Warm up your taste buds with our delightful hot cocoa cookies! These soft, chewy treats are infused with the rich taste of cocoa and topped with a luscious chocolate center. Perfect for holiday gatherings or simply as a sweet snack, they bring the essence of cozy hot cocoa into every bite. Let’s bake some delicious memories together!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 10-12 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each cookie (approximately 1 cookie per serving) contains about 150 calories, 7g fat, 20g carbohydrates, 2g protein, and 10g sugar.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Coconut oil can replace butter for a dairy-free option. Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
Serving and Pairings
These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee. They also make a great addition to holiday cookie platters alongside other treats.
Storage and Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the dough, as it can make the cookies tough.
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Check cookies at the minimum baking time to avoid overbaking.
- Ensure your oven is properly preheated before baking.
- Don’t skip the cooling time; it helps improve texture.
Helpful Tips
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
- Experiment with different types of chocolate chips.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes.
- Add a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Bake them fresh when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have cocoa powder?
If you don’t have cocoa powder, you can use Dutch-processed cocoa or a carob powder as a substitute, although the flavor will vary slightly.
How can I make these cookies softer?
For softer cookies, slightly underbake them and let them cool on the baking sheet. This helps retain moisture.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can be mixed in for added crunch and flavor.
Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Yes, these cookies freeze well. Just ensure they are in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Conclusion
Treat yourself and your loved ones to these delightful hot cocoa cookies. With their rich chocolate flavor and soft, chewy texture, they’re sure to become a favorite. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as a sweet treat any time of the day!
Hot Cocoa Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
