Hot Chocolate Cookies

These easy Hot Chocolate Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of winter and the holiday spirit. With real hot cocoa mix included in the dough, these cookies deliver rich chocolate flavor and a soft, chewy texture. Perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday gatherings, or simply as a cozy snack, they are sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy the warmth and sweetness of these cookies during festive occasions or whenever you’re craving something delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of real hot cocoa mix and chocolate chips creates a rich chocolate experience in every bite.
• Festive Appeal: These cookies are perfect for Christmas and holiday cookie exchanges, adding joy to your celebrations.
• Quick to Make: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a batch of delectable cookies in no time.
• Chill Flexibility: You can chill the dough for up to 24 hours, allowing you to prepare ahead and bake when it’s convenient.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Baking these cookies is a fun activity for the whole family; kids will love helping with mixing and decorating!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Hot Chocolate Cookies, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes it easy to beat butter and sugars together until fluffy without much effort.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients ensures better blending and avoids lumps.
• Baking sheets: A good baking sheet helps distribute heat evenly, resulting in perfectly baked cookies.

Ingredients

These easy Hot Chocolate Cookies are always a hit! Made with real hot cocoa, this is always a popular winter or Christmas cookie and is perfect for cookie exchanges.

For the Dough:

• 1 cup butter (softened)
• 1 cup sugar
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 3 1/4 cups all purpose flour
• 4 packages hot cocoa mix (or 3/4 cups hot cocoa mix – NOT SUGAR FREE VERSIONS)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons baking powder

Mix-Ins:

• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup Mallow Bits (mini marshmallows do not work the same and can be a bit of a sticky mess)

How to Make Hot Chocolate Cookies

Step 1: Beat the Butter and Sugars

1. In a large bowl, use your stand mixer to beat together the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then blend in the vanilla extract.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour, hot cocoa mix, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add this dry mixture into the butter-sugar mixture until blended well.

Step 3: Add Mix-Ins

1. Gently stir in chocolate chips and Mallow Bits into the dough until evenly distributed.
2. Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a lid, then chill it in your refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours).

Step 4: Bake Your Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit before you’re ready to bake.
2. Drop about 2 tablespoons of chilled dough onto ungreased baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone mats; leave about 2 inches between each cookie.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
4. Allow cooling on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Enjoy your freshly baked Hot Chocolate Cookies!

How to Serve Hot Chocolate Cookies

Hot Chocolate Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just indulging at home, these cookies can be served to enhance the experience.

With a Warm Beverage

• Hot Cocoa: Pair your cookies with a steaming cup of hot cocoa for a cozy combination.
• Coffee: Enjoy the rich flavors of coffee alongside the sweetness of the cookies for a perfect balance.
• Milk: A classic choice, milk complements the chocolatey goodness and adds creaminess.

During Holiday Parties

• Cookie Platter: Serve them on a festive cookie platter with other holiday treats for a colorful display.
• Dessert Bar: Include Hot Chocolate Cookies in a dessert bar setup with toppings like whipped cream and sprinkles.
• Gift Bags: Package them in cute bags as gifts for neighbors or friends during the holiday season.

For Family Gatherings

• Family Movie Night: Enjoy these cookies while watching your favorite holiday movies together.
• Game Night Snack: Use them as a sweet snack during family game nights to keep everyone energized.

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How to Perfect Hot Chocolate Cookies

To make sure your Hot Chocolate Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill helps prevent spreading and keeps your cookies thick and chewy.
• Use Quality Cocoa Mix: Opt for high-quality hot cocoa mix for richer flavor. Avoid sugar-free versions, as they alter the texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies from the oven when edges are brown but centers appear slightly underbaked; they’ll continue cooking on the sheet.
• Measure Accurately: Ensure you measure ingredients precisely for consistent results. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
• Experiment with Mix-ins: Try adding different types of chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor variety.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Chocolate Cookies

When serving Hot Chocolate Cookies, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert spread. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs nicely with warm cookies, creating an indulgent treat.
2. Chocolate Fondue: Serve with fresh fruits and pretzels for dipping, enhancing the chocolate experience.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a light contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.
4. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites add a creamy texture that balances well with the sweetness of the cookies.
5. Nutty Trail Mix: Offer a crunchy trail mix on the side for those who enjoy some extra texture with their dessert.
6. Spiced Tea: A warm cup of spiced tea complements the flavors of the cookies while providing a comforting beverage option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hot Chocolate Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Skipping Chilling Time: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Always chill for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for best results.

• Using Sugar-Free Cocoa: Some might think using sugar-free hot cocoa mix is a good idea, but this alters the flavor and texture. Stick with regular hot cocoa for the best taste.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long after adding the flour can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a soft, chewy texture.

• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cooking time and cookie texture. Always preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit before baking.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin your cookies. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Cookies will last for up to one week in the fridge.

Freezing Hot Chocolate Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months without losing flavor.

Reheating Hot Chocolate Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds per cookie.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hot Chocolate Cookies.

Can I use other types of chocolate chips?

Yes, you can substitute with dark chocolate or white chocolate chips based on your preference. Each will add its unique flavor profile!

What is the best way to store Hot Chocolate Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness. You can also freeze them for up to three months.

How do I make Hot Chocolate Cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Hot Chocolate Cookies, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Can I add nuts to my Hot Chocolate Cookies?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch and flavor contrast to the soft cookies.

Final Thoughts

These Hot Chocolate Cookies are a perfect treat for any occasion, especially during winter holidays. Their rich cocoa flavor and gooey chocolate chips make them irresistible. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or different types of chocolate!