Hot Chocolate Cookies recipe

Nothing says cozy winter evenings like a batch of freshly baked Hot Chocolate Cookies. These cookies capture the nostalgic, comforting taste of a classic hot cocoa, complete with gooey bits of chocolate and delightful Mallow Bits that mimic mini marshmallows melting in a warm cup. Perfect for holiday gatherings or just a personal treat by the fire, these cookies bring all the flavor of your favorite hot drink in a soft, indulgent bite.

Each Hot Chocolate Cookie has a rich chocolatey base that’s perfectly balanced with just the right amount of sweetness from both brown and granulated sugar. The hot cocoa mix gives these cookies a uniquely deep flavor, while the chocolate chips add bursts of richness. With a touch of Mallow Bits in every cookie, these treats are as fun as they are delicious and will quickly become a holiday staple.

Whether you’re looking to impress at a cookie exchange or just want a comforting dessert to accompany a night in, these Hot Chocolate Cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The recipe is simple, fun to make, and promises warm, chocolatey goodness in every bite.

Key Ingredients for Hot Chocolate Cookies

  • Butter – Adds richness and softness to each cookie, giving them a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Granulated Sugar – Balances the sweetness and adds a slight crispness to the edges.
  • Brown Sugar – Contributes to a chewy texture and a subtle molasses flavor that complements the chocolate.
  • Hot Cocoa Mix – The star ingredient, infusing each cookie with the iconic taste of hot chocolate.
  • All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure while allowing the cookies to remain soft and tender.
  • Chocolate Chips – Bring bursts of intense chocolate flavor and gooey texture when melted.
  • Mallow Bits – These add the perfect marshmallowy touch without melting too much, creating an authentic hot chocolate vibe.

How to Make These Cozy Hot Chocolate Cookies

  1. In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
  2. In another bowl, combine the flour, hot cocoa mix, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, blending until everything is evenly incorporated. Fold in the chocolate chips and Mallow Bits, then cover and chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
  3. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking. Drop 2-tablespoon portions of dough onto the sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
  4. Bake the cookies for 9 to 11 minutes, just until the edges are lightly browned. Let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Hot Chocolate Cookies

  • Don’t Skip Chilling: Chilling the dough helps the cookies retain their shape and gives them a slightly thicker texture.
  • Measure Flour Carefully: Too much flour can make the cookies dense. To get the right amount, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off.
  • Mallow Bits Placement: If you notice inconsistent melting of the Mallow Bits, try adding them to the dough after chilling or pressing them into the dough balls just before baking for a more defined marshmallow look.
  • Customize Cookie Thickness: For flatter cookies, use 3 cups of flour. For thicker, fluffier cookies, stick to 3 1/4 cups and don’t skip the chilling step.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

For an extra decadent twist, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt to the tops of the cookies before baking for a sweet-salty flavor combination. Or, stir in a tablespoon of dark cocoa powder for a richer chocolate profile. Serve these Hot Chocolate Cookies with a warm mug of hot cocoa or a chilled glass of milk to enhance the cozy vibes.

How to Store Your Leftover Hot Chocolate Cookies

To keep these cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you’d like to make a large batch ahead of time, you can freeze the dough before baking; simply roll it into dough balls, chill, and freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, let them thaw slightly and bake as directed.