Hot Cocoa Cookies with Marshmallow Frosting

why make this recipe

Hot Cocoa Cookies with Marshmallow Frosting are perfect for bringing warmth to cold days. They combine the comforting flavors of rich chocolate and sweet marshmallow, much like a cozy mug of hot cocoa. These cookies are great for special occasions like holidays or simply when you want a delightful treat. Their soft texture and festive look will surely impress your friends and family.

how to make Hot Cocoa Cookies with Marshmallow Frosting

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed preferred)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup mini marshmallows (optional for mix-in)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened, for frosting)
• 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme or fluff
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for consistency)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips and optional mini marshmallows for an extra treat.
7. Scoop 1 ½-tablespoon portions of the dough onto the baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
8. Chill the dough balls in the fridge for 30 minutes to make thicker cookies (this step is optional).
9. Bake the cookies for 9-10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain slightly soft.
10. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
11. While cooling, prepare the frosting by beating the softened butter until creamy. Mix in the marshmallow creme until smooth.
12. Gradually add powdered sugar, mix in vanilla extract, and whip until fluffy.
13. Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cookies.
14. For a fun touch, drizzle melted chocolate or sprinkle crushed candy canes on top.

how to serve Hot Cocoa Cookies with Marshmallow Frosting

Serve these cookies on a festive plate for a special occasion or enjoy them with a glass of milk or hot cocoa for a cozy night in. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family during holiday gatherings or simply as a sweet snack anytime.

how to store Hot Cocoa Cookies with Marshmallow Frosting

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to stay fresh longer, you can also keep them in the fridge. For best results, separate the cookies with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

tips to make Hot Cocoa Cookies with Marshmallow Frosting

• Make sure your butter is softened for easier mixing.
• Chill the dough if you prefer thicker cookies; this helps them hold their shape while baking.
• Use Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
• Feel free to add chocolate chips or mini marshmallows into the dough for extra goodness.

variation

You can add crushed nuts or swap out the mini marshmallows for peppermint pieces to give these cookies a festive twist.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes! You can freeze the baked cookies or the unbaked dough. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

2. Can I use other types of frosting?

Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting or buttercream would also pair well with these cookies if you want a change.

3. How can I make the cookies more chocolatey?

You can increase the amount of cocoa powder or add chocolate chunks in addition to the chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate flavor.

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