Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups

Name: Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 roll (16.5 oz) refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Mini marshmallows; Crushed peppermint or festive sprinkles

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: November 19, 2025

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Introduction to Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups

Nothing says cozy like a warm mug of hot chocolate, don’t you agree? Imagine taking that beloved drink and turning it into delightful bite-sized treats! These Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups blend rich chocolate cookie goodness with velvety ganache and fluffy mini marshmallows. They’re not just adorable; they’re also the quick solution for a busy day or the perfect sweet to impress friends and family. I know that as busy moms and professionals, our time is precious. So, why not create a fun treat that warms the heart while being easy to whip up? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups

Let’s be honest: life gets hectic. That’s why I adore these Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups! They’re incredibly easy to make, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. The flavor is a chocolate explosion that warms your soul. Plus, decorating them with mini marshmallows and festive sprinkles adds a splash of fun. These delightful treats are perfect for both cozy family nights and holiday gatherings, making smiles all around!

Ingredients for Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups

Gather around, cookie lovers! Here’s what you’ll need to create these incredible Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups:

Refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough: This is the base of our cookie cups. The pre-made dough is a huge time-saver, allowing you to enjoy fresh cookies without the fuss.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: These little gems provide that rich chocolate flavor. Feel free to swap these for dark chocolate if you prefer a bittersweet kick!
Heavy cream: This helps create a silky ganache. The creaminess balances the chocolate and adds a luxurious touch.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla takes the flavor up a notch. It adds warmth to our cookie cups that’s simply irresistible.
Mini marshmallows: Topping these cups with fluffy marshmallows makes them reminiscent of your favorite hot chocolate. You can also use larger ones if you want a more dramatic flair!
Crushed peppermint or festive sprinkles: These optional toppings offer a fun, colorful finish perfect for the holidays. They’re like confetti for your cookies!

Don’t worry about measuring out precise amounts just yet—those details are at the bottom of the article for easy printing. Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking!

How to Make Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheating your oven is like giving it a warm-up before the big show! It ensures your cookie cups bake evenly and rise beautifully. Setting it to 350°F (175°C) creates the perfect environment. This step is crucial for that golden brown edge and soft center we all love. Trust me, skipping this could lead to sad, undercooked cookie cups!

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Cups

Now it’s time to assemble the magic! Take your refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough and scoop out about one tablespoon for each muffin cup. Using your fingers, press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of a lightly greased mini muffin tin. You want to form a little cup, creating a cozy home for our chocolate ganache. This step should feel like molding a delightful little chocolate shell!

Step 3: Bake the Cookie Cups

Slide your muffin tin into the preheated oven and let those cookie cups bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you’re looking for edges that turn golden brown while the centers stay slightly soft. When they puff up and start to look like little cookie cups, that’s your cue to remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool a minute before creating the wells!

Step 4: Create the Chocolate Ganache

Let’s dive into chocolatey bliss! In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each gem of heat until you see a silky smooth mixture. This is your chocolate ganache coming to life! Stir in a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth. It’s as easy as that—deliciousness awaits!

Step 5: Fill and Garnish

It’s the moment of truth! Carefully fill each cooled cookie cup with your luscious chocolate ganache. Go ahead, don’t be shy—fill ’em up! Once filled, sprinkle mini marshmallows on top and pop them back in the oven for just 2-3 minutes. This will make the marshmallows gooey and irresistible. Finish with crushed peppermint or festive sprinkles, and voilà—your Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups are ready to shine!

Tips for Success

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother ganache.
Don’t overbake; keep an eye on the cookie cups for that perfect texture.
Try using different types of chocolate chips for variety.
Opt for silicone muffin tins for easy pop-out cookie cups.
Customize toppings to match holidays or special occasions—get creative!

Equipment Needed

Mini muffin tin: A standard baking pan works, but mini tins create perfect cookie cups.
Microwave-safe bowl: Glass or ceramic works great—just avoid metal!
Spoon or shot glass: Use these to create the wells in your cookie cups.
Silicone spatula: This helps scoop the chocolate ganache effortlessly.

Variations for Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups

Nutty Delight: Add some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough for added texture and flavor.
Minty Fresh: Swap crushed peppermint for chocolate mint chips to give your cookie cups a delightful minty kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cookie dough for an inclusive treat everyone can enjoy without compromising flavor.
Peanut Butter Swirl: Mix in a dollop of peanut butter into each cup before adding the ganache for a scrumptious twist.
Vegan Variation: Choose vegan cookie dough and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free indulgence.

Serving Suggestions for Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups

Pair your cookie cups with a steaming mug of hot chocolate for a double chocolate experience.
Serve with a side of whipped cream for added creaminess.
Top with festive holiday decorations for a beautiful presentation at parties.
Enjoy with peppermint tea for a refreshing contrast.
Share them in colorful platters to cheer up your gatherings!

FAQs about Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups

As a fellow home cook, I know that you might have a few questions swirling around. Let’s tackle some of the most common queries about these delightful Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups!

Can I make these cookie cups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie cups a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Just fill them with the chocolate ganache and toppings right before serving to keep everything fresh.

What can I use instead of heavy cream for the ganache?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, whole milk can work in a pinch. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream, which keeps that rich texture we crave!

How should I store leftover cookie cups?

Any leftover cookie cups can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If they last that long, of course! Just give them a quick warm-up in the microwave before enjoying.

Can I freeze Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups?

Yes! These cookie cups freeze beautifully. Just ensure they’re completely cooled, then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to indulge, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.

How do I make these gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups, simply use gluten-free cookie dough. Many brands offer great options that taste just as delicious!

Final Thoughts

Creating these Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups is more than just baking; it’s about making joyful memories with loved ones. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that warms both the heart and the spirit. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day, these little cups of happiness are sure to bring smiles all around. I still remember the giggles of my kids as we decorated them together. So grab your ingredients and indulge in this fun culinary adventure. Trust me, you’ll fall in love with the magic hidden in each cookie cup!