Prep Time: ~15 minutes
Bake Time: ~10–12 minutes
Total Time: ~25–30 minutes
Yield: ~18–24 cookies
Introduction
Hot Chocolate Cookies are rich, soft, and full of satisfying chocolate flavor — inspired by the cozy comfort of a warm mug of hot cocoa. These cookies blend deep cocoa, melty chocolate chunks, and optional marshmallow or white chocolate bits for the ultimate winter treat. They’re perfect for holiday cookie trays, cold days, dessert plates, or gifting.
Why These Cookies Are So Loved
These cookies balance rich chocolate flavor with tender, chewy texture. Cocoa powder gives them a deep cocoa base, while chocolate pieces and optional marshmallows create melty pockets of sweetness. They’re fun to make, easy to customize, and deliver that comforting hot chocolate flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cookie Dough
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (optional, for texture)
For Chocolate & Mix-Ins
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks
- ¾ cup mini marshmallows (or chopped regular marshmallows)
- Optional: white chocolate chips, cocoa nibs, or colored sugar for decoration
The Art of Making Hot Chocolate Cookies
Great hot chocolate cookies rely on rich cocoa and a slightly chewy dough. Using a mix of granulated and brown sugar adds depth and moisture, while the combination of chocolate chips and marshmallows gives texture and melty goodness. Chilling the dough briefly can help cookies hold their shape and prevent spreading too much.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Cocoa powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
Set aside.
3. Cream Butter & Sugars
In a large bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and creamy.
4. Add Wet Ingredients
Add the egg and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
If the dough feels too stiff, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk to loosen slightly.
5. Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in Chocolate & Marshmallows
Gently fold in the chocolate chips and marshmallows so they’re evenly scattered throughout the dough.
7. Scoop & Bake
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving space between cookies.
Optional: press a few extra chocolate chips or marshmallows on top for a decorative finish.
Bake 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft — they’ll firm up as they cool.
8. Cool & Serve
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Enjoy warm with milk, coffee, or a mug of hot cocoa!
Tips for Best Results
- Use good-quality cocoa powder for rich chocolate taste.
- Don’t overmix the dough once flour is added — this keeps cookies tender.
- If marshmallows melt too much, sprinkle fresh mini marshmallows on top after baking.
- A brief chill (15–20 minutes) helps keep cookies thick and chewy.
- Add festive sugar or a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
Creative Variations
- Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies: stir in peppermint extract and crushed candy canes.
- Triple Chocolate: add white and dark chocolate chips along with semi-sweet.
- Salted Caramel: press a caramel piece into the center of each cookie after baking and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Nutty Twist: add chopped toasted pecans or almonds for crunch.
- Spice It Up: add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder for extra depth.
Storage & Freshness
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 2 months; thaw before serving.
Conclusion
Hot Chocolate Cookies are rich, comforting, and wonderfully indulgent — perfect for holiday baking, cold weather treats, or anytime you want a delicious chocolatey snack. With melty chocolate pieces and cozy cocoa flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite in every season
