Warm Up with Hot Chocolate Marshmallow Cookies

Introduction

There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate and marshmallows, especially during the colder months. These Hot Chocolate Marshmallow Cookies have quickly become a family favorite in our home. Every time I bake a batch, the air fills with the warm, inviting scent of chocolate, instantly lifting our spirits. My kids love the gooey marshmallows on top, and the rich, chocolaty flavor makes these cookies irresistible. Whether enjoyed with a warm cup of cocoa or as an afternoon treat, these cookies bring joy and comfort to every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup mini marshmallows
• Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

1. Cream the Butter and Sugars:

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

1. Add Eggs and Vanilla:

• Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture and blend until well combined.

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.

1. Fold in Chocolate Chips (Optional):

• If using, fold in the optional chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey treat.

1. Chill the Dough:

• Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to make it easier to handle.

1. Form the Cookies:

• Form the dough into 1 ½-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each.

1. Add the Marshmallows:

• Press 2-3 mini marshmallows into the top of each cookie ball.

1. Bake the Cookies:

• Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.

1. Cool and Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories per cookie: 186 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm with a glass of milk or a cup of hot chocolate.
• Top with extra marshmallows or whipped cream for a festive touch.
• Enjoy as a delightful dessert or sweet afternoon snack.

Additional Tips

1. Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with the sugars.
2. Chilling the Dough: Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking, giving you thicker, chewier cookies.
3. Quality Cocoa: Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
4. Marshmallow Placement: Press the marshmallows in gently but firmly so they stick during baking.
5. Baking in Batches: If you’re making a large batch, keep the remaining dough chilled until ready to bake.

Recipe Variations

• Mint Chocolate: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract for a festive minty flavor.
• Nutty Twist: Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Spicy Hot Chocolate: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a spicy kick.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Serve at holiday gatherings or cookie exchanges for a festive treat.
• Create cookie sandwiches with frosting or additional chocolate spread in between.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: The cookie dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Scoop the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• Baked Cookies: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavor.

2. What can I substitute for the eggs?
You can use flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) as a substitute for each egg.

3. Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes, but cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they melt properly and fit on the cookies.

4. How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough helps, as does ensuring your butter is not too soft. You can also try adding a bit more flour.

5. Can I make these cookies without cocoa powder?
Yes, you can omit the cocoa powder for regular cookies, but adjust the flour amount slightly to maintain consistency.

6. What kind of chocolate chips work best?
This is up to personal preference! Milk, dark, or white chocolate chips all pair well with the cookies.

7. How can I tell when the cookies are done?
The edges should be set, and the centers may look slightly underbaked but will firm up as they cool.

8. Can I bake these cookies on a silicone baking mat?
Yes, silicone mats work well for baking cookies and can help prevent sticking.

9. What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour until it’s manageable.

10. How do I make these cookies more festive?
Add colorful sprinkles to the dough or on top of the marshmallows before baking!

Conclusion

These Hot Chocolate Marshmallow Cookies are more than just a treat; they evoke warmth and nostalgia with every bite. Perfect for chilly days, holiday gatherings, or simply when you crave something sweet, these cookies are a delightful twist on traditional chocolate chip cookies. With their gooey marshmallow tops and rich chocolate flavor, they are sure to become a favorite in your home, just as they have in mine. So gather your ingredients, invite the family to help, and enjoy the heartwarming experience of baking together. Happy baking!

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