Warm, chocolatey, and oh-so-satisfying, these hot cocoa cookies are a delightful treat that brings the comfort of a steaming cup of cocoa right into cookie form. With a soft, chewy texture and a rich chocolate flavor, they are perfect for chilly days or festive gatherings. Topped with marshmallows and a drizzle of chocolate, they offer a nostalgic taste of winter that everyone will love. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips
– Mini marshmallows for topping
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 12 cookies. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 12-15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each cookie (approximately 1 serving) contains about 150 calories, 8g fat, 20g carbohydrates, and 2g protein. This is based on a standard serving size of one cookie.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips gently.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a lined baking sheet.
8. Top each cookie with a few mini marshmallows.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until set.
10. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Additionally, coconut sugar can replace brown sugar for a healthier alternative. Use dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan version.
Serving and Pairings
These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk, a warm cup of cocoa, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They make great gifts and are perfect for holiday gatherings!
Storage and Reheating
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them warm.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip the baking soda; it helps the cookies rise.
- Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, for the right texture.
- Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; leave space between cookies.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring to avoid breaking.
Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for richer flavor.
- Experiment with adding peppermint extract for a festive twist.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
- Add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
You can use chopped chocolate, white chocolate chips, or even dried fruit for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should look set and slightly soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.
Conclusion
These hot cocoa cookies are a delightful treat that combines the beloved flavors of hot chocolate with the comforting texture of cookies. Perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own, they are sure to become a holiday favorite. Happy baking!
Hot Cocoa Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- Mini marshmallows for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips gently.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a lined baking sheet.
- Top each cookie with a few mini marshmallows.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until set.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
