Ingredients

1 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

½ cup granulated sugar

½ cup packed brown sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

24 mini marshmallows

¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

3 tablespoons heavy cream

Holiday sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.

Step 3: In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then mix well.

Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.

Step 5: Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them apart.

Step 6: Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven. Press one mini marshmallow into the center of each cookie and return to the oven for an additional 2–3 minutes, until marshmallows start to soften and puff.

Step 7: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: While cookies cool, melt the chocolate chips with heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth to make a ganache.

Step 9: Spoon the warm ganache over each marshmallow-topped cookie and add holiday sprinkles if desired. Allow ganache to set before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra fudgy cookies, replace half the butter with cream cheese.

Use dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate flavor.

Swap mini marshmallows for peppermint marshmallows to add a festive twist.

To make these gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.

Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to improve thickness and texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular-sized marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?

Regular-sized marshmallows are much larger and may melt unevenly on these cookies. Mini marshmallows work best to create a balanced topping that melts just right.

Is it okay to skip the ganache topping?

Yes, the cookies are delicious on their own with melted marshmallows. The ganache adds richness and a glossy finish but can be omitted for a simpler treat.