Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of winter with these Hot Cocoa Cookies! With rich chocolatey goodness and a hint of marshmallow, they bring the essence of hot cocoa right to your cookie jar. Perfect for chilly days or holiday gatherings, these cookies are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful treats:

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup mini marshmallows
Additional marshmallows or chocolate for topping (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Fold in Chocolate Chips and Marshmallows: Gently fold in the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows.
Scoop Cookies: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Top (Optional): Press additional marshmallows or chocolate pieces onto the tops of the dough balls for extra flair.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 24 cookies
Calories per Serving: Approximately 180
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 14g
Protein: 2g

Preparation Time

Total Time: 1 hour
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 12 minutes

How to Serve

Arrange the cookies on a festive platter, garnished with holiday decorations.
Pair with a warm cup of cocoa or milk for a cozy treat.
Consider packaging them in gift boxes for friends and family.

Additional Tips

Make It Ahead: The dough can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Flavor Variations: Try adding peppermint extract for a minty twist, or use white chocolate chips for a different flavor.
Storing Cookies: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Recipe Variations

S’mores Hot Cocoa Cookies: Add crushed graham crackers to the dough and top with mini marshmallows and chocolate.
Spicy Hot Cocoa Cookies: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a spicy kick.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: Unbaked cookie dough can be frozen. Scoop onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Storage: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Special Equipment

Baking sheets
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Cookie scoop or tablespoon

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use different types of chocolate?
A1: Yes! Feel free to use dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips.

Q2: How do I prevent the marshmallows from melting completely?
A2: Press them onto the tops of the cookies just before baking, and they’ll hold their shape better.

Q3: Can I make these gluten-free?
A3: Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Q4: What if I don’t have cocoa powder?
A4: You can use a chocolate cake mix for a similar flavor and texture.

Q5: How can I make these cookies chewier?
A5: Slightly underbake them to keep them soft and chewy in the center.

These Hot Cocoa Cookies are the perfect way to warm up your winter days and celebrate the holiday season! Enjoy baking and sharing these cozy treats with your loved ones!