Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe

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If you have a soft spot for cookies that feel like a cozy hug in dessert form, you absolutely have to try this Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe. Imagine biting into a tender, chocolatey cookie infused with the rich warmth of hot cocoa mix, studded with melty chocolate chips and chewy mallow bits that perfectly capture the nostalgia of a steaming cup of hot chocolate on a chilly day. This recipe is the kind of sweet treat that instantly brings comfort and joy, making it an unbeatable crowd-pleaser for any season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is easy, and each one plays a vital role in bringing the cozy, chocolaty magic of these Hot Chocolate Cookies to life. From the creamy butter that provides richness to the secret star ingredient—the hot cocoa mix—that infuses every bite with that beloved flavor, every addition enhances the texture, taste, and look of these delightful cookies.

• 1 cup butter (softened): This adds moisture and richness, making your cookies tender and luscious.
• 1 cup sugar: For that essential sweetness and a slight crunch on the edges.
• 2/3 cup brown sugar: Adds a hint of caramel depth and keeps the cookies soft inside.
• 2 large eggs: Binds everything together and helps with the structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla: Enhances the warm, sweet flavors throughout the dough.
• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for the cookie’s perfect chew and shape.
• 4 packages hot cocoa mix (or approx. 3/4 cups non-sugar-free): The magical ingredient that gives the cookies their distinctive, cozy hot chocolate taste.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies flavor.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and develop a tender crumb.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Adds lift and lightness for the perfect texture.
• 1 cup chocolate chips: Little pockets of melty goodness enhance every bite.
• 1 cup Mallow Bits: These chewy bits deliver soft marshmallow bites without the sticky mess that mini marshmallows would create.

How to Make Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugars

Start by beating the softened butter with both sugars in a large bowl until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process aerates the butter, ensuring your cookies will be tender and have a wonderful crumb. Once creamy, add the eggs and vanilla, mixing well until everything is beautifully combined and a little glossy.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, hot cocoa mix, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. This dry blend forms the chocolate-flavored base and provides the structure for your cookies. Gradually incorporate this mixture into the butter and sugar bowl, beating gently until just blended—this prevents overmixing, which could toughen your cookies. Then fold in the chocolate chips and Mallow Bits for that irresistible chewy melt.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Cover the cookie dough and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, and up to 24 hours. This rest period allows the flavors to deepen and the dough to firm up, which helps the cookies bake evenly and maintain their shape without spreading too thin.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to drop about 2 tablespoons of dough onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone mats, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake the cookies for 9 to 11 minutes, keeping an eye out for lightly browned edges. Once done, let them cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. This finishing step locks in their softness while allowing the edges to crisp just right.

How to Serve Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra festive touch, sprinkle a few extra Mallow Bits on top right after baking. You could also drizzle some melted white or dark chocolate over the cookies once cooled for a pretty presentation that adds a new dimension of flavor.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a warm mug of your favorite hot chocolate for a double dose of cozy chocolate goodness. Serving alongside a bowl of fresh berries can also offer a refreshing contrast to the rich cookie flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking several cookies and tying them up with a ribbon for gift-giving, or arrange them on a festive platter surrounded by mini marshmallows and chocolate shavings. You can even sandwich your cookies with a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream for a playful twist that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Hot Chocolate Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay soft and chewy for up to five days. Adding a slice of bread to the container helps maintain moisture and prevents the cookies from drying out.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep well for up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature for a fresh-baked taste anytime you crave them.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy them warm, pop the cookies in a microwave for about 10 seconds or heat them in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes. This makes the chocolate chips melt just enough and warms the marshmallow bits perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of hot cocoa mix?

Hot cocoa mix contains sugar and other ingredients that add sweetness and depth, so simply swapping in regular cocoa powder might result in less sweet cookies. If you decide to use cocoa powder, you’ll likely need to increase the sugar to compensate.

What if I don’t have Mallow Bits? Can I use mini marshmallows instead?

Mini marshmallows tend to melt into a sticky mess during baking, so they’re not the best substitute. Mallow Bits are specially made to hold their shape and texture when baked, giving you those delightful chewy pockets.

How do I know when the Hot Chocolate Cookies are done?

Look for lightly browned edges and a soft, slightly underbaked center. They may seem a bit soft when you take them out, but they’ll set as they cool, giving you that perfect tender chew.

Can I make the dough ahead of time? How long can it chill?

Absolutely! You can chill the dough anywhere from 30 minutes up to 24 hours before baking, which even enhances the flavor. Just keep it covered tightly to prevent drying out.

Can this recipe be doubled or halved easily?

Yes, this recipe scales well. Just remember to keep an eye on baking time and spacing the cookies appropriately on your sheets when baking larger batches.

Final Thoughts

This Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe is a warm, comforting way to bring that nostalgic hot cocoa feeling into a fun and delicious cookie form. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, gifting to someone you love, or simply indulging yourself, these cookies deliver charm and chocolatey delight in every bite. I hope you enjoy making and sharing them as much as I do!

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