Ingredients

3/4 cup butter (softened)

3/4 cup sugar

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

2 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup instant hot cocoa mix

3 tablespoons cocoa powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1 cup marshmallow bits (plus more for garnish)

1-1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (save a handful for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375˚F.

Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until combined.

Step 3: Add the flour, instant hot cocoa mix, cocoa powder, salt, baking soda, and baking powder to the wet ingredients. Stir until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Fold in the semisweet chocolate chips and marshmallow bits evenly throughout the dough.

Step 5: Using a medium cookie scoop (about 2 tablespoons), drop dough balls onto an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Garnish each with extra marshmallow bits and chocolate chips if desired.

Step 6: Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, until the edges are crisp and the centers are set. For bakery-style cookies, right after removing from the oven, use an upside-down glass to gently roll the edges, creating a perfectly round shape with defined edges.

Step 7: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips for a richer chocolate flavor.

Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the warmth and depth of the cookies.

For a nutty twist, mix in chopped toasted pecans or walnuts.

If marshmallow bits are unavailable, mini marshmallows chopped into small pieces work well.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of instant hot cocoa mix?

You can, but the instant hot cocoa mix adds sweetness and a specific flavor blend that regular cocoa powder lacks. If substituting, adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly.

Why do the marshmallow bits not melt completely in the cookies?

Marshmallow bits are designed to hold their shape when baked, giving little bursts of marshmallow texture rather than melting entirely into the dough. This creates a delightful chew and contrast in each bite.