Name: Decadent Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms You’ll Love This Holiday
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 9 min
Total time: 29 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour; 0.33 cups unsweetened cocoa powder; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda; 0.5 teaspoon baking powder; 1 pinch salt; 0.5 cups unsalted butter (melted and cooled); 0.75 cups brown sugar (packed tightly); 0.25 cups white granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 yolk egg yolk (room temperature); 1 cups marshmallows (cut in half); 24 pieces Hershey's Kisses Hot Cocoa Chocolates; 0.25 cups white granulated sugar (for rolling)

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The aroma of chocolate wafting through your kitchen is a sure sign that the holidays are here! As I crafted these Fudgy Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms, I couldn’t help but feel transported to those cozy winter evenings spent sipping rich cups of hot cocoa. Each bite of these cookies is like a warm hug, featuring a fudgy center topped with gooey marshmallows and a delightful Hershey’s Kisses Hot Cocoa Chocolate. Best of all? You won’t need a mixer or even a chilling period—just pure, uncomplicated baking joy. These treats are not only quick to whip up but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home. Ready to surprise your loved ones with a festive twist on classic cookies? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why Are Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms So Irresistible?

Decadent, fudgy center: These cookies boast a rich, gooey interior that mimics the comforting essence of hot cocoa. No mixer required: Simplistic preparation allows anyone to join in on the baking fun without the hassle of complex tools. Quick bake time: Ready in just minutes, they’re perfect for when unexpected guests drop by. Kid-approved: These delightful treats are sure to excite kids and adults alike, making them a hit at holiday parties. For even more cozy flavors, consider trying out Chocolate Chip Cookie or Pink Hot Chocolate alongside these!

Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms Ingredients

• It’s time to gather everything you need for these delightful treats!

For the Cookie Dough

All-purpose flour – Works as the backbone for these delicious cookies, providing the right structure.
Baking soda – A leavening agent that helps create a light texture.
Baking powder – Adds extra leavening, ensuring your cookies rise beautifully.
Unsweetened cocoa powder – Infuses the cookies with a rich, chocolate flavor.
Salt – Balances the sweetness for a more complex flavor profile.
Unsalted butter – Adds moisture and richness; make sure it’s melted and cooled.
Brown sugar – Packed tightly, this ingredient brings a hint of caramel flavor and moisture.
White granulated sugar – Contributes necessary sweetness along with a delightful crunch to the edges.
Pure vanilla extract – Elevates the cookie experience with warm and aromatic notes.
Large egg and egg yolk – Binds the mixture together; best when at room temperature for the fudgy texture.

For the Topping

Marshmallows – Cut regular-sized marshmallows in half for that gooey top layer.
Hershey’s Kisses Hot Cocoa Chocolates – These chocolates provide a festive garnish and enhance the overall hot cocoa experience.

For Rolling

White granulated sugar (for rolling) – Adds a sweet, crunchy exterior that makes each bite magical.

Gathering these ingredients will get you one step closer to creating enchanting Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms everyone will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, take two baking sheets and line them with parchment paper. This step ensures that your Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms won’t stick and will have perfectly even baking surfaces.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, sift together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk them thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and free of lumps. Set aside the dry ingredients as they await their chocolatey fate.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, ¾ cup of packed brown sugar, ¼ cup of white granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, 1 large egg, and 1 egg yolk. Blend these ingredients until smooth and cohesive. You’ll know you’re ready when the mixture appears glossy and well integrated.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry and Wet Mixtures
Slowly add the sifted dry ingredients to the bowl with your wet mixture. Use a rubber spatula to fold and mix until just combined—be careful not to over-mix, as this can impact the texture of your Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms. The dough should be thick and fudgy, typical of rich cookie batter.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rest
Allow the dough to rest for about 10 minutes. This short period helps the flavors meld together, and you’ll notice it becomes slightly firmer, making it easier to scoop and shape into cookies. Take a moment to appreciate those lovely chocolatey aromas wafting through your kitchen!

Step 6: Shape the Cookies
With a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough and roll it into uniform balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Once shaped, roll each ball in granulated sugar, creating a sweet, crunchy exterior. Arrange 12 dough balls on each lined cookie sheet, leaving space between them for spreading.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookie sheets in your preheated oven and bake for 6 minutes. At this point, carefully remove the trays and gently press half a marshmallow on top of each cookie. Return the cookies to the oven and bake for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until they are slightly puffed and a bit soft to the touch.

Step 8: Cool and Garnish
After baking, let your Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms sit on the sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. While the cookies are still warm, place a Hershey’s Kisses Hot Cocoa Chocolate on top of each marshmallow, allowing it to melt slightly. This sweet finishing touch enhances the festive look and flavor of your cookies.

Expert Tips for Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms

• Measure Precisely: Use a kitchen scale for an accurate amount of flour. Too much can lead to dense cookies instead of the desired fudgy texture.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your egg and egg yolk to reach room temperature. This ensures better emulsification and enhances the fudginess of your Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms.

• Mind the Baking Time: Watch the cookies closely to avoid overbaking. They should be soft and slightly puffy when you take them out; they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.

• Marshmallow Trick: Cut the marshmallows in half for a more appealing presentation and gooey center. You can also use mini marshmallows for a different twist!

• Chill If Needed: Though no chilling is required, if you live in a warmer climate, consider chilling the dough for 10-15 minutes to aid in shaping and control spreading.

• Flavor Variants: For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of espresso powder to the dry ingredients, enhancing the overall chocolatey experience of your Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms.

How to Store and Freeze Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms

Airtight Container: Store your Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them soft and fudgy.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy these cookies later, freeze them for up to 3 months. Ensure each cookie is wrapped individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat from frozen by placing them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or warming them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

Thawing: If frozen, allow the cookies to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying, letting those sweet flavors come back to life!

What to Serve with Fudgy Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms

As the delightful aroma of these cookies fills your kitchen, it’s time to create a comforting and festive atmosphere with the perfect pairings.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: This iconic beverage mirrors the cookie’s flavors while providing a cozy companion—extra marshmallows on top make it even better!
Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds fluffiness that enhances every sip of hot cocoa, balancing the cookies’ rich fudginess.
Peppermint Bark: The crunchy sweetness of chocolate and peppermint contrasts beautifully with the chewy texture of the cookies, adding a festive flair.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream juxtaposes the warm cookies with cold creaminess, creating a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Fruit Tart: A refreshing fruit tart with berries brings a zesty balance to the rich chocolate flavors, offering a light, bright note to your dessert spread.
Spiced Mulled Wine: For adults, the warmth and spices in mulled wine pair beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies, enhancing the overall festive ambiance.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A warm drizzle of salted caramel over the cookies adds an indulgent, sweet contrast that leaves everyone craving another bite.
Nutty Coffee: A cup of nutty coffee blends perfectly with the chocolate, providing warmth and depth—a truly delightful pairing for a cozy evening.

Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms Variations

Feel free to add your own special twist to these delightful cookies for a personalized touch!

Mini Marshmallows: Substitute mini marshmallows for regular-sized ones to make them a tad more fun. Their bite-sized sweetness perfectly matches the cookie’s gooey charm.
Peppermint Bark Topping: Crush peppermint bark and sprinkle on top for a festive crunch. This addition enhances the holiday spirit with refreshing minty notes.
Nutty Surprise: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture and a wholesome flavor boost. The crunch of the nuts pairs beautifully with the chewy cookie.
Different Chocolates: Swap Hershey’s Kisses for any chocolate you prefer, like dark chocolate or white chocolate chips, creating a unique flavor profile for any chocolate lover.
Cinnamon Spice Twist: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough for a warm, spicy twist. It complements the chocolate beautifully, evoking memories of cozy winter nights.
Flavored Extracts: Experiment with almond or coconut extracts instead of vanilla for an unexpected flavor journey. Your cookies will have an extra layer of deliciousness.
Cocoa Powder Mix: Use different types of cocoa powder, like Dutch-processed, for a more intense chocolate flavor. Each variation brings its own unique richness to the cookies.

If you enjoy other cozy treats, consider pairing these cookies with a glass of Pink Hot Chocolate or indulge in some Chocolate Chip Cookie for a delightful dessert spread!

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the instructions until the dough is ready, cover it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the dough into balls and roll them in sugar, then bake as per the original instructions. For best quality, bake them fresh and add the marshmallows and chocolates right before serving to maintain their gooey texture and delicious flavor. This way, you’ll enjoy moist, fudgy cookies that taste just as delightful as when freshly made!

Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my marshmallows are fresh enough to use?
Absolutely! Fresh marshmallows will be soft and squishy, without any hard or dry spots. If you notice any dark spots all over or if they feel exceptionally stiff, it’s best to replace them for the ultimate gooey topping experience.

How long can I store my Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms?
Store your delicious Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This will keep them soft and fudgy, ready to be enjoyed whenever you need a sweet fix!

Can I freeze the Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms?
Very! To freeze your cookies, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat directly from the freezer.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms spread too much, it might be due to overly melted butter or warm dough. I recommend chilling the dough for about 10-15 minutes before rolling it into balls to maintain their shape during baking. Additionally, ensure your butter is melted but not hot when mixing!

Do these cookies contain any common allergens?
Yes, the Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms contain wheat (in the flour), dairy (butter), and egg, which can be allergens for some individuals. If you have specific dietary needs, consider using gluten-free flour blends or dairy-free alternatives to adapt this recipe. Always keep in mind any potential cross-contamination when baking!

What can I do if I don’t have all the ingredients on hand?
If you’re missing some ingredients, there are great substitutes! For example, you can replace unsalted butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version, or use flax eggs instead of regular eggs (mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes). Even using different flavored extracts, like almond or hazelnut, can elevate your Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms!