Introduction

These Hot Chocolate Cookies are a delightful twist on classic chocolate treats, combining rich cocoa flavors with gooey marshmallow bits and melty chocolate chips. Perfect for cozy days, they offer a soft, comforting bite that tastes just like a cup of hot cocoa in cookie form.

The image shows several round chocolate cookies with a cracked surface, placed on a silver metal cooling rack over a white marbled background. Each cookie has a moist, dark brown color with glossy, melted chocolate chips on top and small white marshmallows scattered across the surface. One cookie is broken in half, revealing a gooey interior with melted chocolate and marshmallow inside. A woman's hand is gently holding one cookie from the top right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup butter, softened
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 egg
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/8 cups flour (1 cup + 2 tablespoons)
1/3 cup powdered hot cocoa mix
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup marshmallow bits, plus extra for topping
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, plus extra for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar together on low speed until combined, then increase to high and mix until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add the egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl with a spatula once to ensure even mixing.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, hot cocoa mix, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.
Step 5: Stir in the marshmallow bits and chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: (Optional) Cover the dough and refrigerate for up to 36 hours to develop flavor and make scooping easier.
Step 7: Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough evenly onto the prepared baking sheets.
Step 8: Bake one sheet at a time for 8-10 minutes. Be careful not to overbake; the centers should remain soft.
Step 9: While the cookies are still hot, press a few extra chocolate chips and marshmallow bits on top for a pretty, melty finish.
Step 10: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet, as the residual heat will continue to bake them slightly.

Tips & Variations

Use regular or dark unsweetened cocoa powder for a milder or more intense chocolate flavor.
Mallow bits are different from mini marshmallows; they are dehydrated and hold their shape better when baked.
For a quicker version, mix a box of brownie mix with hot cocoa mix, oil, egg, water, and marshmallow bits, then bake as directed.

Storage

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat briefly in the microwave to enjoy gooey melted marshmallows and chocolate chips.

How to Serve

The image shows several dark chocolate cookies with a rough texture, each topped with small white marshmallows and glossy, melted chocolate chips that glisten. One cookie in the center is slightly broken, revealing a soft, gooey white marshmallow inside. The cookies rest on a metal cooling rack with a few marshmallows scattered around. The background is a white marbled surface that contrasts with the dark cookies beautifully. A woman's hand is about to pick up one cookie. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use mini marshmallows instead of marshmallow bits?

Mini marshmallows tend to melt and spread during baking, whereas marshmallow bits hold their shape better and provide a more controlled texture. Using mini marshmallows may result in a messier cookie.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, baked cookies freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.