Name: Indulge in Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: ½ cup Unsalted Butter (softened); ½ cup Granulated Sugar; ½ cup Brown Sugar (light or dark); 2 large Eggs; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (optional); 1½ cups All-Purpose Flour; ⅓ cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (do not substitute); ½ teaspoon Baking Soda; ¼ teaspoon Salt (balances sweetness); 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (can substitute with dark or milk chocolate); 1 cup Mini Marshmallows (or regular marshmallows chopped); optional Crushed Graham Crackers (for topping)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of melting chocolate and sweet marshmallows swirled around me like a warm hug on a chilly day, instantly transporting me back to those cozy winter nights with a steaming mug of hot cocoa. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows, an easy-to-bake dessert that brings that same nostalgic warmth right to your oven. Not only are these cookies beginner-friendly, but they also come together in under 30 minutes—perfect for satisfying that sweet craving or impressing last-minute guests. Each bite reveals a delightful chewiness paired with gooey pockets of chocolate and marshmallow bliss. Who wouldn’t want a cozy little treat like this? Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let’s get baking!

Why not indulge in nostalgia?

Decadent Delight: These Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows offer a rich, comforting flavor that reminds you of childhood treats, making them irresistible to cookie lovers.

Quick & Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up effortlessly — perfect for busy days or unexpected guests.

Chewy Goodness: Expect a crispy edge with a soft, fudgy center, creating a delightful texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to customize by swapping chocolate types or adding nuts for that perfect twist. Whether enjoyed on their own or alongside a cup of hot cocoa, these cookies are sure to please!

Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings, these cookies make the ideal dessert for parties — they’re hard to resist! So, why not grab a batch of these amazing cookies and maybe pair them with a Chocolate Banana Protein smoothie for a delightful snack?

Hot Chocolate Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter – Provides fat for tenderness and flavor; substitute with margarine or softened coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and aids in spreading; its fine crystals create air pockets for a crispy edge.
• Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and caramel undertone, essential for a chewy texture; feel free to use light or dark brown sugar interchangeably.
• Large Eggs – Act as a binder for the dough, adding richness.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavors with a sweet note; optional but recommended for that extra warmth.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; accurate measurement is key for ideal texture.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Delivers the deep chocolate flavor we all love; do not substitute with sweetened cocoa.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to give cookies a light texture.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances chocolate flavors; a must-have even in sweet recipes.

For the Mix-Ins
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds rich pockets of melted chocolate; can be swapped for dark or milk chocolate chips based on taste.
• Mini Marshmallows – Provides gooey sweetness; regular-sized marshmallows can work if chopped into smaller pieces.
• Crushed Graham Crackers (optional) – Sprinkled on top for a crunchy, s’mores-like texture; a delightful option if you’re looking for that extra flair.

Perfectly prepared, these Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows will satisfy every cookie craving and transport you back to the warmth of cozy winter nights. Enjoy baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This simple preparation step will set your kitchen up for success as you bake these delightful Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of brown sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is crucial for aerating the dough, which leads to tender cookies, so be sure to achieve that creamy texture before moving on.

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Add in 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully blended. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. This step not only binds the dough but also infuses your Hot Chocolate Cookies with warm, comforting flavor notes, making your baking experience even more delightful.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This ensures an even distribution of the dry ingredients and helps to prevent clumps. Once sifted, gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate and Marshmallows
Gently fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup of mini marshmallows into the cookie dough. Use a spatula to make sure both the chocolate and marshmallows are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This step is crucial for achieving that gooey center and pockets of sweetness in each bite of your Hot Chocolate Cookies.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows for even spreading while baking. If you desire an added crunch, this is a great time to sprinkle some crushed graham crackers on top before baking for that s’mores flavor enhancement.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies—you’re looking for crisp edges and slightly underbaked centers, which will create that luscious, chewy texture that makes these Hot Chocolate Cookies irresistible.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows them to firm up slightly. Afterward, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, where they will continue to develop their delicious texture, ready for you to enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows are a fantastic solution for busy weeknights, allowing you to prepare ahead for that sweet craving! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Just mix the dough and scoop it onto a baking sheet, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the dough balls directly from the fridge into the preheated oven, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time for even results. To maintain that incredible chewiness, be sure not to overmix the dough and keep an eye on the baking time. With this prep, you can enjoy warm, gooey cookies with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Hot Chocolate Cookies

Airtight Storage: Keep your Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their chewy texture and delightful flavor.

Freezer Friendly: To keep cookies fresh for longer, freeze them for up to 3 months. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Thawing Tips: To enjoy frozen cookies, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For a cozy treat, warm them briefly in the microwave.

Upgrading Flavor: If desired, reheat cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to refresh their gooey marshmallow goodness before serving.

Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows

Get ready to add your own twist to these delightful cookies and make them uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Use margarine or coconut oil instead of butter for a creamy, non-dairy treat. Your friends will hardly notice the difference!
Nutty Crunch: Stir in crushed almonds or walnuts for an added crunch that beautifully complements the soft texture of the cookies. Give your classic cookie a delicious upgrade.
Flavored Extracts: Add peppermint or almond extract instead of vanilla for a refreshing or nutty flavor twist. This small change can transport your taste buds to a whole new world.
Different Chocolate Types: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips to create a fun variety. You’ll discover new favorites in no time!
S’mores Inspired: Top your cookies with crushed graham crackers and a drizzle of chocolate before baking for a delicious s’mores version — gooey perfection!
Adjust the Sweetness: Use less sugar or substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or agave for a lighter cookie without sacrificing flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a subtle heat that pairs beautifully with chocolate. This will delight adventurous taste buds and make your cookies truly memorable.
Chocolate Chunk Style: Instead of chips, use chopped chocolate bars for rich, melty pockets throughout your cookies. It will elevate your cookie experience with a luxurious bite!

Feel free to experiment with these variations for your Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows, and don’t forget to enjoy a cozy cup of hot cocoa to accompany them! Looking for more chocolate inspiration? Check out these delightful treats: Chocolate Chip Cookies and an indulgent No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake that would complement your baking journey perfectly!

What to Serve with Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows

As you indulge in the delightful sweetness of these cookies, consider complementing them with perfect pairings that elevate your cozy experience.

Rich Hot Chocolate: A steaming mug of hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and extra marshmallows makes for the ultimate nostalgic duo to share warmth and sweetness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, chewy cookies, creating a delightful melt-in-your-mouth flavor explosion.
Fresh Berries: A side of fresh raspberries or strawberries brightens the palate, balancing the richness of the cookies with a burst of fruity zing.
Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy almond or hazelnut biscotti adds a lovely texture and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolatey goodness of the cookies.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices of a chai latte complement the sweetness of the cookies, creating an inviting beverage that is cozy and comforting.
Soft Whipped Cream: A dollop of softly whipped cream adds a luxurious finish to each bite, enhancing creaminess while accentuating the cookie’s flavor profile.

Pair your hot chocolate cookies with these delightful options, and watch your treat time transform into a heartwarming experience that brings everyone together!

Expert Tips for Hot Chocolate Cookies

Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature for optimal mixing, which helps achieve a light and fluffy dough.

Don’t Overmix: When combining the flour and wet ingredients, mix until just combined to prevent tough cookies.

Gooey Centers: Err on the side of slightly underbaking your cookies for that perfect chewy texture. They will firm up as they cool.

Spacing Matters: Leave enough space between cookie dough balls on the baking sheet to allow for spreading while baking, ensuring even texture throughout each Hot Chocolate Cookie.

Mix-In Choices: Feel free to get creative with different chocolate chip varieties or add-ins like nuts to personalize your cookies!

Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right ripeness for the ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best results, use unsalted butter that is softened but not melted. Fresh eggs help bind the cookies nicely. When selecting marshmallows, look for ones that are soft and plump—if they have any hard edges or are overly sticky, they might have gone stale.

How should I store Hot Chocolate Cookies?
For proper storage, place your Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to savor them longer, freezing is a great option—just ensure they are fully cooled before packing them away.

Can I freeze these cookies, and how?
Definitely! To freeze your cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet for a couple of hours until they are firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

What if my cookies turn out too hard?
Very! If your Hot Chocolate Cookies come out hard, it might mean they were overbaked. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes. Look for set edges with a slightly soft center, as they will continue to firm up while cooling. Always remember, less is more when it comes to baking time!

Are these cookies safe for people with allergies?
Absolutely! While Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows are generally safe, they contain common allergens like gluten and dairy. If you are baking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using a gluten-free flour blend and dairy-free chocolate chips. Always check the labels to ensure all ingredients are allergy-friendly!