Hot Cocoa Cookies

Hot Cocoa Cookies are a delightful treat that brings the warmth of cocoa and the charm of cookies together. Perfect for winter gatherings or cozy nights at home, these cookies combine rich chocolate flavors with the fun texture of marshmallows. Their unique blend makes them a favorite for all occasions, from holiday parties to family dessert nights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple steps and common ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of hot cocoa mix and chocolate chips creates a rich and indulgent flavor profile that satisfies sweet cravings.
• Versatile: These cookies are perfect for various occasions, whether you’re seeking a festive treat or a casual snack.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids can help with mixing and decorating, making this a great baking project for family time.
• Marshmallow Magic: The addition of vegan marshmallows adds a delightful chewy texture that enhances the cookie experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Hot Cocoa Cookies, gather the essential tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when beating butter and sugars until fluffy, ensuring a light texture.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking to the baking sheet, allowing for easy cookie removal without mess.

Ingredients

Hot Cocoa Cookies, the original recipe for Hot Cocoa Cookies found on the back of the Jet-Puffed vegan marshmallows Bits container!

For the Dough

• 1 1/4 cup Butter
• 1 cup Sugar
• 2/3 cup Brown Sugar
• 2 Eggs
• 1 tsp Vanilla

Dry Ingredients

• 3 1/4 cups Flour
• 4 packets Instant Hot Cocoa Mix
• 1 1/4 tsp Baking Soda
• 1 tsp Baking Powder

Mix-Ins

• 1 cup Chocolate Chips
• 1 cup Jet-Puffed vegan marshmallows Bits

How to Make Hot Cocoa Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add in eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, blending well after each addition.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, hot cocoa mix, baking soda, and baking powder until well mixed.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Mixture

Gradually add the dry mixture into your creamed mixture. Beat until everything is well combined and forms a dough.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips and Marshmallows

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and Jet-Puffed vegan marshmallows bits until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Scoop Cookie Dough onto Baking Sheet

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough balls about 2 tablespoons in size onto your prepared baking sheets. Leave enough space between each ball as they will spread while baking.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 9 minutes. Once out of the oven, press additional chocolate chips and Jet-Puffed vegan marshmallows bits on top while they are still warm for an extra touch!

How to Serve Hot Cocoa Cookies

Hot Cocoa Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or enjoying a quiet night at home, these cookies are sure to please.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pairing these cookies with a glass of cold milk enhances their rich chocolate flavor and creamy texture, making each bite even more satisfying.

Warm with Whipped Cream

• Serve the cookies warm and top them with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience that feels extra special.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange Hot Cocoa Cookies alongside other sweet treats like brownies and fruit tarts for a colorful dessert platter perfect for celebrations.

With Hot Cocoa

• For an ultimate chocolate experience, enjoy the cookies alongside a steaming cup of hot cocoa. Add marshmallows on top for extra fun!

In Lunchboxes

• These cookies make a great addition to kids’ lunchboxes, providing a sweet surprise that pairs well with fruits and snacks.

How to Perfect Hot Cocoa Cookies

Making the perfect Hot Cocoa Cookies is easier than you think! Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensuring that your butter and eggs are at room temperature helps create a smooth batter and results in fluffier cookies.
• Don’t overmix the dough – Gently combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Chill the dough – For even better texture, refrigerate the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Add extra chocolate chips – Fold in additional chocolate chips just before baking for gooey bites filled with rich chocolate flavor.
• Monitor baking time – Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; removing them from the oven just as they start to set will yield soft, chewy cookies.
• Store properly – To keep your Hot Cocoa Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Cocoa Cookies

Hot Cocoa Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes, making your dessert spread even more delicious. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies while adding vibrant colors to your plate.
2. Cheese Platter – Including mild cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, enhancing your tasting experience.
3. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side that complements the rich flavors of the cookies.
4. Nut Mix – A simple blend of roasted nuts adds crunch and nutrition, making it an excellent accompaniment for snacking.
5. Ice Cream – Serve vanilla or chocolate ice cream alongside warm cookies for an irresistible dessert combo that’s perfect any time of year.
6. Pancakes – Fluffy pancakes drizzled with syrup can be a fun breakfast option served alongside these delightful cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Hot Cocoa Cookies can be fun, but there are common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Bold measurement errors: Using incorrect measurements can ruin your cookie texture. Always use a kitchen scale for precise ingredient amounts.
• Bold underbaking cookies: If you take the cookies out too early, they may not set properly. Bake until the edges are firm but the centers are still soft.
• Bold forgetting to chill dough: Chilling your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading. This ensures thicker cookies that hold their shape.
• Bold not using parchment paper: Skipping parchment paper can lead to sticking and burnt bottoms. Always line your baking sheet for easy removal.
• Bold neglecting to preheat oven: Failing to preheat can result in uneven baking. Make sure your oven reaches the desired temperature before placing your cookies inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Hot Cocoa Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hot Cocoa Cookies

• To freeze, place cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be kept frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Hot Cocoa Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on low power for about 10-15 seconds to maintain moisture.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for a couple of minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Hot Cocoa Cookies.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips in Hot Cocoa Cookies?

Yes! You can substitute dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips based on your preference.

How do I know when my Hot Cocoa Cookies are done?

Look for golden edges with slightly soft centers. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool.

Can Hot Cocoa Cookies be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend to make them gluten-free.

What can I add to customize my Hot Cocoa Cookies?

You can add nuts, dried fruits, or different flavored extracts for unique twists on this recipe!

Are Hot Cocoa Cookies suitable for kids?

Yes! These cookies are perfect for kids and make a delightful treat during any season.

Final Thoughts

Hot Cocoa Cookies offer a delightful blend of chocolatey goodness and marshmallow fluffiness that appeals to all ages. Their versatility allows for endless customization options, making them perfect for any occasion. Try adding your favorite mix-ins or adjusting the sweetness level to suit your tastes!