vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies Recipe

Indulge in the delightful combination of hot cocoa and cookies with these vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies Recipe. These treats are perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday celebrations. The rich, chocolatey cookie base topped with gooey vegan marshmallows and decadent melted chocolate makes them a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Decadent Flavor: The blend of chocolate and marshmallows creates a deliciously rich taste.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, gifts, or a sweet treat at home.
• Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy this dessert without animal products or by-products.
• Fun Presentation: The melted chocolate on top adds visual appeal and extra flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make these cookies, you’ll need some essential tools that will help simplify the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Wire rack
• Heat-proof bowl (for melting chocolate)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without spills.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when beating the butter and sugars until fluffy.
• Baking sheets: Allows even baking of cookies while preventing sticking.
• Wire rack: Ensures proper cooling of the cookies, maintaining their texture.

Ingredients

To create the delicious vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 and 1/2 cups (188g) all-purpose flour, spooned & leveled
• 1/3 cup (27g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup (40g) dry hot cocoa mix
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons (10ml) milk, any kind (dairy or nondairy is fine)
• 10–11 large vegan marshmallows, cut in half
• 8 ounces (226g) semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped

How to Make vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars

Start by beating the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together on medium-high speed until fluffy and light in color. This should take about 2–3 minutes.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla Extract

Next, add in the large egg and pure vanilla extract. Beat on high speed until everything is well combined. Remember to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, hot cocoa mix, baking soda, and salt until thoroughly combined. Once mixed, gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in your mixing bowl. Beat on low speed until just combined; expect a thick cookie dough. Finally, beat in the milk to achieve a sticky consistency.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Chilling is imperative for this sticky cookie dough. Cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare Baking Sheets

While your dough chills, line large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside for later use.

Step 6: Form Cookie Balls

After chilling, scoop out heaping tablespoons (about 25-26g each) of dough. Roll them into balls and arrange them on your prepared baking sheets about 2–3 inches apart.

Step 7: Bake with Marshmallows

Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). After they bake for about 10 minutes, remove them from the oven. Lightly press half of a vegan marshmallow into each cookie’s top. Return them to the oven for an additional 2 minutes. Afterward, gently press down on each marshmallow using the back of a spoon to slightly flatten them.

Step 8: Cooling

Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before adding chocolate.

Step 9: Melt Chocolate

Melt your chopped semi-sweet chocolate using either a double boiler or microwave method. If using a microwave, heat in increments of 20 seconds while stirring after each increment until completely melted and smooth.

Step 10: Decorate with Chocolate

Spoon melted chocolate over each cooled cookie topped with vegan marshmallows. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before enjoying your delicious creations! Once set, these cookies can be stacked, stored, transported, or gifted as delightful treats.

How to Serve vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies Recipe

These delicious vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies are perfect for sharing and enjoying on their own. Here are some creative ways to serve them.

With a Warm Beverage

• Hot Cocoa: Pair these cookies with a steaming mug of hot cocoa for a delightful treat. The warm drink complements the chocolatey goodness of the cookies.
• Coffee or Tea: Enjoy them alongside your favorite coffee or tea. The rich flavors of the cookies enhance the experience of your beverage.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Platter: Arrange these cookies on a festive platter with other desserts for gatherings. They add a fun and whimsical touch to any dessert table.
• Gift Boxes: Package cookies in decorative boxes as gifts for friends and family. They make great homemade treats for special occasions.

With Ice Cream

• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to sandwich a scoop of your favorite vegan ice cream, creating a delightful dessert that everyone will love.
• A La Mode: Serve a cookie warm with a scoop of ice cream on top for an indulgent treat. The contrast of warm and cold is simply irresistible.

How to Perfect vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies Recipe

To achieve the best results with your vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies, follow these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and results in thicker cookies.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate for the richest flavor. Fresh ingredients improve taste and texture.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them from the oven when edges are firm but centers are still soft for that perfect texture.
• Use Vegan Marshmallows: Make sure to choose large vegan marshmallows that melt beautifully, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
• Store Properly: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness. They can last up to one week.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or peppermint extract for unique twists on flavor.

Best Side Dishes for vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies Recipe

These side dishes pair wonderfully with vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies, making your dessert experience even more enjoyable.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Nutty Granola: Serve a bowl of crunchy granola as a side; it provides texture and complements the soft cookies.
3. Dairy-Free Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy side dish that contrasts nicely with the chewy cookies.
4. Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Offer strawberries or bananas dipped in chocolate as an elegant side treat that echoes the cookie’s flavors.
5. Vegan Cheese Platter: Provide a selection of vegan cheeses paired with crackers; this savory option pairs well after indulging in sweet treats.
6. Candied Nuts: Sweet, crunchy nuts create an appealing contrast to gooey cookies, making them perfect finger food at gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies, it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping Chilling Time: Not chilling the cookie dough can lead to overly sticky cookies that spread too much while baking. Always chill your dough for at least 30 minutes.
• Incorrect Measurement of Ingredients: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can affect the texture and flavor. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy, especially for flour and cocoa powder.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long can result in tough cookies. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a tender cookie.
• Not Using Parchment Paper: Baking directly on the sheet can cause cookies to stick and burn. Always use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Every oven is different; temperatures may vary. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking conditions for perfect cookies.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator where they will last up to 1 week.

Freezing vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies Recipe

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; remember to separate layers with parchment paper.

Reheating vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat; place cookies in it covered with a lid for about 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies.

Can I use other types of chocolate?

Yes! You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate or milk chocolate alternatives depending on your preference.

How do I ensure my vegan marshmallows stay fluffy?

Make sure not to overbake your cookies after adding the marshmallows; this will help retain their fluffiness.

What can I replace if I don’t have cocoa powder?

You can use carob powder as an alternative if you prefer a caffeine-free option. Just keep in mind that it will alter the taste slightly.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your cookies by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

These vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can personalize them with your favorite toppings or mix-ins. Enjoy these delightful treats during cozy nights in or share them as gifts!