Hot Chocolate Cookies

If you love the warm and comforting taste of hot chocolate, you will adore Hot Chocolate Cookies. These delicious treats are soft, chewy, and inspired by the favorite winter drink. Packed with chocolate and topped with marshmallow bits, they offer a delightful twist on traditional cookies. You can enjoy them with a glass of milk or as a sweet snack during a cozy evening at home.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Hot Chocolate Cookies is a fun and rewarding experience. They are perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday season or at any gathering. The rich chocolate flavor and gooey marshmallow bits make these cookies truly irresistible. Plus, they are easy to bake, so you can enjoy freshly baked cookies right out of the oven.

How to Make Hot Chocolate Cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2/3 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
4 packages hot cocoa mix (or 3/4 cup hot cocoa mix – NOT sugar-free versions)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup Mallow Bits (mini marshmallows do not work the same and can be a bit of a sticky mess)

Directions:

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugars with a stand mixer until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs and vanilla to the mixture and continue to mix well.
In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, hot cocoa mix, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture until everything is well blended.
Stir in the chocolate chips and Mallow Bits.
Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for better flavor.
When you are ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Drop 2 tablespoons of dough onto baking sheets lined with silicone mats or parchment paper, keeping them 2 inches apart.
Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

How to Serve Hot Chocolate Cookies

You can serve Hot Chocolate Cookies warm right out of the oven or allow them to cool completely. They pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of hot chocolate. For an extra touch, sprinkle some extra Mallow Bits or chocolate chips on top before serving.

How to Store Hot Chocolate Cookies

To store your Hot Chocolate Cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Tips to Make Hot Chocolate Cookies

Softened butter is key for the right texture. Leave it out at room temperature for about an hour before you start.
Chilling the dough helps maintain the shape of the cookies while baking.
Don’t skip the Mallow Bits! They add a fun marshmallowy taste that makes these cookies special.

Variation

You can customize Hot Chocolate Cookies by adding different types of chocolate chips (like white chocolate or dark chocolate) or nuts. You could also try drizzling melted chocolate on top for an extra sweet treat.

FAQs

1. Can I use sugar-free hot cocoa mix?
No, sugar-free hot cocoa mix does not work well in this recipe. Stick to regular hot cocoa mix for the best results.

2. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly browned, and the center still looks slightly doughy. They will continue to cook a bit after you take them out of the oven.

3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough! Just shape it into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer them to an airtight container once frozen. You can bake them straight from the freezer; just add a minute or two to the baking time.