Looking for a sweet treat that warms your heart? These hot chocolate cookies are a delightful combination of rich chocolate flavor and soft, chewy goodness. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies will transport you to a cozy winter evening with every bite. Whether enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa or shared with friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 10-12 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Total Fat: 7g
– Saturated Fat: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Sugar: 10g
– Protein: 2g
This nutritional information is based on one cookie.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows (if using).
- Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute unsweetened applesauce for half the butter for a healthier version. Dark chocolate chips can replace semi-sweet for a richer flavor, and gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free option.
Serving and Pairings
These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk, a cup of hot cocoa, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a delightful addition to holiday cookie platters.
Storage and Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes for that fresh-baked taste.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the dough, as it can lead to tough cookies.
- Ensure your butter is softened, not melted, for the right texture.
- Do not skip chilling the dough if it’s too sticky.
- Monitor baking time closely to avoid overbaking.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizes.
- Let the cookies cool enough before transferring them to avoid breakage.
- Check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer for accuracy.
Helpful Tips
- For a fun twist, add peppermint extract for a seasonal flavor.
- Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, like white or milk chocolate.
- Try adding chopped nuts for extra crunch.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Always taste the dough before baking to adjust sweetness.
FAQs
Can I use cocoa powder instead of melted chocolate?
Yes, cocoa powder is a great alternative to melted chocolate, especially in cookie recipes. It provides a rich chocolate flavor.
How do I make the cookies softer?
To achieve softer cookies, underbake them slightly and add a bit more moisture, such as an extra egg yolk.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months. Just scoop it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag.
What can I substitute for eggs?
Flaxseed meal mixed with water or unsweetened applesauce can be used as egg substitutes in cookies.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.
Conclusion
These hot chocolate cookies are a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of hot cocoa with the satisfaction of freshly baked cookies. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, they are sure to become a beloved favorite in your home.
Hot Chocolate Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows (if using).
- Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
