Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Cookies

Indulge in Winter Bliss: Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Cookies

As winter blankets the world in a soft layer of snow, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a mug of hot cocoa. Now, imagine transforming that cozy sensation into a delightful treat – Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Cookies! These soft and decadent cookies capture the essence of a winter evening by combining the richness of hot cocoa with the gooey goodness of marshmallows. Join us on a culinary journey as we guide you through crafting these delectable cookies, complete with cook notes, creative variations, and keto-friendly options for a treat that suits every palate.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup mini marshmallows

For the Hot Cocoa Drizzle:

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 3 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Cookie Creation:

  1. Butter and Sugar Bliss: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Eggstravaganza: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
  3. Dry Ensemble: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Cocoa Fusion: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, blending until a soft and cohesive dough forms.
  5. Chill Time: Wrap the cookie dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to enhance flavors and ease handling.

2. Preheat and Shape:

  1. Oven Warm-Up: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Dough Divination: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each for spreading.
  3. Marshmallow Marvel: Gently press a few mini marshmallows into the center of each cookie ball.

3. Bake and Cool:

  1. Baking Ballet: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set. The marshmallows will puff up and turn golden.
  2. Cooling Calm: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

4. Drizzle Delight:

  1. Cocoa Elegance: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract to create a smooth and pourable cocoa drizzle.
  2. Drizzling Finesse: Drizzle the cocoa mixture over the cooled cookies, adding an artistic touch that mimics the elegance of a steaming cup of hot cocoa.

Cook Notes

  • Marshmallow Maintenance: If the marshmallows start to brown too quickly in the oven, cover the cookies loosely with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.
  • Cookie Consistency: For a softer texture, slightly underbake the cookies. If you prefer a firmer bite, extend the baking time by a minute or two.
  • Cocoa Drizzle Thickness: Adjust the thickness of the cocoa drizzle by adding more milk for a thinner consistency or more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze.

Variations

1. Peppermint Pizazz:

  • Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the cocoa drizzle for a festive and minty twist.

2. Nutty Nirvana:

  • Add a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the cookie dough for a delightful crunch.

3. White Chocolate Wonderland:

  • Drizzle or dip the cooled cookies in melted white chocolate for an extra layer of sweetness.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

1. Almond Flour Alchemy:

  • Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a low-carb alternative. Adjust the quantity as needed.

2. Sugar-Free Sweetening:

  • Substitute granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener in both the cookie dough and the cocoa drizzle.

3. Keto Marshmallow Marvel:

  • Look for sugar-free or keto-friendly marshmallows or omit them altogether for a lower-carb option.

In conclusion, these Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Cookies are more than a treat; they’re a celebration of winter warmth and the joyous flavors that accompany the season. As you savor each bite, let the combination of rich cocoa, gooey marshmallows, and the delicate drizzle transport you to a fireside nook with a steaming mug in hand.

Whether you’re sharing these cookies with loved ones, leaving them for Santa, or enjoying them as a moment of self-indulgence, these treats are bound to evoke the enchantment of the holidays. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and embark on a journey of winter bliss through the delightful world of Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Cookies. Happy baking!