Introduction
Indulge in a winter wonderland with these delightful Hot Chocolate Cookies! Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, soft cookie that captures all the cozy flavors of your favorite hot chocolate — rich cocoa, sweet chocolate chips, and fluffy marshmallows. Whether it’s a crisp afternoon or a festive gathering, these cookies promise to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. Perfect for sharing, or simply enjoying with a steaming mug of cocoa, they are sure to become a seasonal favorite you’ll turn to again and again.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then stir in the inviting scent of vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined, being careful not to overwork the dough.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows, imagining the little bursts of flavor waiting to delight your taste buds.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still appear soft and gooey.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, allowing them to firm up, before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For added flavor, consider sprinkling a pinch of sea salt on top of the cookies right before baking. If you’d like to mix things up, try adding a swirl of peppermint extract or a handful of chopped nuts for a delightful crunch. These cookies store well in an airtight container, so feel free to bake a double batch to enjoy throughout the week!
Cooking Techniques
Creaming the butter and sugars together is a crucial step in achieving a light and airy cookie texture, so take your time with it! Be sure not to overmix once the dry ingredients are added, as this can lead to tough cookies. The perfect baking time will keep the centers soft and chewy while the edges turn golden brown, giving you that wonderfully indulgent cookie experience.
FAQ
Can I use non-dairy butter? Absolutely! This recipe works great with non-dairy substitutes, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
How can I store these cookies? Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
Conclusion
These Hot Chocolate Cookies are not just a treat; they are a warm embrace on a chilly day. With their gooey marshmallow centers and rich chocolate burst, they’re sure to capture the hearts of everyone who tries them. So grab your apron, turn on your favorite holiday tunes, and start baking this sweet memory-maker. Enjoy with loved ones or savor each bite alone — either way, you’re in for a deliciously cozy experience!