Name: Cozy Up with Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups for Winter Joy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 39 min
Ingredients: 1 package Pillsbury Sugar Cookie Dough (Can substitute with homemade dough); 1 cup Mini Pretzels (Can use pretzel rods as alternative); ½ cup Heavy Whipping Cream (Use half-and-half for a lighter version); 2 tablespoons Hot Cocoa Mix (Opt for gourmet cocoa for richer taste); 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (Dark chocolate chips for deeper flavor); ½ cup Jet-Puffed Mallow Bits (Regular mini marshmallows can be used); ¼ cup White Chocolate Chips (Can be replaced with extra semi-sweet chocolate chips)

The moment the first snowflakes drifted down outside my window, I knew it was hot chocolate season. But instead of just warming up a mug, why not up the ante with these delightful Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups? Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, sweet sugar cookie base that cradles a silky hot chocolate ganache, crowned with fluffy mini marshmallows. These little treats are not just a feast for the eyes; they’re quick to whip up and perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings or cozy winter nights. Whether you’re hosting a cookie exchange or simply treating yourself, these cookie cups are sure to warm your heart. Ready to roll up your sleeves and create some sweet magic in the kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why Will You Love Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups?

Irresistible winter treat: These Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups are perfect for cozy gatherings, bringing joy to your taste buds and warm memories to every bite.

Customizable fun: Easily adapt the recipe by experimenting with different fillings or cookie cup shapes, making it a hit at any party.

Guilty-free indulgence: With only about 104 calories each, they offer a sweet escape without the guilt.

Quick & easy: Whip these up quickly for spontaneous get-togethers or holiday celebrations; no one will believe how simple they are!

Crowd-pleaser: With their adorable presentation and delightful flavors, you’ll surely impress your friends and family, just like you did with Salted Caramel Chocolate or Brown Butter Chocolate.

Get ready to enjoy a delightful fusion of flavors that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe!

Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups Ingredients

For the Cookie Cups

Pillsbury Sugar Cookie Dough – Provides sweetness and structure; can substitute with homemade dough for a more personalized flavor.
Mini Pretzels – Serve as unique handles for the cookie cups, offering a fun, crunchy texture; pretzel rods can be a creative alternative.

For the Chocolate Ganache

Heavy Whipping Cream – Creates a rich, luscious ganache when combined with chocolate; use half-and-half for a lighter version.
Hot Cocoa Mix – Enhances the chocolate flavor of the ganache; opt for gourmet cocoa for a richer taste.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Forms the foundation of the ganache for a classic chocolate taste; dark chocolate chips can add a deeper flavor.

For the Topping

Jet-Puffed Mallow Bits – Adds a sweet, nostalgic touch on top of the cookie cups; regular mini marshmallows can be used as a substitute.
White Chocolate Chips – Used to attach pretzel handles; can be avoided or replaced with extra semi-sweet chocolate chips if desired.

Get ready to experience the delightful magic of Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is essential for ensuring your Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups bake evenly. While the oven warms up, gather your muffin tin and get ready to prep your cookie dough, making sure it’s at room temperature for easier handling.

Step 2: Prepare Muffin Tins
Grease each cup of your mini muffin tin to prevent sticking. Use about 1 tablespoon of Pillsbury Sugar Cookie Dough for each cup, pressing it down gently to form a small base. For an extra touch, roll the dough in granulated sugar before placing it in the tin, which will create a delightful crust once baked.

Step 3: Bake the Cookie Cups
Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the cookie edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking, as you want a tender texture for your Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups. After baking, allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Make Ganache
While the cookie cups cool, prepare the chocolate ganache. In a small saucepan, bring ½ cup of heavy whipping cream to a gentle boil. Once boiling, remove it from the heat, add in 2 tablespoons of hot cocoa mix, and then pour the hot cream over 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Let it sit for 3 minutes, then stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy.

Step 5: Attach Pretzel Handles
Next, take your mini pretzels and break the loops to create handles. Melt ¼ cup of white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in short bursts, stirring frequently. Dip the ends of the pretzel pieces into the melted chocolate, then press them firmly into the sides of the cooled cookie cups, allowing the chocolate to set as you prepare to fill them.

Step 6: Fill & Decorate
Finally, spoon the rich chocolate ganache into each cookie cup, filling them up to the top but leaving a little space to prevent overflow. To finish off your Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups, generously sprinkle mini marshmallows on top for a fluffy and festive touch. Let them sit for a few moments for the ganache to set, and then they’re ready to serve!

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie cups up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake them and let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. The chocolate ganache can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just reheat gently to restore its smooth texture before filling the cookie cups. When you’re ready to serve, fill each cup with ganache and top with marshmallows just before serving for that delightful fresh look and taste. This way, you’ll have delicious treats on hand with minimal effort on busy days, ensuring that each bite is just as scrumptious as the first!

What to Serve with Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups?

Indulge in a cozy winter feast with delightful pairings that elevate your Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups to a memorable experience.

Aromatic Hot Chocolate: A creamy cup of hot chocolate complements your cookie cups perfectly, creating a charming, warm beverage duo.
Peppermint Bark: This festive treat adds a satisfying crunch and a burst of minty freshness that pairs beautifully with the chocolate flavors.
Winter Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal citrus fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich sweetness of the cookie cups, brightening up each bite.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds delightful creaminess that melts against the warm ganache, creating a symphony of flavors.
Chai Latte: The spices from a warm chai latte enhance the sweet notes of the cookie, wrapping you in a comforting hug with every sip.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Drizzling caramel on top adds an extra layer of sweetness and decadence, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Pecan Pie Bars: Satisfy your love for baked desserts with pecan pie bars; their nuttiness complements the chocolatey goodness of your cookie cups.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, spiced drink is perfect for a cozy evening, enhancing the winter vibes and balancing the sweetness of the cookies.
Chocolate Mint Smoothie: A refreshing smoothie will add a twist of mint flavor, creating a delightful pairing without overwhelming sweetness.

Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups Variations

Feel free to play with these delightful Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups to make them uniquely yours!

Mocha Twist: Replace mini pretzels with chocolate cookie dough for a rich, coffee-flavored treat that’s simply heavenly. Imagine the blend of rich cocoa and the punch of coffee bringing warm flavors to every bite.
Festive Peppermint: Swap out mini marshmallows for crushed peppermint candies for a refreshing, holiday-inspired pop that adds excitement to your cookie cups. The bright minty crunch pairs beautifully with chocolate!
Nutty Surprise: Fill your cookie cups with creamy peanut butter before adding the ganache for an irresistible flavor combination that will leave everyone craving more. Pair this with a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet touch!
Caramel Delight: Try using caramel sauce as a filling instead of ganache for a gooey, decadent experience that’s sure to satisfy a sweet tooth. The sticky sweetness contrasted with the cookie cup makes for a perfect match!
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute Pillsbury Sugar Cookie Dough with gluten-free dough to cater to dietary preferences while still enjoying delicious cookie cups. You won’t notice a difference in taste, just smooth textures!
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to your ganache for a warm, cozy spice that speaks to the heart of winter. This subtle flavor twist warms the soul and adds depth to the chocolate experience.
Fruity Addition: Incorporate a layer of raspberry or strawberry preserves in the cookie cups before filling with ganache for a refreshing fruity burst. It’s a surprise that will have your guests raving about your baking skills!
Vegan-Friendly: For a vegan version, swap out the cream for coconut cream and use vegan chocolate chips. You can still achieve that luscious ganache flavor without compromising on taste!

Looking for more inspiration? Check out these delicious options like Brownie Cookie Dough or try your hand at Chewy Gluten Cookies. Experiment and create combinations that will surely charm your guests!

Expert Tips for Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups

Grease Thoroughly: Ensure muffin tins are well-greased to avoid sticking. Consider using a silicone pan for effortless removal.
Don’t Rush Ganache: Allow the ganache to sit for the full 3 minutes before stirring for the smoothest texture in your Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookie cups while baking to prevent overcooking; they should be soft in the center for the best texture.
Customize Fillings: Get creative with fillings; try adding peanut butter or caramel for a delicious twist inside your cookie cups.
Space for Toppings: When filling the cookie cups with ganache, leave some space for marshmallows to avoid overflow and a messy presentation.

Storage Tips for Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups

Room Temperature: Keep your Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups in a cool, dry place for up to 1 day. If not consumed immediately, it’s best to store them in the fridge for maximum freshness.

Fridge: Store the cookie cups in an airtight container in the fridge for 5-7 days. Make sure they’re covered to maintain their soft texture and prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookie cups in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw your Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups in the fridge overnight. Warm them gently in the microwave for a few seconds if desired, being careful not to melt the ganache.

Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my ingredients are ripe or fresh?
Absolutely! For the best Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups, make sure your Pillsbury Sugar Cookie Dough has not expired and is soft to the touch. When selecting heavy whipping cream, check that it is still within its use-by date and has not separated in the container. Fresh chocolate chips should smell rich and chocolatey without any off odors.

What’s the best way to store Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups?
Very! To keep your Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5-7 days. This will help maintain their soft texture and prevent them from drying out. If you plan to enjoy them later, place them in a cool, dry spot for a day before refrigerating, as this will help them stay nice and soft.

Can I freeze Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups?
Yes! To freeze your Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups, first chill them in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer until frozen solid, which should take about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They can be stored this way for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and warm them briefly in the microwave if desired.

What should I do if my cookie cups are sticking to the muffin tin?
Don’t worry, this happens sometimes! If your cookie cups stick, try using a silicone muffin pan next time, as it’s less likely to cause sticking. If you’re using a metal pan, make sure you’ve greased it thoroughly before adding the dough. If they still stick, gently run a butter knife along the edges to loosen them before popping them out.

Are Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups safe for pets?
No, it’s best to keep these cookie cups away from pets. The ingredients in the chocolate ganache, like chocolate and large amounts of sugar, are harmful to dogs and cats. Always ensure that any treats you make are stored safely out of reach from your furry friends!