Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups

Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups have always held a special place in my heart, reminding me of cozy winter evenings spent snuggled up with my family. I can still picture my kids’ faces lighting up as they took their first bites of these treats, the excitement of melted chocolate and marshmallow dancing on their taste buds. It’s a delightful combination that wraps you in warmth, just like a hug on a cold day. Every time I bake these, I’m transported back to those magical moments, sipping hot cocoa while the snowflakes fall softly outside.

this …

These Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups are perfect for the holiday season or any chilly night when you just want to treat yourself and your loved ones. They’re not only simple to whip up but also bring a sense of nostalgia and joy that fills the kitchen with laughter and love. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a cherished tradition in your home too!

Why You’ll Love "Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups"

• Quick and easy to prepare, taking only about 15 minutes of prep time!
• Perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or cozy nights in.
• Minimal ingredients mean you can whip these up without a big shopping trip.
• Freezer-friendly, so you can make them ahead of time and enjoy later.
• Fun for kids to help with, making baking a family affair!
• Indulgent flavors of chocolate and marshmallow create a warm, comforting treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 roll (16.5 oz) refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough – I love using the classic brand for that familiar taste.
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – Go for high-quality chips; they make a world of difference!
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream – This makes the chocolate filling extra dreamy; you can use coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Always use pure vanilla for the best flavor; trust me, it’s worth it!
• Mini marshmallows – The fluffier, the better! Feel free to use festive colors for a fun twist.
• Crushed peppermint or festive sprinkles – This is optional, but it adds a lovely crunch and a pop of color!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookie cups bake evenly and come out just right.

Prepare the Muffin Tin

1. While the oven is heating up, grab a muffin tin and grease it well. You can use cooking spray or a little butter to make sure the cookie cups don’t stick. Nobody likes a messy extraction!

Form the Cookie Cups

1. Now, take your refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough and slice it into equal pieces. About 12 slices should do the trick.
2. Press each slice firmly into the bottom of the muffin cups, making sure to push the dough up the sides to form a little cup. Don’t worry if it looks a little uneven; trust me, they’ll still taste amazing!

Bake the Cups

1. Pop the muffin tin into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You want the edges to be golden brown and the center to look a little puffy. If you smell that delicious cookie aroma filling your kitchen, you know you’re on the right track!

Make the Chocolate Filling

1. While the cookie cups are baking, grab a small saucepan. Combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, heavy cream, and vanilla extract over low heat. Stir gently until everything is melted and smooth. This chocolate filling should be rich and dreamy — it’s the heart of these cookie cups!

Fill the Cookie Cups

1. Once your cookie cups are out of the oven and have cooled for just a couple of minutes, it’s time to fill them up. Carefully spoon the melted chocolate mixture into each cup, filling them generously but not overflowing. You want that chocolate goodness to nestle inside nicely!

Add Toppings

1. Now, here comes the fun part! Top each filled cookie cup with mini marshmallows, piling them high. If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle some crushed peppermint or colorful sprinkles on top for that extra crunch and cheer.

Cool and Serve

1. Let your cookie cups cool for about 10 minutes. This step is important as it allows the chocolate to set slightly. Trust me, they taste even better when they’re not scalding hot! Once cooled, carefully remove them from the muffin tin and serve them up warm or at room temperature.

Variations

• Make it minty by adding a drop of peppermint extract to the chocolate filling.
• For a festive touch, swap mini marshmallows for seasonal flavored ones.
• Try using white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a creamy twist.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cookie dough.
• Mix in some chopped nuts or toffee pieces for added texture and flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve your Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups warm for that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth experience. They’re delightful on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a real treat. Don’t forget to have extra marshmallows or whipped cream on hand for those who want to indulge even more!

Storage

Store any leftover cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, pop them in the freezer for up to a month. Just reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying!

Helpful Notes

• If you don’t have chocolate chip cookie dough, you can use sugar cookie dough for a different take!
• For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the filled cups for a delightful sweet-and-salty contrast.
• Feel free to mix in some peanut butter or almond butter into the chocolate filling for a nutty flavor.
• These cookie cups are perfect for decorating with festive icing or edible glitter for special occasions!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze hot chocolate cookie cups?

Yes, you can freeze hot chocolate cookie cups! Just place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag after they have cooled completely. They can be frozen for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can substitute it with coconut cream for a dairy-free option, or use half-and-half for a lighter version. You can also mix milk with a bit of butter (about ¾ cup milk with ¼ cup melted butter) as a substitute, although the texture will be slightly different.

How can I make these cookie cups gluten-free?

To make these cookie cups gluten-free, simply use gluten-free chocolate chip cookie dough. Many brands offer delicious gluten-free options that work just as well. Just ensure that all other ingredients, like chocolate chips and toppings, are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Making Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups is not just about baking; it’s about creating sweet memories with your loved ones. I encourage you to gather your family in the kitchen and embark on this delightful adventure together. Each cookie cup is a little hug that warms your heart and fills your belly. So, roll up your sleeves, let the chocolate melt, and embrace the joyful chaos that comes with baking. I promise that once you try this recipe, it’ll become a cherished favorite in your home, just like it has in mine. Happy baking!

Print