Name: Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies for Cozy Indulgence
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 36 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Gluten-Free Flour (Use King Arthur Measure for Measure for thicker cookies.); 215 grams Dark Chocolate (64-70% cocoa) (Choose quality chocolate you enjoy.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Swap with dairy-free butter for a dairy-free version.); 2 large Eggs (Cold eggs help achieve better volume.); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Accurate measurement is key.); 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar (Accurate measurement is key.); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (Diamond Kosher Crystal Salt is recommended.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Necessary for leavening.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Optional for extra aromatic notes.); 1/4 cup Hot Cocoa Mix (Can use cocoa powder and sugar instead.); 1/4 cup Dutch-Processed Cocoa Powder (Substitute with natural cocoa for a lighter cookie.); 1 cup Marshmallow Fluff/Creme (Provides extra sweetness and that delightful swirl.)

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As I watched the first snowflakes of winter spiral down from the sky, the craving for something warm and sweet nudged at my heart. That’s when I decided to bake up a batch of Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies. These little gems are inspired by my fondness for cozy evenings by the fire, laden with the rich taste of chocolate and a delightful hint of marshmallow fluff. What could be better than a gooey, fudgy cookie that’s both quick to whip up and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser? Perfect for holiday gatherings or simply indulging in a sweet moment of bliss. You won’t believe how comforting these cookies are until you try one! Ready to embrace a new favorite baking adventure?

Why are these cookies a must-try?

Irresistible Comfort: Each bite of these Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies brings back warm memories of winter wonderlands and cozy evenings.

Quick and Easy: With a simple prep time, you can bake a delightful batch without extensive fuss.

Decadent Flavor: The rich, fudgy chocolate combined with gooey marshmallow makes for a truly decadent treat that everyone will adore.

Versatile Twist: Feel free to experiment by swapping marshmallow fluff with a chocolate filling or even a swirl of caramel for a fun twist!

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings, they’re bound to impress friends and family alike.

Pair them with your favorite drink; perhaps a hot cup of cocoa or a warm coffee for the ultimate indulgence! These cookies are your ticket to holiday magic.

Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready for cozy baking!

For the Cookie Base

Gluten-Free Flour – Provides structure; use King Arthur Measure for Measure for thicker cookies.
Dark Chocolate (64-70% cocoa) – Adds richness; choose quality chocolate you enjoy.
Unsalted Butter – Provides moisture; swap with dairy-free butter for a dairy-free version.
Large Eggs + Egg Yolk – Essential for texture; cold eggs help achieve better volume.
Granulated Sugar + Light Brown Sugar – Sweetens and moistens; accurate measurement is key.
Salt – Balances sweetness; Diamond Kosher Crystal Salt is recommended.
Baking Powder – Necessary for leavening; ensures the right texture.

For the Flavor Boost

Vanilla Extract – Adds flavor complexity; optional for extra aromatic notes.
Hot Cocoa Mix – Infuses flavor; can use cocoa powder and sugar instead.
Dutch-Processed Cocoa Powder – Deepens flavor and color; substitute with natural cocoa for a lighter cookie.

For the Signature Swirl

Marshmallow Fluff/Creme – Provides extra sweetness and that delightful swirl; both work well in this recipe.

These Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies are the perfect treat to warm your heart!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s evenly heated for optimal baking. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup. This step sets the stage for perfectly baked Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies that will be both gooey and delicious.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter
In a heatproof bowl, combine 215g of dark chocolate and your unsalted butter. Melt them together over a saucepan of simmering water, stirring until smooth and glossy, about 5 minutes. Be rid of any lumps—this mixture will provide a rich base for your cookies, giving them that delightful chocolatey goodness.

Step 3: Whisk Egg Mixture
In a stand mixer, whisk together your large eggs, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and salt on medium speed for about 5 minutes. The mixture should become fluffy and pale in color. This step is crucial, as it will yield a light texture in your Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies once baked.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, folding them together until completely smooth. This will create a rich batter, essential for the fudgy texture of the cookies. Take your time with this step to ensure that the ingredients are well combined without losing the air you’ve incorporated.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients
Sift together the gluten-free flour, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, hot cocoa mix, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, gently folding until you see no dry flour remaining. This careful blending will ensure your Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies rise beautifully and have a luscious texture.

Step 6: Scoop and Swirl
Using a large cookie scoop, drop about 3 tablespoons of cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving space for spreading. Top each mound of dough with a generous dollop of marshmallow fluff, creating a delightful swirl. This step adds a sweet, gooey surprise to each cookie, enhancing the hot chocolate charm.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 11 minutes. Keep an eye out for the crinkly tops and the slight doming of the cookies; these visual cues indicate they are nearing perfection. If desired, gently shape the warm cookies into perfect circles with your spatula straight from the oven for a polished finish.

Step 8: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. This cooling period lets them set slightly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. These Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies will take shape, ensuring each bite is just right—rich, fudgy, and delightfully swirled with marshmallow.

Tips for the Best Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies

Measure Accurately: Use a digital kitchen scale for precision in your measurements, especially vital for gluten-free baking. Inaccurate measurements can lead to undesirable textures.
Whisking Matters: Don’t skip the 5-minute whisking of eggs and sugars; it incorporates air, ensuring your cookies are light and fluffy despite being gluten-free.
Chocolate Quality: Choose dark chocolate you genuinely enjoy eating; its flavor will significantly influence the final result of your Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies.
Cooling Time: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set properly, maintaining their fudgy texture.
Baking Insights: If using a convection oven, reduce baking time as cookies may bake quicker. Keep a close eye on them for best results!

Make Ahead Options

These Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making your busy holiday season a little sweeter! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the mixed dough in an airtight container to maintain its rich, fudgy texture. For added convenience, you can also scoop the dough onto the baking sheets and freeze them individually for up to 3 days, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them straight into the oven from the freezer, adding an extra minute to the baking time. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy delightful cookies with minimal effort, perfect for cozy gatherings or quick sweet indulgences!

What to Serve with Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies

These delectable delights are the perfect centerpiece for your cozy gatherings, inviting warmth and sweetness to your table.

Rich Hot Cocoa: Serve these cookies alongside a steaming cup of rich hot cocoa for a delightful chocolate overload, reminiscent of childhood treats.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully, creating a luscious contrast to the fudgy cookies’ texture—truly a match made in dessert heaven.
Fresh Berries: Bright, tart berries provide a refreshing burst of flavor, cutting through the sweetness of the cookies and balancing the richness.
Spiced Chai Latte: Alongside a spiced chai latte, the cookies take on a new layer of warmth, with the spices enhancing their gooey marshmallow core beautifully.
Chocolate Milk: For a nostalgic twist, pair with a chilled glass of chocolate milk; this combo will thrill both kids and adults alike!
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling these cookies with dulce de leche or warm caramel sauce adds a decadent touch, elevating this treat to gourmet status while enhancing their gooey goodness.
Nutty Coffee: Complement the flavors with a cup of nutty coffee; the subtle bitterness will contrast nicely with the intense chocolate flavors of the cookies.
Chocolate Fondue: Create a fun dessert experience by serving these cookies with chocolate fondue, allowing guests to dip and savor each bite in melted chocolate bliss.

With these pairing ideas, every bite of your Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies will be a moment of bliss!

Storage Tips for Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They’ll retain their chewy goodness, ensuring each bite stays delightful!

Fridge: If you prefer a colder treat, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!

Freezer: To keep your Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies for longer, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 4 weeks. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before indulging.

Reheating: If you want to warm up your cookies, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will restore their gooey texture, making them taste freshly baked!

Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies Variations

Feel free to customize these delightful cookies with your own flair, allowing the rich chocolatey goodness to shine even brighter!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with a dairy-free butter alternative for a dairy-free version without sacrificing taste.
Chocolate Swirl: Replace marshmallow fluff with a melty chocolate or caramel swirl for a fudgier, richer treat.
Nutty Surprise: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the fudgy texture.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the dough for a surprising warmth and depth of flavor.
Flavor Boost: Enhance the taste with an extra splash of vanilla extract or a dash of almond extract for a unique twist.
Different Flours: Experiment with various gluten-free flour blends, like almond or coconut flour, for distinct textures and flavors. Just remember to adjust hydration as necessary.
Mini Treats: Make mini-cookies by reducing the dough scoop size to 1 tablespoon, yielding bite-sized delights perfect for sharing.
Fruity Twist: Add a handful of dried cherries or raspberries to the dough for a fruity explosion that pairs beautifully with chocolate.

As you embark on your baking adventure, consider pairing these cookies with a warm cup of Pink Hot Chocolate or some delightful Chocolate Peanut Butter. There’s truly no limit to the possibilities when it comes to making these Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies your own!

Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of gluten-free flour works best for these cookies?
Absolutely! I recommend using King Arthur Measure for Measure or Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 for a thicker cookie, while Cup4Cup is great if you prefer a thinner texture. These blends mimic traditional wheat flour very well and will help achieve the right consistency for your Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies.

How should I store the baked cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2-3 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just let them come back to room temperature before indulging in their fudgy goodness!

Can I freeze the cookies for later enjoyment?
Very much so! You can freeze your Gluten Free Hot Chocolate Cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 weeks. To do this, layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking, and seal the container tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply let it thaw at room temperature.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find that your cookies are spreading excessively, this could be due to the butter being too warm or insufficient flour. The next time you bake, make sure your butter is at room temperature, not melted, and ensure you measure your gluten-free flour accurately. Adding a bit more flour can help firm up the dough, preventing spreading.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
If you’re making these cookies for someone with food allergies, it’s important to note that while the recipe is gluten-free, it also contains eggs and dairy. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute unsalted butter with dairy-free butter. Always check the labels of your ingredients for any potential allergens that may affect your guests.

Can I substitute marshmallow fluff for something else?
The more the merrier! You can absolutely substitute marshmallow fluff with chocolate or caramel filling for a delightful twist. This will provide a different flavor profile while still keeping the cookies deliciously indulgent. Just make sure to swirl it on top before baking for that signature gooey surprise!