Name: Delicious Hot Chocolate Cookies for Cozy Winter Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (softened; can substitute with margarine or coconut oil); 1 cup Sugar (can use coconut sugar for alternative); 1 cup Brown Sugar (for moisture and chewiness); 1 large egg Egg (can use flax egg for egg-free version); 2 tablespoons Milk (any non-dairy milk can be used); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (can substitute with almond extract); 2 cups Flour (gluten-free all-purpose flour for gluten-free version); 1/2 cup Powdered Hot Cocoa Mix (can substitute with extra cocoa powder); 1/4 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Dutch-processed cocoa for deeper flavor); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (do not substitute); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (reducing it can lower sodium); 1 cup Marshmallow Bits (or mini marshmallows); 1 cup Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips (can use milk or dark chocolate)

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As I pulled the soft, warm cookies from the oven, I was immediately enveloped by the cozy aroma of chocolate wafting through my kitchen. These Gooey Hot Chocolate Cookies capture that nostalgic feeling of sipping hot cocoa on a chilly winter evening. Perfectly chewy, with hints of melted chocolate and fluffy marshmallow bits, they’re not just a sweet treat but also a delightful way to bring people together during the festive season. You won’t believe how easy they are to whip up—just 15 minutes of prep! Plus, with the option to make them gluten-free, everyone can join in the indulgence. Ready to fill your home with the magic of holiday baking? Let’s dive in!

Why Are Hot Chocolate Cookies Irresistible?

Chewy Delight: These cookies are the perfect blend of a soft, gooey center and a slightly crisp exterior, creating a texture you’ll crave.
Quick & Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious treats ready for any gathering.
Holiday Cheer: The aroma of chocolate and marshmallow fills your home with nostalgia, making them ideal for festive celebrations.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as-is, or try adding spices for a unique twist. Add a side of your favorite beverage, like hot cocoa or milk, for a complete experience!
Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are loved by both kids and adults, ensuring there’s something for everyone at your holiday table.

Hot Chocolate Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough
• Butter – Adds richness and tenderness to cookies; substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps with browning; coconut sugar can provide a less processed alternative.
• Brown Sugar – Enhances moisture and creates a chewy texture; using only white sugar will yield less chewiness.
• Egg – Provides structure and moisture; for an egg-free substitute, use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water).
• Milk – Adds moisture to the dough; feel free to use almond milk or any other non-dairy milk.
• Vanilla Extract – Boosts flavor and aroma; almond extract can be a fun substitute for added depth.
• Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; gluten-free all-purpose flour works great for a gluten-free version.
• Powdered Hot Cocoa Mix – Enhances chocolate flavor; can substitute with extra cocoa powder—adjust sweetness as needed.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Deepens chocolate richness; Dutch-processed cocoa lends even more depth.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent; it’s best not to substitute this ingredient.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; reducing it can help lower sodium content.

For the Mix-ins
• Marshmallow Bits – Add gooey sweetness and texture; use mini marshmallows for a similar effect, but be aware of melting.
• Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips – Provide rich chocolate flavor and texture; milk chocolate or dark chocolate can replace them based on your preference.

These Hot Chocolate Cookies are a perfect winter indulgence that will warm your heart and fulfill your sweet cravings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Chocolate Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your Hot Chocolate Cookies bake evenly and achieve that delightful golden-brown exterior. While your oven is heating, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 cup of brown sugar. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. Ensuring it’s well combined will give your cookies a wonderful texture and sweetness.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, beat in 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the fluffy butter-sugar mixture. Continue mixing until everything is well incorporated, which should take about 1 minute. This mixture provides moisture and adds a rich flavor to your Hot Chocolate Cookies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup of powdered hot cocoa mix, 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until you see no dry flour. Be careful not to overmix—the dough should be slightly sticky.

Step 5: Fold in the Goodies
Gently fold in 1 cup of marshmallow bits and 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips into your dough using a spatula. Make sure the marshmallows and chocolate are evenly distributed throughout, creating pockets of gooey sweetness in your Hot Chocolate Cookies. This step adds that wonderful texture that makes these cookies irresistible.

Step 6: Scoop and Space the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Space the cookie dough balls about 2 inches apart to account for spreading as they bake. This method helps each cookie maintain its shape and ensures they have enough room to expand without merging together.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes. The edges should look set, while the centers will remain soft and slightly underbaked—a hallmark of perfectly chewy Hot Chocolate Cookies. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking and drying out!

Step 8: Add Toppings Right Away
As soon as you remove the cookie sheets from the oven, gently press additional marshmallow bits and chocolate chips into the tops of each cookie. This will create a beautiful, melty topping that draws everyone in with its gooey goodness and enhances the overall chocolate flavor.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to set completely so they hold their shape while maintaining that gooey center. Once cooled, these Hot Chocolate Cookies are ready to be devoured alongside a warming drink or shared with family and friends.

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Chocolate Cookies are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 36 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and refrigerating it. This not only enhances the flavors but also makes baking a breeze on the day you plan to enjoy them. Just scoop the chilled dough onto baking sheets and bake them straight from the fridge; they’ll turn out just as delicious! If you’d like to prep even further, you can also freeze the cookie dough for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before proceeding to bake, ensuring every bite remains wonderfully gooey and rich.

Storage Tips for Hot Chocolate Cookies

Room Temperature: Store baked Hot Chocolate Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, ensuring they stay soft and chewy.

Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours until firm. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag, where they can stay fresh for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm, microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will bring back that gooey texture as if they were freshly baked!

Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen cookies, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave for quick enjoyment.

What to Serve with Hot Chocolate Cookies

Indulging in a warm, chocolate-filled treat is just the beginning of a delicious experience. Let’s elevate your cookie enjoyment with these delightful pairings.

Glass of Milk: The classic pairing, cold milk enhances the rich flavors and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Hot Cocoa: For a comforting experience, serve with a steaming cup of hot cocoa, creating a delightful chocolate explosion on your palate.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting over warm cookies contrasts beautifully with the gooey centers.
Chocolate Fondue: Dip the cookies in warm chocolate fondue for an extra layer of indulgence that guests will adore.
Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea complement the rich chocolate flavors, adding both warmth and a fragrant aroma.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate: For a festive twist, serve with peppermint-infused cocoa, enhancing the holiday spirit with a refreshing burst.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the cookies introduces a sweet buttery flavor, effortlessly entwining with the chocolate goodness.
Buttery Popcorn: A sweet and salty side, this crunchy snack provides a fun texture that pairs well with soft, gooey cookies, making for a delightful contrast.
Fruit Medley: Fresh, juicy fruits like strawberries or oranges cleanse the palate, balancing a sweet bite with refreshing brightness.
Mulled Wine: For adult gatherings, serve these cookies with a warm glass of spiced mulled wine to create a cozy and festive atmosphere.

Expert Tips for Hot Chocolate Cookies

Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for up to 36 hours enhances flavor and texture, making for even chewier Hot Chocolate Cookies.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your cookies; a soft center is key to the perfect gooey texture, so take them out when the edges are set but the middle is slightly underbaked.
Use the Right Marshmallows: Opt for marshmallow bits instead of mini marshmallows. Regular ones will melt completely, losing that chewy texture you want in your Hot Chocolate Cookies.
Measure Flour Properly: Spoon and level your flour for accurate measurement. Too much flour may lead to dry, crumbly cookies, losing that desirable softness.
Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to mix in different types of chocolate or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top to elevate the flavor experience of your Hot Chocolate Cookies!

Hot Chocolate Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these cookies and adjust them to suit your taste buds!

Spicy Kick: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon chili powder. This adds warmth and excitement to every bite.
Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. The contrast with the gooey center is simply divine!
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk for a completely dairy-free treat everyone can enjoy.
Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. It’s equally delicious and will satisfy those cravings!
White Chocolate Delight: Substitute half the semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a sweet, creamy spin. This twist adds a beautiful color contrast too.
Maximize Richness: Use Dutch-processed cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa for a deeper chocolate flavor. This change enhances the indulgence factor.
Minty Fresh: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a festive, minty flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate. Perfect for the holidays!
Shortcut Version: Use a brownie mix for a quick and easy cookie dough. They’ll still deliver that gooey, chocolatey satisfaction in less time—perfect for those last-minute plans!

For more variations, why not explore my Chocolate Chip Cookies or treat yourself with Tiramisu Cookies Melt as a delightful change of pace? You can even make zesty delights like my Lemon Raspberry Cookies to satisfy your sweet tooth in fresh new ways!

Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of cocoa is best for making Hot Chocolate Cookies?
For the best flavor, use unsweetened cocoa powder paired with powdered hot cocoa mix. Dutch-processed cocoa can also be used for a richer taste. I often recommend using a high-quality cocoa to really elevate the chocolatey goodness in your cookies!

How should I store my Hot Chocolate Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This helps keep them soft and chewy. If you want to enjoy them longer, freeze them—simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to 2 months. Just remember to let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds before indulging.

Can I make these Hot Chocolate Cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make these cookies gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. This ensures that you retain the same soft and chewy texture while accommodating those with gluten sensitivities. You’ll love how delicious they still turn out!

What should I do if my Hot Chocolate Cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies turn out dry, it’s likely due to overbaking or too much flour. Next time, be careful to measure the flour properly—spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off without packing it down. Keep a close eye while baking to ensure they’re taken out when they look set but the centers are still soft. If they feel a bit dry, try adding a tablespoon of milk to the dough for extra moisture in your next batch!

How long can I refrigerate the cookie dough before baking?
You can refrigerate the dough for up to 36 hours, which is fantastic as it deepens the flavors and enhances the texture, leading to even chewier Hot Chocolate Cookies. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent any drying out in the fridge!

Are Hot Chocolate Cookies safe for pets?
While they might look tempting, it’s best to keep these cookies away from pets due to the chocolate content. Chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats, so ensure any leftovers are stored safely out of their reach.