When the weather turns chilly and the holidays are in full swing, nothing warms the soul quite like a batch of Hot Chocolate Christmas Cookies. Picture this: a soft, fudgy chocolate cookie oozing with gooey chocolate centers, topped with a toasted marshmallow. Every bite is like sipping a mug of creamy hot cocoa by the fireplace.

These cookies combine the nostalgia of holiday treats with the indulgence of molten chocolate. They’re a hit at cookie exchanges, beloved by kids and adults alike, and just the thing to make your Christmas cookie tray a standout. If you’re ready to turn up the festive cheer with a touch of decadent bliss, these cookies are your answer.

What Kind of Cocoa Should I Use?

To get that deep, rich chocolate flavor, you’ll want to use unsweetened cocoa powder—either natural or Dutch-processed works well. Dutch-processed will give your cookies a darker color and smoother taste, while natural cocoa offers a slight tang that balances the sweetness. For a more intense hot chocolate vibe, consider mixing both for depth.

Ingredients for the Hot Chocolate Christmas Cookies

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: The backbone of the cookie’s chocolatey depth. Use a good-quality cocoa for best results.

Butter: Adds richness and gives the cookies a soft, tender texture.

Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar: A blend of both sweeteners brings moisture and a touch of caramel-like flavor.

All-Purpose Flour: The structural foundation of the cookie.

Baking Soda & Salt: Ensures the cookies rise just enough and brings balance to the sweetness.

Vanilla Extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor and adds warmth.

Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chunks: These melt into gooey pockets, reminiscent of hot chocolate.

Marshmallows: The star topping that toasts to golden perfection, mimicking a mug of hot cocoa.

How To Make the Hot Chocolate Christmas Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This creates a smooth base for your cookies.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Mix in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet, stirring just until combined.

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chunks

Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chunks. Be careful not to overmix, so the dough stays tender.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Drop dough by heaping tablespoons onto a lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, until edges are set but centers are still soft.

Step 6: Add Marshmallows

Remove cookies from the oven and gently press a halved marshmallow on top of each cookie. Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes, just until the marshmallow begins to puff and brown.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy warm for the ultimate hot chocolate experience.

Hot Chocolate Christmas Cookies

How to Store and Serve These Cookies

Hot Chocolate Christmas Cookies are best enjoyed warm when the chocolate is still gooey and the marshmallow is melty. If making ahead, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. To revive that just-baked warmth, pop them in the microwave for 10 seconds before serving.

Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen by adding 1-2 extra minutes to the bake time.

What to Serve With Hot Chocolate Christmas Cookies?

Classic Hot Cocoa

Pair these cookies with a steaming mug of hot cocoa for double the comfort.

Peppermint Milk

Add a candy cane swirl to milk for a refreshing contrast to the rich cookie.

Eggnog Latte

The creamy, spiced flavors of eggnog balance the chocolatey depth perfectly.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Create a hot-and-cold dessert by serving a cookie warm with a scoop of ice cream.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

Drizzle caramel over the cookies for a decadent upgrade.

Chocolate Bark or Fudge

Create a dessert board with chocolate bark, fudge, and your cookies for a stunning holiday presentation.

If you love these Hot Chocolate Christmas Cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other festive treats:

Condensed Milk Snow Cookies for a melt-in-your-mouth winter delight.
Chocolate Cherry Cookies Recipe for a fruit-filled chocolate fix.
Caramel Cheesecake Cookies if you crave creamy meets chewy.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Cookies for a fruity, tangy twist.
Soft Peanut Butter Cookies if classic comfort is calling.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe you added a caramel center or swapped the chocolate chunks for peppermint chips? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Hot Chocolate Christmas Cookies

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Get ready to cozy up with the ultimate winter treat! These Hot Chocolate Christmas Cookies are rich, chewy, and filled with pockets of gooey chocolate and melty marshmallow. They capture everything you love about a steaming mug of cocoa but in cookie form. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert idea, a fun holiday bake, or an easy cookie recipe for gifting, this festive favorite is it. Perfect for cookie trays, Christmas parties, and cold nights by the fire, this dessert is a must for your seasonal baking list. Great for quick Christmas baking, chocolate dessert lovers, and anyone searching for warm holiday food ideas.