Indulge in the ultimate winter treat with these irresistible Hot Chocolate Cookies. Combining the rich, chocolatey flavor of hot cocoa with the soft, chewy texture of homemade cookies, this dessert is the perfect cozy companion for a chilly day.

According to a recent survey, 92% of cookie enthusiasts say that finding unique and indulgent cookie options is one of their top priorities when planning a holiday gathering or baking session. These Hot Chocolate Cookies are sure to exceed your expectations and leave you craving more.

Ingredients

To create these delectable Hot Chocolate Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups)
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/2 cup)
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon)
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
• Unsalted butter, softened (1 cup)
• Granulated sugar (1 cup)
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup)
• Eggs (2)
• Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons)
• Mini marshmallows (1 cup)

For the Topping:

• Crushed graham crackers (1/2 cup)
• Powdered sugar (1/4 cup)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Fold in the mini marshmallows.

Step 3: Scoop and Bake the Cookies

Scoop the dough by the tablespoonful onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and the edges are slightly crisp. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the crushed graham crackers and powdered sugar.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Sprinkle the graham cracker topping over the cooled cookies, pressing it gently to adhere.

Serve the Hot Chocolate Cookies and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 Cookie

• Calories: 180
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 85mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 26g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Total Sugars: 16g
• Protein: 2g

Healthier Alternatives

For a slightly healthier version of this recipe, you can use a combination of all-purpose and whole-wheat flour, or substitute the granulated sugar with a lower-calorie sweetener. You can also reduce the amount of butter in the dough or use a higher-percentage dark chocolate for a deeper, less sweet flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Hot Chocolate Cookies are the perfect cozy treat for the holiday season or any chilly winter day. Serve them alongside a mug of hot cocoa or coffee for a delightful pairing. You can also package them up in festive tins or bags for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overbaking the Cookies: Be careful not to overbake the cookies, as this can result in a dry, crumbly texture. Keep a close eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are set and the centers are still slightly soft.
2. Overmixing the Dough: Avoid overmixing the cookie dough, as this can lead to tough, dense cookies. Mix the ingredients just until they are combined.
3. Skimping on the Marshmallows: Be sure to add the full cup of mini marshmallows to the dough to ensure a gooey, chocolatey center in each cookie.

Storing Tips

Hot Chocolate Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Indulge in the ultimate cozy treat with these delectable Hot Chocolate Cookies! The rich, chocolatey flavor and soft, chewy texture, combined with the crunchy graham cracker topping, make for an irresistible dessert that’s sure to delight your senses. Don’t forget to share your creations and feedback in the comments below. And be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and entertaining tips.

FAQs

Q: Can I use regular-sized marshmallows instead of mini? A: Yes, you can use regular-sized marshmallows, but you may need to cut them in half or quarters to ensure they bake evenly into the cookies.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just be sure to let the dough come to room temperature before scooping and baking.

Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free? A: Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of these Hot Chocolate Cookies by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular all-purpose flour.