Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies (Chocolate Snickerdoodles)

These Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies, also known as Chocolate Snickerdoodles, are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With their moist texture and unique blend of chocolate and cinnamon, they offer a delicious twist on the traditional cookie. Whether you’re hosting a party, cozying up with a good book, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of rich cocoa and warm cinnamon creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for holiday gatherings, casual snacking, or as a homemade gift for friends and family.
• Chewy Texture: Enjoy a soft, fudgy center with slightly crisp edges that make each bite delightful.
• Quick Baking Time: Bake these cookies in just 10-12 minutes for an instant sweet fix.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the right tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone mats
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing ingredients effortless and ensures even blending for a consistent dough.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect cookie texture and flavor.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of your bowl to incorporate all ingredients fully.
• Wire rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly, preventing sogginess while maintaining their delightful texture.

Ingredients

These Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies could also be called Chocolate Snickerdoodles. A moist and tender chocolate cookie, with slightly crisp edges and a perfectly crackly top, rolled in cinnamon sugar for the perfect chocolate-cinnamon combo!

For the Dough

• 1 cup butter (softened (2 sticks))
• 1 & 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 & 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1 & 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For Rolling

• 1/4 to 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
• 1 & 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon (for rolling)

How to Make Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies (Chocolate Snickerdoodles)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add in the granulated sugar (1 & 1/2 cups) and mix for about two minutes until light and fluffy. Remember to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add two large eggs along with one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Add the unsweetened cocoa powder and all-purpose flour but do not mix yet. Create a well in the center of the flour.

Step 5: Incorporate Remaining Dry Ingredients

Into the well, add one & 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar, one teaspoon baking soda, half a teaspoon baking powder, and half a teaspoon kosher salt. Use a small spoon to blend these dry ingredients into the well before they touch any wet ingredients.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Turn on your mixer to low speed. Gradually beat in the flour-cocoa mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; scrape down sides as needed.

Step 7: Chilling Option

If desired, you can cover the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours; however, this step is optional since you can bake them right away.

Step 8: Shape the Cookies

Shape dough into uniform rounds using about 2-3 tablespoons each.

Step 9: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a shallow bowl, combine either 1/4 or 1/3 cup granulated sugar with one & 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon based on preference. Roll each ball of dough in this cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Step 10: Arrange on Baking Sheets

Place rolled dough balls on prepared cookie sheets at least two inches apart from each other.

Step 11: Bake

Bake at 350 degrees F for about 10-12 minutes or until edges are set while keeping centers soft and shiny. Keep an eye on them as oven temperatures may vary.

Step 12: Cool Slightly

Let cookies rest on baking sheet for about two minutes after removing from oven.

Step 13: Re-Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

Using a spatula, transfer each cookie back into the bowl with remaining cinnamon sugar while still warm.

Step 14: Final Coating

Sprinkle more cinnamon-sugar mixture on top of each cookie while they are hot to ensure coating sticks well.

Step 15: Transfer to Cooling Rack

Carefully move cookies onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 16: Enjoy!

Enjoy these Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies while still warm! They are fudgy in the center—perfect alongside a glass of milk!

How to Serve Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies (Chocolate Snickerdoodles)

Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies, also known as Chocolate Snickerdoodles, are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether at a cozy gathering or as a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to impress.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pairing these cookies with a glass of cold milk amplifies their rich chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness.

As Dessert Topping

• Crumble the cookies over vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that combines warmth and coolness in every bite.

For Coffee Lovers

• Serve alongside a cup of coffee or hot cocoa. The chocolate-cinnamon combo complements the warm beverage perfectly.

At Parties

• These cookies make an excellent addition to dessert platters at parties. Their unique flavor will attract guests and spark conversations.

Gift Giving

• Package them in decorative boxes or bags for thoughtful gifts during holidays or special occasions.

How to Perfect Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies (Chocolate Snickerdoodles)

Perfecting your Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies will elevate your baking game. Here are some tips to ensure delicious results every time.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes can help enhance the flavors and improve texture.
• Use Quality Cocoa Powder: Investing in high-quality cocoa powder will bring out richer chocolate notes in your cookies.
• Watch Your Oven Temperature: Baking at the recommended temperature is crucial. Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies to avoid overbaking.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep your cookies tender and chewy.
• Fresh Spices Matter: Using fresh cinnamon enhances flavor. Old spices can diminish the taste and aroma of your cookies.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor variation.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies (Chocolate Snickerdoodles)

These cookies pair well with various sides that enhance their flavors. Here are some tasty options you might consider.

1. Ice Cream
   A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream creates a delightful contrast to the warm cookies.

2. Fruit Salad
   Fresh fruit adds brightness and balances the richness of the chocolate, making it a refreshing side.

3. Hot Cocoa
   A warm cup of hot cocoa intensifies the chocolate experience, perfect for chilly days.

4. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses like Brie or Gouda provides savory notes that complement sweet desserts beautifully.

5. Nut Butter Spread
   Spread almond or peanut butter on halves of cookies for an extra layer of creaminess and flavor.

6. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with fruits and crumbled cookies for a fun twist on breakfast or dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies (Chocolate Snickerdoodles), it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step may cause the cookies to spread too much while baking. Chill for at least 30 minutes for better shape.
• Incorrect oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot can burn the edges before the center cooks. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Skipping the rolling in cinnamon sugar: This adds flavor and texture. Make sure each cookie is well-coated before baking.
• Baking on unprepared sheets: Baking directly on ungreased sheets can lead to sticking. Always line your sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies (Chocolate Snickerdoodles)

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once solid.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies (Chocolate Snickerdoodles)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies (Chocolate Snickerdoodles):

Can I use different types of sugar?

Yes! You can use brown sugar for a richer flavor, but it may alter the texture slightly.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

The edges should be set while the centers remain soft and shiny. They will continue cooking as they cool.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your cookies by adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.

What if I don’t have cream of tartar?

You can replace cream of tartar with an equal amount of lemon juice or vinegar, which will help activate the baking soda.

Final Thoughts

These Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies (Chocolate Snickerdoodles) are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with additional spices or mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Try these delightful treats and experience the perfect blend of chocolate and cinnamon!