vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies Recipe

Indulge in the delightful combination of hot cocoa and cookies with this vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies Recipe. These cookies feature a rich, chocolatey base topped with gooey vegan marshmallows and decadent melted chocolate. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights, this treat is guaranteed to surprise and delight everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The blend of chocolate cookie and gooey vegan marshmallows creates a delightful taste experience.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, even novice bakers can whip up these delicious cookies.
• Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are great for gifting, parties, or family gatherings.
• Versatile Treat: Customize with different flavors or toppings to suit your taste preferences!
• Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy a classic treat without any animal-derived ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools on hand. This will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily and thoroughly.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when beating the butter and sugars together.
• Baking sheets: Using good-quality baking sheets ensures even baking for perfectly cooked cookies.

Ingredients

To make the vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

Cookie Base

• 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

Toppings

• 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

Beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together on medium-high speed until fluffy and light in color, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the egg and vanilla extract. Beat on high speed until fully combined. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, hot cocoa mix, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients. Beat on low until combined. The cookie dough will be quite thick. Finally, mix in the milk. The dough may feel sticky.

Step 4: Chill Dough

Chill the cookie dough in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Chilling is crucial for handling sticky dough.

Step 5: Prepare Baking Sheets

Line large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Set aside.

Step 6: Shape Cookies

Scoop out heaping tablespoons of dough (about 25-26g each) and roll them into balls. Place them about 2–3 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Remove from oven after initial baking. Lightly press a half of a vegan marshmallow into the top of each cookie. Return them to bake for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from oven once done.

Step 8: Cool Down

Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Melt Chocolate

Use either a double boiler or microwave to melt the chopped chocolate. If using a microwave, heat in increments of 20 seconds, stirring after each until smooth.

Step 10: Top with Chocolate

Spoon melted chocolate over each cooled cookie topped with vegan marshmallows. Allow chocolate to set at room temperature for about 30–60 minutes before storing or gifting.

Enjoy your delicious vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies Recipe, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies Recipe

These delicious vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them at home with family or sharing them with friends, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With a Warm Beverage

• Pair your cookies with a steaming cup of hot chocolate for an indulgent treat.
• Enjoy with a glass of almond milk for a creamy contrast that complements the cookies.

As a Dessert Platter

• Create a dessert platter by arranging these cookies alongside fresh fruit and nuts.
• Add some coconut whipped cream for an extra layer of sweetness and texture.

Gift Packaging

• Wrap cookies in festive packaging to share as gifts during the holidays.
• Include a handwritten note for a personal touch that friends and family will appreciate.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Sandwich your cookies around your favorite dairy-free ice cream.
• This makes for an irresistible dessert that combines textures and flavors.

How to Perfect vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies Recipe

To ensure your vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies turn out perfectly, consider these handy tips.

• Chill the Dough: Let the cookie dough chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality cocoa powder and vegan marshmallows for the best flavor profile.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking. Remove them when they are just set but still soft in the center.
• Adjust Marshmallow Size: Cut larger vegan marshmallows into quarters if you prefer smaller bites on top of your cookies.
• Store Properly: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.

Best Side Dishes for vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies Recipe

These vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies pair well with various side dishes to create a delightful dessert spread. Consider these options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the cookies.
2. Nut Mix
   A combination of roasted nuts adds crunch and healthy fats to your dessert table.
3. Coconut Whipped Cream
   This light and fluffy topping enhances the flavors of your cookies beautifully.
4. Vegan Cheesecake Bites
   Mini cheesecakes made with cashews provide a creamy contrast to the chewy cookies.
5. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
   Sweet strawberries dipped in chocolate make for an elegant side that complements the cookie’s chocolatey goodness.
6. Dairy-Free Ice Cream
   A scoop of coconut or almond milk ice cream brings a cool element to this warm cookie treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and avoiding common mistakes will ensure your vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies turn out perfectly.

• Bold measurement miscalculations: Double-check your ingredient measurements. Too much or too little can affect the texture and taste.
• Bold neglecting to chill the dough: Chilling the cookie dough is crucial. This step helps prevent spreading and ensures a thicker cookie.
• Bold overlooking oven temperature accuracy: Always preheat your oven and use an accurate thermometer. An incorrect temperature can lead to uneven baking.
• Bold not using parchment paper: Failing to line your baking sheets can cause sticking. Parchment paper ensures easy release and cleanup.
• Bold skipping ingredient integration steps: Properly mix wet and dry ingredients. Skipping these steps may lead to uneven texture in your cookies.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies Recipe

• Freeze cookies for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies for easy separation.

Reheating vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, adding a few drops of water, cover, and warm for a couple of minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies.

Can I use different types of flour for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but the texture may vary slightly.

How do I make homemade vegan marshmallows?

You can make them using agar-agar or other plant-based gelling agents. Look for simple recipes online!

Can I customize the flavor of these cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor and texture.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them to extend freshness.

How long do these cookies last after baking?

When stored properly, they can last up to 5 days at room temperature or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These vegan marshmallows Hot Cocoa Surprise Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Whether enjoyed as a treat during cozy nights or shared with friends, they are sure to please everyone. Experiment with different mix-ins like nuts or spices to make this recipe your own!