Hot Chocolate Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the rich, comforting flavors of hot chocolate in cookie form. With a soft, chewy texture and gooey chocolate centers, these cookies are perfect for cozy evenings or holiday gatherings!

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
• 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional, for that hot chocolate touch)

Timing

Making Hot Chocolate Cookies takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 10-12 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Add Chocolate and Marshmallows

1. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Cool the Cookies: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Enjoy: Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy your delicious hot chocolate cookies!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Hot Chocolate Cookies (per cookie, based on 24 cookies):

Nutrient	Amount per Cookie
Calories	150
Protein	2g
Fat	7g
Carbohydrates	22g
Sugar	10g

Tips for Customization

• Add Nuts: Consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Different Chocolates: Use a mix of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate, for varied flavors.
• Peppermint Twist: For a festive touch, add crushed peppermint candies or peppermint extract to the dough.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Hot Chocolate Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Hot Chocolate Cookies are a delightful blend of chocolatey goodness and nostalgic flavors. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, these cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends!

FAQs

Can I use cocoa powder instead of chocolate chips?

While cocoa powder is essential for the cookie base, chocolate chips add extra richness. It’s best to keep the chips for optimal flavor and texture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping and baking.

What can I serve with these cookies?

These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk, hot chocolate, or coffee for a cozy treat.