s exactly what these hot chocolate cookies deliver! Rich, chocolatey, and topped with gooey marshmallows, these treats capture the essence of a steaming mug of hot cocoa in each bite. Perfect for Holiday Neighbor Treats or Christmas Dessert Ideas, these cookies will become your new winter favorite.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ⅔ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon hot chocolate mix
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1½ cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• Additional chocolate chips and marshmallows for topping

Substitutions: Use dark cocoa powder for a richer flavor. For dairy sensitivities, plant-based butter works wonderfully. The hot chocolate mix can be regular or premium drinking chocolate – choose your favorite brand for a personalized flavor profile.

Timing

Prep time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

These hot chocolate cookies save you about 20 minutes compared to traditional recipes that require longer chilling times. Perfect for when you need Holiday Desserts Christmas Cookies in a hurry!

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This extended creaming time incorporates air for perfectly textured cookies. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla, mixing well after each addition.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, hot chocolate mix, baking soda, and salt. Pro tip: sift the cocoa powder to prevent lumps for the smoothest Christmas Cookies Homemade experience.

Step 3: Form Cookie Dough

Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips and mini marshmallows by hand. Avoid overmixing for the perfect texture.

Step 4: Chill and Bake

Chill dough for 30 minutes. Roll into 1½-inch balls and place on parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. While still warm, press additional marshmallows and chocolate chips on top for that signature hot chocolate look.

Nutritional Information

Per cookie (based on 24 cookies):

• Calories: 245
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 1.5g
• Sugars: 22g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For a lighter version of these hot chocolate cookies, try these swaps:

• Replace half the butter with applesauce
• Use coconut sugar instead of refined sugar
• Substitute whole wheat pastry flour for all-purpose flour
• For gluten-free options, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour
• Vegan version: Use flax eggs (1 Tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 Tbsp water per egg) and dairy-free chocolate chips

Serving Suggestions

Elevate these Easy Holiday Baking Recipes with creative presentations:

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Create a cookie sandwich with peppermint frosting
• Pair with actual hot chocolate for the ultimate winter treat
• Arrange on a holiday platter with candy canes and chocolate-dipped pretzels for an impressive Baked Goods Christmas display

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overbaking: Remove cookies when edges are set but centers still look slightly underdone
2. Skipping chilling time: This results in flat, spread-out cookies
3. Adding marshmallows too early: Incorporate them last to prevent melting and disappearing
4. Using cold ingredients: Room temperature eggs and butter create the best texture

Storing Tips for the Recipe

These Yummy Christmas Desserts stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for 4-5 days. For longer storage, freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months – perfect for surprise holiday guests! To reheat, microwave for 10 seconds for that fresh-baked warmth.

Conclusion

These hot chocolate cookies perfectly capture the cozy essence of winter in a delightful treat. Whether you’re making Cookies For The Holidays as gifts or serving them at your Christmas gathering, they’re sure to impress. Try the recipe today and tag us in your creations on social media – we’d love to see how yours turned out!

FAQs

Can I make these cookies without marshmallows?
Absolutely! You can substitute white chocolate chips or skip them entirely for a classic chocolate cookie.

Why did my marshmallows disappear during baking?
If added to the dough before baking, marshmallows often melt away. Try pressing them into the cookies during the last 2 minutes of baking or immediately after removing from the oven.

How can I make these cookies more festive for Christmas?
Add 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract to the dough and sprinkle with crushed candy canes after baking.

Can I use hot chocolate mix with marshmallows in it?
Yes! This adds extra marshmallow flavor. Just be aware it may increase the sweetness slightly.

Do these cookies ship well for holiday gifts?
They ship beautifully when packed carefully. For best results, place parchment paper between layers and use a sturdy container with padding.