Name: Hot Cocoa Cookies Topped with Marshmallows
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips; 12 large marshmallows, halved

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Hot Cocoa Cookies topped with Marshmallows are my favorite way to turn a classic winter drink into a chewy, chocolatey treat. These cookies taste just like a mug of hot cocoa—rich with cocoa flavor, soft in the center, and finished with gooey, melty marshmallows on top. They’re perfect for holiday baking, cozy nights in, or anytime I want a sweet taste of winter.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how soft and fudgy these cookies are, with deep chocolate flavor and just the right amount of sweetness. The marshmallow on top adds a nostalgic, playful touch—like sipping real hot cocoa. They’re easy to make, look beautiful on a dessert platter, and always disappear fast. Plus, they’re fun to bake with kids or serve at holiday parties.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unsalted butter, softened
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking soda
Salt
Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
Large marshmallows (cut in half)

Directions

I start by creaming the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until smooth and fluffy.
Then I beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, I whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
I slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
I fold in the chocolate chips for extra melty goodness in every bite.
I scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
I bake the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–9 minutes.
Just before the cookies are done, I gently press half a large marshmallow into the center of each one and return them to the oven for another 2–3 minutes, until the marshmallows are soft and slightly puffy.
After removing them from the oven, I let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies. It takes 15 minutes to prep and around 10–12 minutes to bake, so I can have a full batch ready in under 30 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I use peppermint marshmallows or sprinkle crushed candy canes over the marshmallows for a festive twist. I’ve also added a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the dough to deepen the flavor. For a gooier finish, I press an extra few chocolate chips into the tops right after baking.

Storage/Reheating

I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If I want that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel, I warm them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before eating to soften the marshmallow again. They also freeze well—I just freeze the dough balls and bake fresh when I want them.

FAQs

Can I use mini marshmallows instead?

Yes, I sometimes use 3–4 mini marshmallows per cookie instead of halved large ones. They melt faster, so I watch them closely.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. I make the dough a day ahead, refrigerate it, and bake when ready. I let it sit out for 10 minutes before scooping if it’s too firm.

Do the marshmallows stay soft after baking?

They firm up slightly as they cool but stay chewy and delicious. I reheat the cookies slightly if I want them extra gooey again.

Can I skip the chocolate chips?

Yes, but I find the chips add that melty, hot cocoa texture. I’ve used white chocolate or chopped dark chocolate too.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes. I freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container or freeze the unbaked dough balls and add the marshmallow during baking.

Conclusion

Hot Cocoa Cookies topped with Marshmallows are a dreamy winter treat that brings all the cozy vibes of a cup of cocoa into cookie form. I love how simple they are to make, how rich they taste, and how fun they look with their marshmallow tops. Whether I’m baking for a crowd or just treating myself, these cookies always warm me up.