Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows

There is something truly magical about *Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows*. These cookies capture the cozy warmth of your favorite winter drink in a soft, chewy treat that melts in your mouth with every bite. The gooey mini marshmallows add a delightful sweetness and texture, making these cookies the perfect companion for chilly days, dessert cravings, or simply when you need a burst of comfort in cookie form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort in Every Bite: These cookies replicate the nostalgic coziness of sipping hot chocolate, wrapped in a warm, soft cookie.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With easy pantry staples, the richness of chocolate and marshmallows shine through perfectly.
• Perfect Texture Balance: Chewy cookie edges combined with gooey marshmallow centers create an irresistible contrast.
• Great for All Skill Levels: Whether you’re a baking newbie or seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving.
• Customizable Treat: Easily tweaked with different chocolates or add-ins to match your mood or pantry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses a handful of classic baking essentials that work harmoniously to bring out the perfect taste and texture. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the richness of cocoa powder to the softness lent by butter and marshmallows.

• All-purpose Flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb to the cookies.
• Cocoa Powder: Delivers the deep chocolate flavor critical to the hot chocolate theme.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps achieve a chewy texture.
• Sugar (Brown and Granulated): Brown sugar adds moisture and chewiness, while granulated sugar balances sweetness and promotes browning.
• Egg: Binds ingredients and enriches the dough.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise with a soft texture.
• Salt: Enhances the chocolate flavor and balances sweetness.
• Mini Marshmallows: The signature gooey, sweet bites that melt perfectly into the cookie.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings warmth and enhances overall taste.

Variations for Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows

Feel free to personalize this recipe to suit your cravings or dietary needs. These cookies are versatile and adapt well to different ingredients, so don’t hesitate to experiment!

• White Chocolate Marshmallow: Switch cocoa powder for white chocolate chips and use vanilla marshmallows for a sweeter variation.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends or family.
• Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to contribute a satisfying crunch that complements the soft marshmallows.
• Mint Chocolate: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract and use dark chocolate chunks for a festive touch.
• Vegan Adaptation: Substitute butter with coconut oil, egg with flaxseed meal, and ensure marshmallows are vegan-friendly.

How to Make Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and prepping your workspace. Soften the butter to room temperature for easier mixing and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Then, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leaveners and cocoa.

Step 4: Create the Cookie Dough

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring just until the dough forms. Avoid over-mixing to keep your cookies soft and tender.

Step 5: Fold in Mini Marshmallows

Gently fold in the mini marshmallows. They may melt slightly while baking, so handle the dough carefully to keep the marshmallows well distributed throughout.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until the edges are set but the cookies still look slightly soft in the center.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This step helps the marshmallows set and prevents sticking.

Pro Tips for Making Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter blends easier and ensures a uniform dough.
• Don’t Overbake: Take cookies out while slightly underdone; they continue to cook on the sheet and stay soft.
• Fold Marshmallows Carefully: Mix in marshmallows gently to prevent them from melting before baking.
• Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
• Experiment with Marshmallow Types: Try mini, regular, or even flavored marshmallows for different textures and tastes.

How to Serve Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows

Garnishes

Top freshly baked cookies with a light dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate for an elegant touch that enhances the treat visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

Pair your Hot Chocolate Cookies with a steaming mug of hot chocolate or a cold glass of milk to complement the chocolate and marshmallow flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the cookies stacked with mini marshmallows and chocolate chips between layers for a fun twist or arrange them around a bowl of warm cocoa for a cozy dessert platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their soft texture and freshness.

Freezing

Freeze baked cookies in a single layer or cookie dough balls for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before baking or serving.

Reheating

Warm leftover cookies in a microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften them and revive gooey marshmallow goodness before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use regular-sized marshmallows instead of mini?

While you can use regular marshmallows, mini marshmallows melt more evenly and distribute better throughout the cookie dough, providing a more consistent texture.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Not as is, but by swapping regular flour for a gluten-free blend, you can easily create a gluten-friendly version without sacrificing flavor or texture.

How long do the cookies stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh and soft for about four days at room temperature.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds an extra melt-in-your-mouth experience alongside the marshmallows.

Do I have to chill the dough?

Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and results in thicker cookies, but it’s optional if you prefer faster preparation.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a sweet and satisfying treat that perfectly captures the heartwarming essence of a cup of hot cocoa, these Hot Chocolate Cookies with Mini Marshmallows are an absolute must-try. They’re easy to make, versatile, and absolutely delicious—a cozy hug baked into cookie form. Give them a shot and watch them become your new favorite go-to comfort snack!

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