Hot Chocolate Cookies

Hot Chocolate Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of cozy winter nights. These cookies blend the rich flavors of hot cocoa with the sweetness of mini vegan marshmallows, making them an ideal dessert for holiday gatherings or just a special evening at home. Easy to make and irresistibly chewy, Hot Chocolate Cookies will warm your taste buds and bring smiles to everyone around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: Enjoy the nostalgic taste of hot chocolate in cookie form.
• Fun to Make: Rolling dough around mini marshmallows is a fun activity for all ages.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 24 cookies, they’re great for parties, cookie exchanges, or family gatherings.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like nuts or different types of chocolate chips.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 40 minutes, these treats are perfect for last-minute dessert cravings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl allows you to mix ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and ensures your butter and sugars are perfectly fluffy.
• Cookie scoop: Helps in portioning dough uniformly for even baking.

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Ingredients

To make these delightful Hot Chocolate Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough

• 10 Tablespoons unsalted butter, (softened to room temperature)
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, (packed)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar, (divided)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ounce packet of hot chocolate mix
• 3 Tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Filling

• 120 mini vegan marshmallows

How to Make Hot Chocolate Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until everything is incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add in the flour, hot chocolate mix, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix just until a dough forms; be careful not to overmix as this can affect texture.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Use a cookie scoop (1 1/2 – 2 tablespoons) to portion out 24 equal scoops of dough. Roll each scoop into a ball then flatten it slightly into a disc. Place several inches apart on the prepared cookie sheet. Top each disc with about 5-6 mini vegan marshmallows. Wrap the dough around the marshmallows by pinching the seams closed and roll them until smooth. Finally, roll each ball in the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar for extra sweetness.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake your cookies for about 10-12 minutes or until they have cracked on top and you can see hints of marshmallow peeking through. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow them to cool on wire racks for about 15 minutes before serving.

Now you have delicious Hot Chocolate Cookies ready to enjoy! Perfectly soft with gooey marshmallows inside—these cookies are bound to become a favorite during any festive gathering!

How to Serve Hot Chocolate Cookies

Hot Chocolate Cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience with these delicious cookies.

With a Cup of Cocoa

• Pair your hot chocolate cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa for an indulgent treat. The flavors will complement each other beautifully.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create an ice cream sandwich by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two hot chocolate cookies. This adds a creamy contrast to the chewy texture.

Festive Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a festive platter alongside seasonal fruits like strawberries or raspberries. The vibrant colors will make your dessert table pop.

Dipped in Chocolate

• Melt some vegan chocolate and dip half of each cookie into it. Allow the chocolate to set for an elegant touch that elevates the cookie’s presentation.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Serve the cookies topped with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for an extra layer of flavor and a delightful visual appeal.

How to Perfect Hot Chocolate Cookies

To create the best Hot Chocolate Cookies, follow these helpful tips that ensure perfect results every time.

• Use room temperature butter: Softened butter blends better with sugars, creating a fluffy texture essential for chewy cookies.
• Don’t over mix: Mix until just combined to avoid tough cookies; overworking the dough can lead to undesirable textures.
• Chill the dough: If time allows, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps to maintain the shape and enhances flavor.
• Watch baking times closely: Remove from the oven when you see cracks on top; this indicates they’re perfectly baked while keeping their chewiness.
• Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Chocolate Cookies

Hot Chocolate Cookies pair well with various side dishes, making them even more delightful. Here are some great options.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that balances the richness of the cookies.
2. Nut Mix: A blend of roasted nuts adds a crunchy contrast and healthy fats to your dessert table.
3. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of mild cheeses that complement the sweetness without overpowering it.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a light side that pairs nicely with rich cookies.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a fondue station where guests can dip fruit or additional cookies into melted chocolate.
6. Hot Beverage Bar: Provide options such as herbal teas or spiced cider, allowing guests to create their perfect pairing with hot chocolate cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hot Chocolate Cookies can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common pitfalls is essential for perfecting your treat.

• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a chewy texture.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: Failing to chill the dough can result in flat cookies. Allow the dough to rest in the fridge for better shape and texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Inaccurate measurements can alter cookie consistency. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Using Old Baking Soda: Expired baking soda may not provide the right rise. Always check the expiration date before baking.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Incorrect oven temperature leads to uneven baking. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Hot Chocolate Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hot Chocolate Cookies

• Place baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hot Chocolate Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping them occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hot Chocolate Cookies.

How do I make my Hot Chocolate Cookies more chocolatey?

You can add extra cocoa powder or chocolate chips to intensify the chocolate flavor in your cookies.

What can I use instead of vegan marshmallows?

If you can’t find vegan marshmallows, try using fruit-flavored gummy candies or cutting up soft chocolate candies as an alternative.

Can I make these Hot Chocolate Cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

How do I store leftover Hot Chocolate Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

What makes these cookies unique?

The combination of hot cocoa mix and mini vegan marshmallows creates a deliciously chewy and cozy experience that resembles sipping hot chocolate!

Final Thoughts

Hot Chocolate Cookies are not only delightful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various mix-ins like nuts or spices. Try this recipe today and indulge in these warm, festive treats!