There’s something undeniably cozy about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home. Fudgy Brownie Hot Chocolate Cookies are the comforting answer to those chilly evenings when all you want to do is curl up on the couch with a steaming mug of cocoa. These cookies are not just another sweet treat; they’re your ticket to the ultimate indulgence. Imagine biting into a rich, fudgy brownie that melts in your mouth, combined with the tempting textures of gooey chocolate and fluffy marshmallows. The delightful fusion of flavors is sure to evoke nostalgia, making these cookies perfect for family gatherings or quiet nights in.
The moment they come out of the oven, the sweet scent of chocolate fills the air, creating an environment of warmth and happiness. It’s the kind of smell that wraps around you like a thick blanket on a winter’s night. As you prepare to take a bite, the glossy tops promise a rich explosion of chocolatey goodness. The texture? Utter perfection—crispy edges that give way to a chewy center, with bursts of melting chocolate chips and little puffs of marshmallow that remind you of cozy s’mores nights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Fudgy Brownie Hot Chocolate Cookies are simply irresistible, and here’s why:
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich cocoa and chocolate chips sends your taste buds on a delightful journey. Each bite is an indulgent experience that chocolate lovers will cherish.
- Irresistibly Gooey: The marshmallows add a delightful twist; they melt into little pockets of gooey goodness, enhancing the overall texture and flavor.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice bakers and experienced ones. You won’t need any fancy equipment—just a couple of bowls and a whisk.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a winter party, treating your family on a cozy weekend, or just need a quick pick-me-up, these cookies are a go-to treat.
- Nostalgic Touch: They evoke memories of childhood recipes, giving you that warm, fuzzy feeling as you bake.
How to Make Fudgy Brownie Hot Chocolate Cookies
Making Fudgy Brownie Hot Chocolate Cookies isn’t just straightforward—it’s an experience. You’ll find joy in mixing, baking, and, of course, indulging in the finished product. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures that your cookies don’t stick and guarantees easy cleanup—because we all know how messy baking can get!
Next, in a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Mix these two until well combined, and the sugar has started to dissolve. You’ll notice a glossy texture forming, and that’s when the magic begins.
Once that’s done, crack in the eggs, and add the vanilla extract. Mix these in until the batter becomes smooth and creamy. This is the point when the rich chocolate aroma starts to take over, bringing you comfort just from the smell!
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Then, gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Take care to mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want soft and chewy.
After that, it’s time to fold in one cup of chocolate chips and half a cup of mini marshmallows. Use a spatula to gently combine these—this is when it starts to smell heavenly, with pockets of chocolate and marshmallows waiting to be baked.
Next, drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring you leave space between each ball; they will spread a bit while baking. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the edges are set but the centers still look a little soft — that’s the secret to achieving that fudgy texture!
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period is crucial because it helps the cookies maintain their shape and allows the marshmallows to remain gooey. You’ll want to serve them warm for the ultimate chocolate experience, but they can also be stored for later.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
Now, let’s break down these key ingredients:
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Unsalted Butter: This is essential for adding richness and moisture to your cookies. Unsalted is preferred so you can control the overall saltiness of your cookies better.
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Granulated Sugar: This sweetener not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the chewy texture. If you want to switch things up, brown sugar can add a bit of depth and flavor.
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Eggs: They bind the ingredients together and provide essential moisture.
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Vanilla Extract: This elevates the flavor, adding a subtle warmth that complements the chocolate beautifully.
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All-Purpose Flour: The base of your cookies, providing structure. For a gluten-free option, you can use a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend.
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Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: The heart of the brownie flavor, it gives that rich chocolate taste that makes these cookies so delicious.
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Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps create the perfect texture; you’ll want a chew while still having a bit of rise.
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Salt: A tiny pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
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Chocolate Chips: They’re a gooey surprise in every bite. Feel free to use milk, dark, or even white chocolate chips—whatever fits your taste!
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Mini Marshmallows: These provide that nostalgic gooeyness reminiscent of hot chocolate and s’mores.
Directions
To bring your Fudgy Brownie Hot Chocolate Cookies to life, follow these simple steps for success.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this makes cleanup a breeze.
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the melted butter and then add the granulated sugar. Take your time to mix until everything is well combined. You want a shiny mixture—this will lead to that beautiful fudgy texture later on.
After that, it’s time to whisk in the eggs and the vanilla extract. Keep mixing until the batter is smooth; this part is when you can truly appreciate the lovely aroma starting to fill your kitchen.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Once combined, slowly add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Mix delicately until it’s just combined; if you see a few specks of flour, that’s perfectly fine! Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Now, gently fold in the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows with a spatula. This is where the magic begins, as you’ll see the delicious pockets of chocolate and marshmallow awaiting you. The dough will feel thick, but don’t worry—it’s just right!
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop generous spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Make sure there’s some space between each dollop, as they will spread slightly while baking.
Toss these into your preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll notice the edges turning golden, which is a good sign, but remember, the centers should still be soft. It’s that softness that gives the cookie its fudgy magic.
After baking, let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This cooling time allows them to firm up slightly before transferring them onto wire racks. They may look a touch underbaked in the center—trust the process! They’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet after being pulled from the oven.
When ready, either savor them warm for that melty chocolate goodness or store them in an airtight container later.
How to Serve Fudgy Brownie Hot Chocolate Cookies
When it comes to serving these delicious cookies, the world is your oyster! They are a perfect snack for cozying up with a good book or movie. Picture them served warm with a dollop of whipped cream on the side, or perhaps alongside a steaming mug of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for the perfect cold-weather treat. They also make an excellent addition to any holiday cookie platter, bringing smiles and warmth to gatherings.
You might also consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a rich dessert that will steal your heart. The contrast of the warm, fudgy cookies with the cold, creamy ice cream creates an unforgettable experience. For a festive touch, sprinkle crushed peppermint on top of the ice cream if you’re feeling adventurous.
How to Store Fudgy Brownie Hot Chocolate Cookies
If somehow you find yourself with leftover cookies (though I’m sure those will disappear quickly!), storing them properly will help maintain their deliciousness. Place the cookies in an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to five days. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure they’re completely cool before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When frozen this way, they can last for up to three months.
When you’re ready to indulge again, you can reheat the cookies in the oven at a low temperature for about 5 minutes to restore that lovely gooey texture. If you need a quicker fix, a quick warm-up in the microwave will do the trick, but be careful not to overdo it—nobody wants a rubbery cookie!
Tips for Perfect Fudgy Brownie Hot Chocolate Cookies
To achieve the ultimate Fudgy Brownie Hot Chocolate Cookies, here are some tried-and-true tips:
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Quality Ingredients: Always opt for high-quality chocolate and cocoa powder. The taste difference is noticeable and elevates your cookie game tremendously.
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Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix only until the flour disappears. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, which is the opposite of what we want.
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Chill the Dough: If time permits, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can enhance the flavor and improve the texture of the cookies.
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Watch Your Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake. It’s better to be slightly underbaked than overbaked; you can always pop them back in for a minute if they require more time.
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Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to toss in nuts, dried fruits, or even different types of chocolate chips to make these cookies your own.
Variations
Get creative with these Fudgy Brownie Hot Chocolate Cookies by trying out these delightful variations:
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Nutty Surprise: Add a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the fudginess of the cookie.
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Cacao Nibs: For those who love a little bitter contrast, consider swapping half of the chocolate chips for cacao nibs. They add a delightful crunch and a sophisticated touch to your cookies.
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Seasonal Flavors: Try adding a teaspoon of peppermint extract during the mixing process to give your cookies a refreshing taste that’s perfect for the holidays.
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Dairy-Free Version: You can substitute dairy-free butter and chocolate chips to make these cookies dairy-free without compromising the rich texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use baking soda instead of baking powder?
While you can technically swap baking soda for baking powder, they serve different functions. Baking powder has the necessary acid already, which helps the cookies rise and become light and fluffy. Using just baking soda could result in denser cookies and may require additional acidic ingredients to balance it out.
Why are my cookies sticking to the baking sheet?
If your cookies are sticking, it could be that the baking sheet wasn’t lined properly with parchment paper or that they were baked too long. Always ensure your baking sheet is lined, and don’t skip straight to the cooling step after taking them out of the oven!
How can I ensure my cookies are chewy?
To achieve a chewy texture, focus on not overbaking them. Keeping the centers slightly underbaked will help maintain that fudgy, chewy consistency. Plus, the chocolate chips and marshmallows help improve the overall texture.
Can I add other flavors besides chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavorings, like almond or hazelnut extracts. Just keep the proportions similar to maintain your overall balance.
Conclusion
Baking Fudgy Brownie Hot Chocolate Cookies is an experience filled with warmth, joy, and, most importantly, deliciousness. The rich chocolate flavor and delightful textures these cookies bring will undoubtedly become a cherished addition to your recipe collection. So, gather your ingredients, let your kitchen fill with delicious cocoa aromas, and treat yourself (and your loved ones!) to this outstanding recipe. If you love this Fudgy Brownie Hot Chocolate Cookies recipe, save it for later or share it with someone who’d enjoy it too. Happy baking!
Print
Fudgy Brownie Hot Chocolate Cookies
- Total Time: 27
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the cozy flavors of Fudgy Brownie Hot Chocolate Cookies, perfect for chilly evenings with a rich, fudgy brownie texture enhanced by gooey chocolate and marshmallows.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar until well mixed and glossy.
- Crack in the eggs and add the vanilla extract; mix until the batter is smooth and creamy.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, then gradually mix into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows gently.
- Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each dough ball.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Serve warm for that ultimate gooey chocolate experience, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 12
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
