Hot Cocoa Cookies Recipe: Decadent Marshmallow Bliss

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If you’re looking for a warm and cozy treat, then these Hot Cocoa Cookies are perfect for you! They combine the rich flavor of cocoa with delicious chocolate chips and gooey marshmallows. Whether it’s a chilly evening, a holiday party, or a fun after-school snack, these cookies are a delightful way to bring some cheer to your day. Plus, they are easy to make, making them a great option for beginner bakers.

Why You’ll Love These Hot Cocoa Cookies

These Hot Cocoa Cookies are an excellent choice for beginners because they are simple and offer a big payoff in flavor. The process involves just a few steps, and you don’t need any fancy equipment. The result is a warm, chocolaty dessert that feels special yet approachable. Each bite is filled with gooey marshmallows and rich chocolate, making this treat perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own!

How to Make Hot Cocoa Cookies

Making these Hot Cocoa Cookies involves mixing the ingredients, forming the cookies, and baking them until they are just right. You will whip up a dough that features butter, sugar, and cocoa powder, then add chocolate chips for extra sweetness. Once you bake them, you’ll top them with marshmallows that get all fluffy in the oven. Finally, a drizzle of melted chocolate completes this delightful dessert!

Ingredients

1 cup Butter (barely softened)
1 1/3 cups Brown Sugar
1/2 cup Sugar
2 large Eggs
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
2 1/2 cups Flour (for thicker cookies, may use 2 3/4 cups)
2/3 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
1 teaspoon Baking Soda
1 teaspoon Cornstarch
3/4 teaspoon Salt
2 cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
8 large Marshmallows (cut in half)
6 ounces Semi-Sweet Chocolate (melted for drizzling)
1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (optional)
1/2 to 3/4 cup Crushed Candy Canes (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
In a large bowl, cream together the barely softened butter, brown sugar, and regular sugar. Beat this mixture for 3-4 minutes until it is light and fluffy. Scrape the sides of the bowl halfway through to ensure everything is well mixed.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the bowl. If you’re using peppermint extract, add it now too. Mix for 1 more minute until well combined.
Add the cocoa powder, flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt. Mix together just until combined—don’t overmix! You want everything to blend smoothly, with no dry flour left.
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the sheet.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, just until the edges start to set.
Remove the cookies from the oven. Quickly press half of a marshmallow (cut side down) onto the center of each cookie. Return the cookies to the oven for 2 minutes, or until the marshmallows puff slightly.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate at 50% power in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until fully melted. You may want to add 1-2 teaspoons of oil to make the chocolate easier to drizzle.
Drizzle the cooled cookies with the melted chocolate. You can use a piping bag, a spoon, or a knife for this step. For a festive touch, sprinkle crushed candy canes on the drizzle before it sets.

Hot Cocoa Cookies Recipe: Decadent Marshmallow Bliss

Enjoying Your Hot Cocoa Cookies

These cookies are delightful when served warm right out of the oven. They are perfect for cozy nights with a cup of hot chocolate or as a sweet treat after dinner. You can also present them at holiday gatherings, parties, or bake sales. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of ice cream or a chilly glass of milk.

Storing Your Cookies for Freshness

To keep your Hot Cocoa Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay good for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to savor them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Just let them thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Essential Tips for Cookie Success

Don’t Overmix: When adding the dry ingredients, mix just until the flour no longer appears dry. Overmixing can make your cookies tough.
Check the Marshmallows: When you place the marshmallows on the cookies, keep an eye on them while they puff. They should not melt completely; just enough to soften and fluff.
Baking Time: Every oven is different, so check your cookies a minute or two before the recommended baking time. They should look set on the edges but still soft in the center.

Fun Variations to Try

Peppermint Twist: Add more peppermint extract to enhance the flavor, especially great for holiday celebrations.
Different Chips: Experiment with white chocolate chips or swap in chocolate chunks for a different texture.
Nutty Flavor: Fold in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for an extra crunch.

FAQs

Can I freeze the Hot Cocoa Cookies?

Yes, you can freeze these cookies! Just place them in a freezer-safe container, separating them with layers of parchment paper. They will keep for about 2 months. To serve, let them thaw at room temperature.

What can I use instead of butter?

If you need a substitute, you can use margarine or a dairy-free butter alternative. Just ensure it’s at a similar temperature—barely softened—when you start mixing.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies are done when the edges are slightly firm, but the centers are still soft. They will continue to cook a bit while they cool on the baking sheet.

Wrap Up Your Baking Adventure

These Hot Cocoa Cookies turn an ordinary day into something special with their rich flavors and cozy feel. Baking them is an enjoyable experience, and they’re easy to make even for beginners. With chocolate and marshmallows in every bite, you’re sure to feel confident in your baking abilities. Enjoy this sweet treat with loved ones or keep them all to yourself—it’s a delicious way to warm up any occasion!

Reflect on your experience with these Hot Cocoa Cookies, and let the warm, chocolatey aroma fill your home. You did a great job baking, and you might even consider trying a fun variation next time or exploring more beginner-friendly recipes!

Hot Cocoa Cookies Recipe