Short Description

Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups are adorable, bite-sized treats that combine the flavors of rich chocolate cookies with a creamy hot chocolate filling. Topped with marshmallows and a drizzle of chocolate, they are perfect for winter gatherings and holiday celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A fun and festive dessert for the holidays
Combines the flavors of hot chocolate and cookies
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfect for parties, gifting, or cozy nights in
Kid-friendly and great for decorating

Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups 10 Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups are adorable, bite-sized treats that combine the flavors of rich chocolate cookies with a creamy hot chocolate filling. Topped with marshmallows and a drizzle of chocolate, they are perfect for winter gatherings and holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Cocoa powder
Baking powder
Salt
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Egg
Vanilla extract
Milk chocolate or hot chocolate mix
Mini marshmallows
Heavy cream
Chocolate chips (for drizzle)

Directions

Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Shape the Cookie Cups: Roll the dough into small balls and press them into a greased mini muffin tin to create cup shapes.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes until set.
Create the Filling: In a saucepan, heat heavy cream and add hot chocolate mix or melted milk chocolate. Stir until smooth.
Assemble: Pour the hot chocolate filling into the cooled cookie cups and top with mini marshmallows.
Decorate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the tops and let set before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 24 cookie cups
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Peppermint Twist: Add crushed peppermint candies to the filling or sprinkle on top.
White Chocolate Version: Use white chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a creamy variation.
Salted Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving.
Nutty Addition: Mix finely chopped nuts into the cookie dough for extra crunch.
Spiced Flavor: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the hot chocolate filling.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: Can be kept in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing: Freeze cookie cups without filling for up to 3 months; fill before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought cookie dough?

Yes! Premade cookie dough can save time and still taste delicious.

How do I keep the cookie cups from sticking to the pan?

Grease the mini muffin tin well or use silicone liners for easy removal.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, bake the cookie cups in advance and fill them before serving for the best texture.

What type of chocolate works best?

Milk chocolate or a rich hot chocolate mix creates a smooth, creamy filling.

Can I add coffee to the filling?

Yes! A small amount of espresso powder can enhance the chocolate flavor.

How do I prevent the cookie cups from sinking in the middle?

Press the dough evenly into the muffin tin and avoid overbaking.

Can I use marshmallow fluff instead of mini marshmallows?

Yes! Swirl in marshmallow fluff for an extra gooey topping.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Use dairy-free chocolate, butter, and milk alternatives for a dairy-free version.

What’s the best way to serve these?

Serve slightly warm with a cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate treat!

Conclusion

Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups are the ultimate cozy dessert, combining the best of cookies and hot chocolate in one delicious bite. Whether for a holiday party or a family treat, these festive cups are sure to impress!

Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups

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Author: Maria B. Evans
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes

Print Recipe

Description

Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups are adorable bite-sized treats featuring a rich chocolate cookie base filled with creamy chocolate ganache and topped with mini marshmallows. They look just like mini mugs of hot cocoa, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or winter treats.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin.
Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
Form the Cookie Cups: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough into each mini muffin cup. Use your thumb or a spoon to press down in the center to create a cup shape.
Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes. If needed, press the center down again after baking to ensure a deep enough cup. Let cool completely before removing from the pan.
Prepare the Filling: Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until steaming but not boiling. Pour over chocolate chips and stir until smooth. Add vanilla extract.
Fill the Cups: Spoon the chocolate filling into each cookie cup.
Decorate: Top with mini marshmallows while the filling is still warm. If using mini candy canes as handles, attach them to the sides using melted white chocolate as glue.
Set and Serve: Let sit until the filling firms up, or refrigerate for 15 minutes to speed up the process.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Use peppermint extract instead of vanilla for a festive twist.
Try different fillings like caramel or peanut butter ganache.