Marshmallow Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies Recipe

Why This Recipe Works

Marshmallow Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies shine with a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The buttery cookie base, infused with chocolate and cocoa, creates a rich foundation. When you add melty marshmallows and a drizzle of chocolate, you get a warm and gooey experience in every bite. Chilling the dough ensures that the cookies hold their shape and remain thick and chewy rather than spreading too much while baking.

Why you should try this recipe

These cookies are a fun twist on classic treats! With their surprise marshmallow center and chocolate coating, they are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or whenever you want to indulge your sweet tooth. Plus, making these cookies is a great way to involve the whole family in baking. Everyone will enjoy the sweet aroma that fills your kitchen and the delicious cookies that come out of the oven.

How to make Marshmallow Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 and 1/2 cups (188g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1/3 cup (27g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup (40g) dry hot cocoa mix
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons (10ml) milk (any kind, dairy or nondairy, is fine)
• 10–11 large marshmallows, cut in half
• 8 ounces (226g) semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Whisk
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Wire rack
• Heat-proof bowl for melting chocolate

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together on medium-high speed until fluffy and light in color, about 2–3 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla, then beat on high speed until combined. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
2. In another bowl, whisk the flour, cocoa powder, hot cocoa mix, baking soda, and salt together until combined.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Beat on low until combined. The cookie dough will be thick and sticky. Finally, beat in the milk.
4. Chilling the sticky cookie dough is important. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
6. Scoop and roll dough into balls, about 1 heaping tablespoon (25-26g) each. Place them 2–3 inches apart on the baking sheets.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove the cookies from the oven and press a marshmallow half into the top of each cookie. Bake for an additional 2 minutes.
8. Remove from the oven and gently flatten the marshmallow using the back of a spoon.
9. Let the cookies cool on a wire rack completely.
10. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or microwave in 20-second increments, stirring until smooth. Spoon the melted chocolate over each cooled marshmallow-topped cookie.
11. The chocolate will set at room temperature in 30-60 minutes.

How to serve Marshmallow Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies

Serve these cookies warm or at room temperature. They are delightful on their own or paired with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of cocoa. They make a lovely treat for any occasion!

How to store Marshmallow Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn.

Tips & Tricks

• Make sure your butter is properly softened for the best texture. It should be soft enough to make an indent with your finger, but not melted.
• Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the cookies maintain their shape and chewiness.
• If you love a nutty twist, consider adding chopped nuts to the dough.

Variations & Substitutions

• For a different flavor, use white chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate.
• You can substitute the marshmallows with chocolate chips or chunks if you prefer.
• Experiment with flavored hot cocoa mixes for a unique taste.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes! Use vegan butter and non-dairy milk to make these cookies dairy-free.

What can I use instead of cocoa powder?
You can try carob powder as a caffeine-free alternative to cocoa powder.

Can I add nuts to the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add great flavor and crunch.

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