Name: Decadent Hot Chocolate Cookies for Cozy Winter Indulgence
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (softened); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/2 cup Brown Sugar; 1 large Egg; 1/4 cup Milk (dairy or non-dairy); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (optional); 2 cups Flour (all-purpose or gluten-free); 1 packet Hot Cocoa Mix (unsweetened); 1/4 cup Cocoa Powder (regular or dark); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Marshmallow Bits; 1 cup Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips (or dark/milk chocolate)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the chilly air creeps in and the holidays draw near, I find myself craving the comforting embrace of sweet, chocolatey goodness. Enter my Hot Chocolate Cookies—an indulgent treat that marries the warmth of a cozy cup of hot cocoa with the delightful texture of a freshly baked cookie. What makes these treats even more enticing is their quick prep time, which means you can whip up a batch in no time for holiday gatherings or cookie swaps. Plus, the added bonus of marshmallow bits nestled in each cookie ensures everyone will be coming back for seconds. So, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking to impress your loved ones, these cookies will surely warm up your winter days. Are you ready to get baking?

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake?

Decadent and absolutely satisfying, these Hot Chocolate Cookies deliver that cozy winter vibe with every bite. Sky-high chocolate flavor is achieved thanks to the delightful mix of hot cocoa and semi-sweet chips. Perfectly gooey marshmallows melt into the mix, leaving pockets of sweet indulgence. Quick to prepare, you’ll have these cookies ready in no time—ideal for those last-minute gatherings! Versatile recipe allows for fun spin-offs, like adding spiced flavors or different chocolate types. And who can resist pairing them with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of hot cocoa?

Hot Chocolate Cookies Ingredients

• All you need for rich, chocolatey bliss!

For the Dough

Butter – Use softened butter for creaminess; margarine can work in a pinch.
Granulated Sugar – Essential for sweetness; feel free to balance with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel; substitute with more granulated sugar if needed, but reduce liquids slightly.
Egg – Acts as the binder; no substitute recommended for optimal texture.
Milk – Brings moisture; almond or oat milk can substitute for a dairy-free option.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; you can choose to omit for simplicity.
Flour – Provides structure; all-purpose flour works best, but you can use a gluten-free blend if desired.
Hot Cocoa Mix – Imparts deep chocolate flavor; ensure it’s unsweetened to control sweetness levels.
Cocoa Powder – Adds intense chocolate depth; either regular or dark cocoa will work beautifully.
Baking Soda – Essential leavening agent for lightness; do not substitute.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; absolutely do not omit!

For Texture and Richness

Marshmallow Bits – Deliver delightful texture; avoid substituting with mini marshmallows as they melt differently.
Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips – Extra chocolate indulgence; dark or milk chocolate are great swaps!

Whip up these Hot Chocolate Cookies for a festive treat that everyone will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Chocolate Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to ensure your Hot Chocolate Cookies don’t stick. This small step makes for easy cleanup and perfect cookies each time.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a stand mixer, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step adds air to the dough, ensuring your cookies will be wonderfully soft and chewy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Mix in the Wet Ingredients
With the mixer on low speed, add the egg, milk, and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugars. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth, about 1-2 minutes. This creates the base for your Hot Chocolate Cookies, bringing together flavor and moisture in each bite.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Gradually incorporate the flour, hot cocoa mix, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt into the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined, about 1 minute. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be thick and slightly sticky, signaling the perfect texture for your cookies.

Step 5: Fold in the Mix-ins
Using a spatula, gently fold in the marshmallow bits and semi-sweet chocolate chips. This step ensures that the rich chocolate and sweet marshmallow flavors are evenly distributed throughout the dough, making every bite of your Hot Chocolate Cookies a delightful surprise.

Step 6: Portion the Dough
Use a cookie scoop to portion out the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing is vital as the Hot Chocolate Cookies will spread while baking, allowing for that soft, chewy center we all love without merging into each other.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. The edges should be set, while the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked. Keep an eye on them, as overbaking can lead to a firmer texture, deviating from the desired chewy consistency.

Step 8: Add Extra Marshmallows and Chocolate
Once your Hot Chocolate Cookies are out of the oven, immediately press a few extra marshmallow bits and chocolate chips onto the tops of the warm cookies. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds extra gooeyness as they melt slightly into the still-warm cookies.

Step 9: Cool and Transfer
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes, until they are set enough to handle. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This critical resting period solidifies the cookies while maintaining their chewy texture for a delightful treat.

What to Serve with Hot Chocolate Cookies

As you indulge in the chocolatey charm of these cookies, imagine pairing them with delightful sides that elevate your cozy experience.

Frosty Milkshake: A cold, creamy shake balances the warm cookies, offering a luscious texture you’ll adore.
Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that perfectly pairs with the dense chocolate flavors.
Peppermint Bark: The refreshing minty crunch of peppermint bark resonates beautifully with the rich hot chocolate flavor of the cookies.
Chili Hot Cocoa: For a daring twist, serve with hot cocoa spiced with chili; it amplifies chocolate richness while bringing exciting warmth.
Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits provide a refreshing contrast, cutting through the sweetness and complementing the cookies’ chewy texture.
Roasted Marshmallows: Embrace the nostalgia by roasting marshmallows that you can sandwich between two cookies for a gooey treat.
Espresso: A shot of espresso perfectly balances the sweetness of these cookies, enhancing the chocolate notes with rich coffee flavor.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider can wrap you in cozy autumn vibes, harmonizing beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies.
Ice Cream Sundae: Top vanilla ice cream with cookie crumbles for a dreamy dessert bursting with unique textures and flavors.
Hot Chocolate: Serve the cookies with a mug of hot cocoa, creating a nostalgic pairing that brings memories of winter evenings together.

Hot Chocolate Cookies Variations

Customize your Hot Chocolate Cookies for a winter-wonderland experience that’s uniquely yours!

Brownie Mix Shortcut: Use brownie mix instead of flour and cocoa powder for an ultra-rich, fudgy cookie.
This twist not only saves time but elevates the flavor to decadent new heights.
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap traditional milk for almond or oat milk to make these cookies suitable for dairy-free diets.
You’ll still get that heavenly moisture without sacrificing taste!
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly treat.
These cookies will still be soft and chewy, ensuring everyone can join in the fun!
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for delightful crunch and added richness.
The toasty flavor of nuts complements the chocolate perfectly.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of cinnamon to introduce a warm, spicy note.
This unexpected twist can really awaken your taste buds while keeping it festive!
Flavor Infusion: Experiment by adding 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing holiday flavor.
Peppermint and chocolate together create a delightful surprise with every bite.
Chip Variety: Exchange semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate or white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
Each type of chocolate brings its own character, creating a new experience with every batch.

To enjoy even more baking inspiration, consider trying out my Chocolate Croissant Bake for a delightful brunch, or whip up some Lemon Raspberry Cookies for a bright, zesty twist!

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Chocolate Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance—just store it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent browning. If you’re looking to go even further, you can also scoop the dough into balls and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the chilled dough on a baking sheet and add a couple of minutes to your baking time. This way, you can enjoy the delightful taste of freshly baked, melt-in-your-mouth cookies with minimal fuss, just in time for family gatherings!

Expert Tips for Hot Chocolate Cookies

Use Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing. This helps create a fluffy texture in your Hot Chocolate Cookies.
Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, chewy centers you desire.
Chill the Dough: For even richer flavors, chill your cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking. This step helps enhance the taste and texture.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep a close eye on the baking time—remove the cookies when edges are set but centers are still gooey. Overbaking yields firmer cookies, which isn’t the goal here!
Marshmallow Selection: Use Mallow Bits instead of regular mini marshmallows to prevent melting into a gooey puddle. This keeps those delightful bites intact in your cookies.

Storage Tips for Hot Chocolate Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your Hot Chocolate Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Fridge: If you want to keep them fresher longer, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 7 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Hot Chocolate Cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.
Reheating: When reheating, add an extra marshmallow on top and warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a gooey treat that’s just like fresh from the oven!

Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chocolate for my Hot Chocolate Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips. If you prefer a bolder taste, consider using dark chocolate chips instead. Milk chocolate can also work, especially if you enjoy a sweeter cookie. Just remember, a mix of different chocolates can add a delightful variety to the overall taste!

What’s the best way to store Hot Chocolate Cookies?
To keep your cookies soft and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just let them come back to room temperature before enjoying! For longer-term storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag—these can last up to 2 months without losing their delicious character!

Can I freeze Hot Chocolate Cookies? How should I do it?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze these delightful cookies! First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours. Once they’re firm, transfer the cookies into a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. You can enjoy them straight from the freezer or thaw them in the fridge—microwaving for about 10-15 seconds brings back that fresh-from-the-oven gooeyness!

What should I do if my dough is too dry or crumbly?
If you find your dough a bit too dry, it’s usually a sign that the flour was over-measured or not enough moisture was added. Start by adding a teaspoon of milk at a time until the dough comes together. Mix in the liquid gently to avoid overworking it. Remember, the dough should be thick yet slightly sticky, so don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfectly smooth!

Are there any allergy considerations for Hot Chocolate Cookies?
Absolutely! If you’re baking for someone with allergies, keep in mind that these cookies contain common allergens such as dairy (butter and chocolate) and eggs. For a dairy-free option, you can substitute butter with a dairy-free margarine and use non-dairy chocolate chips. Additionally, a gluten-free flour blend can work perfectly in this recipe, making it a more inclusive treat for all your loved ones!

Can I use brownie mix to make a shortcut version of Hot Chocolate Cookies?
Very much so! You can substitute some of the flour and cocoa powder with a brownie mix for a quicker version. Start by combining 1 cup of brownie mix with the remaining ingredients in the recipe. This shortcut yields soft, fudgy cookies with the same delicious hot chocolate flavor, perfect for when you’re short on time but want delicious holiday cookies!