Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe

Introduction

There’s something magical about the holiday season, especially when it comes to the aromas wafting through the kitchen. One of my all-time favorite treats is a delicious cookie that captures the essence of hot chocolate. These Hot Chocolate Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with gooey marshmallow centers, reminiscent of the comforting drink we all love. My family raved about these cookies as they devoured them, with the chocolatey flavor complemented by the marshmallow surprise inside. The kids couldn’t get enough, and I found myself sneaking a few more than I intended! If you’re looking for a delightful dessert to impress your loved ones, this recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 large egg
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons whole milk (or 2% or almond milk)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened chocolate chips (plus more for topping)
• Marshmallows (for stuffing)
• Chocolate syrup or melted chocolate for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt until well combined. This mixture creates the perfect foundation for your cookies.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
   In another bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, egg, and milk. Beat until creamy and smooth. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients, and then fold in the chocolate chips to create a thick cookie dough.
3. Chill the Dough:
   Cover the dough with plastic wrap and freeze for 20 minutes or refrigerate for 1 hour. Chilling the dough will help the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
4. Preheat the Oven:
   While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
5. Shape the Cookies:
   After chilling, roll the dough into balls and flatten them slightly. Place a chopped marshmallow in the center of each dough ball and wrap the dough around it, ensuring the marshmallow is completely enclosed. Top with more chocolate chips.
6. Freeze Before Baking:
   Freeze the stuffed dough balls for another 20 minutes before baking. This extra chilling time helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents them from spreading too much in the oven.
7. Bake the Cookies:
   Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. They should be set around the edges but still soft in the center. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to harden slightly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Optional Decoration:
   Drizzle the cooled cookies with chocolate syrup or melted chocolate, then let the drizzle harden before serving. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and makes them visually appealing.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12 cookies
• Calories per serving: Approximately 180 calories

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour and 40 minutes (including chilling time)
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm for the ultimate gooey experience.
• Pair with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of hot chocolate.
• Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty contrast.
• Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
• Share with friends and family for a delightful treat!

Additional Tips

1. Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips will significantly enhance the flavor of your cookies.
2. Don’t Skip Chilling: Proper chilling of the dough is crucial for the right texture and shape of the cookies.
3. Experiment with Fillings: Instead of marshmallows, try stuffing the cookies with peanut butter or caramel for a different twist.
4. Monitor Baking Time: Every oven is different; keep an eye on the cookies to prevent over-baking.
5. Store Properly: Keep the cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and moisture.

Recipe Variations

• Nutty Chocolate Cookies: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
• Mint Chocolate Cookies: Incorporate mint extract or crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch.
• Double Chocolate Cookies: Increase the cocoa powder to 1/2 cup and add white chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
• Spicy Hot Chocolate Cookies: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a warm, spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a beautiful presentation.
• Pair with ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Create a dessert platter with other holiday cookies for a festive gathering.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed?
   Yes, regular cocoa powder will work, but the flavor may differ slightly.
2. What can I substitute for butter?
   You can use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a vegan option.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
4. How can I make these cookies more chocolatey?
   Increase the amount of chocolate chips or add cocoa powder to the dough.
5. What if I don’t have marshmallows?
   You can substitute with caramel candies or chocolate fudge filling.
6. How do I prevent cookies from spreading?
   Ensure your dough is well-chilled before baking, and don’t skip the freeze time.
7. Can I freeze the baked cookies?
   Yes, once completely cooled, place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
8. How should I store leftover cookies?
   Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
9. What’s the best way to reheat cookies?
   Microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at a low temperature.
10. Are these cookies safe for kids?
    Yes, they are kid-friendly, but monitor for any allergies to chocolate or other ingredients.

Conclusion

These Hot Chocolate Cookies are more than just a dessert; they are a delightful experience that encapsulates the warmth and joy of the holiday season. With their soft texture, gooey marshmallow centers, and chocolatey goodness, they are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or just to enjoy with loved ones, these cookies will bring smiles to faces and warmth to hearts. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and indulge in the magic of baking with this delightful recipe. Enjoy every gooey bite!

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