Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent cookie that captures the essence of your favorite winter beverage - rich chocolate, creamy marshmallows, and a refreshing burst of peppermint. These Peppermint Marshmallow Hot Chocolate Cookies are more than just a treat; they're a magical winter experience that will transport you to a cozy fireside moment with every single bite. Whether you're looking to impress guests, create a festive dessert, or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary, these cookies are about to become your new seasonal obsession!
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 18 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Incorporate vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure no lumps remain.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in mini marshmallows and crushed peppermint candies using a spatula, distributing evenly throughout the dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, until edges are set and centers appear slightly soft.
- Remove from oven and let cookies cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Sprinkle additional crushed peppermint candies on top of warm cookies for extra decoration and flavor.
Tips
- Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted for the perfect cookie texture.
- Sift dry ingredients to prevent any lumpy spots in your dough.
- Don't overmix the dough - this can make cookies tough instead of tender.
- Use fresh, high-quality cocoa powder for the most intense chocolate flavor.
- Space cookies evenly on the baking sheet to allow proper spreading and even baking.
- Watch cookies carefully during the last few minutes of baking - they should look slightly underdone in the center.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to help them set before transferring.
- For extra festive look, crush peppermint candies finely and sprinkle generously on top.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain softness and fresh flavor.
- These cookies freeze beautifully - perfect for make-ahead holiday treats!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 45mg
