Name: Miniature Hot Chocolate Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (room temperature); 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (reserve some for topping); 1/3 cup Brown Sugar (plus 1 heaping tablespoon); 1 Large Egg; 3/4 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour; 1 tablespoon Cocoa Powder (plus 1 teaspoon); 1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1/8 teaspoon Salt; 24 Mini Marshmallows; Finely Chopped Chocolate (optional for topping)

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There’s something incredibly cozy about the winter months, especially when you combine the magic of hot chocolate with the warm embrace of freshly baked cookies. Enter the Miniature Hot Chocolate Cookies. These delightful treats are like a hug in cookie form, combining the rich flavors of chocolate with the nostalgic taste of hot cocoa topped with mini marshmallows. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or as a sweet surprise for your loved ones, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Miniature Hot Chocolate Cookies deserve a spot in your baking collection for several reasons. First, they are irresistibly cute and packed with flavor, making them a hit for both kids and adults alike. Second, they are quick to whip up, taking less than an hour from start to finish. Finally, they provide a warm and comforting treat that captures the essence of winter festivities. Each bite is a perfect blend of chocolate and nostalgia, making them the ultimate winter indulgence.

Ingredient Notes

Unsalted Butter: 3 tablespoons (1.5 oz) of unsalted butter provides a rich flavor and helps to create a tender cookie. Make sure to let it come to room temperature for easy mixing.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: 1 cup (6 oz) of semi-sweet chocolate chips adds sweetness and a deep chocolate flavor. Reserve some for topping!
Brown Sugar: 1/3 cup + 1 heaping tablespoon (85g) of brown sugar gives the cookies a moist texture and enhances their caramel notes.
Large Egg: One large egg binds the ingredients together, providing structure and moisture.
Vanilla Extract: 3/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract adds depth and enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup (70g) of all-purpose flour is the base for these cookies. It gives them the right amount of structure without being too dense.
Cocoa Powder: 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon (10g) of cocoa powder intensifies the chocolate flavor and gives the cookies a rich, dark color.
Baking Powder: 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder helps the cookies rise slightly, making them perfectly soft and chewy.
Salt: 1/8 teaspoon of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
Mini Marshmallows: 24 mini marshmallows are essential for that classic hot chocolate experience, adding a delightful gooeyness.
Finely Chopped Chocolate (optional): For an extra touch, top the cookies with finely chopped chocolate for a gourmet feel.

Equipment at a Glance

Mixing Bowl: For combining your ingredients.
Whisk: To mix the wet ingredients smoothly.
Spatula: For folding in the dry ingredients and chocolate chips.
Baking Sheet: A lined baking sheet will prevent the cookies from sticking.
Oven: Preheat to ensure even baking.

Build Miniature Hot Chocolate Cookies Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until melted and smooth. Allow it to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted chocolate mixture, 1/3 cup + 1 heaping tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 large egg, and 3/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix. Just combine until you see no more flour.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the remaining 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.

Step 8: Add Mini Marshmallows

Press 1 mini marshmallow into the center of each cookie dough ball. If desired, sprinkle finely chopped chocolate on top for an added touch.

Step 9: Bake

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers look slightly soft. Remember, they will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Miniature Hot Chocolate Cookies warm or at room temperature!

Spring to Winter: Ideas

Serve with a cup of steaming hot cocoa for the ultimate pair.
Gift them in a festive tin to friends and family during the holiday season.
Top with whipped cream and chocolate drizzle for a decadent dessert.
Use them as a base for ice cream sandwiches in the warmer months.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

For a more intense chocolate flavor, you can use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. If you want to add a minty twist, consider incorporating peppermint extract instead of vanilla. Experimenting with different types or brands of cocoa powder can also lead to unique flavor profiles.

Best Ways to Store

To keep your Miniature Hot Chocolate Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Handy Q&A

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?

Absolutely! Using milk chocolate will give your cookies a sweeter flavor, which pairs wonderfully with the marshmallows.

What if I don’t have mini marshmallows?

Don’t worry! You can either omit them or chop up regular marshmallows into smaller pieces. You can also experiment with other toppings like nuts or different types of chocolate.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Your cookies are done when the edges are set, but the centers appear slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

One Pan, More Ideas

The Last Word

Miniature Hot Chocolate Cookies are the embodiment of comfort and joy, perfect for the chilly months ahead. With their rich chocolate flavor and adorable marshmallow topping, they are a delightful treat that brings back warm memories of sipping hot cocoa by the fire. Whether you’re baking them for yourself or sharing them with others, these cookies are sure to spread warmth and happiness. Embrace the season, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of freshly baked cookies fill your home. Happy baking!