Molten Hot Cocoa Lava Cookies with Marshmallow Centers

If you’re craving a cookie that delivers the ultimate cozy chocolate experience, look no further than these Molten Hot Cocoa Lava Cookies with Marshmallow Centers. Imagine biting into a rich, fudgy cocoa cookie that oozes warm, gooey chocolate and gooey marshmallow right from the center—pure bliss in every bite! These cookies are the perfect treat for chilly evenings, holiday gatherings, or anytime you need a little chocolate comfort. They’re easy to make, bursting with chocolate flavor, and have just the right amount of sweetness to satisfy your sweet tooth without overwhelming it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for cookie lovers who adore molten centers. Unlike your traditional chocolate cookie, these Molten Hot Cocoa Lava Cookies with Marshmallow Centers have a surprise gooey core that melts delightfully as soon as you take a bite. The combination of unsweetened cocoa powder and semi-sweet chocolate chips creates an indulgent chocolate flavor that’s perfectly balanced by the soft, pillowy marshmallow filling. Plus, the texture is spot-on—soft edges with a slightly chewy center, making these cookies utterly irresistible.

Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to impress. And the best part? The ingredients are simple pantry staples, making it easy to whip up a batch whenever the craving strikes!

What to Buy

• All-purpose flour – The base for our cookie dough, ensuring a tender and soft texture.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds that deep, rich chocolate flavor without extra sweetness.
• Baking soda – Helps the cookies rise just enough to get that perfect soft texture.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter – Softened for easy mixing and to provide a creamy richness.
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and contributes to the crisp edges.
• Brown sugar – Packed for moisture and a subtle caramel note.
• Large egg – Binds everything together and adds structure.
• Vanilla extract – A must-have to round out the flavors and add warmth.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips – For melty pockets of chocolate throughout the cookie.
• Mini marshmallows – The star of the molten center; choose good quality for best melt.

Tools of the Trade

• Mixing bowls – At least two; one for dry ingredients and one for wet.
• Electric mixer or hand whisk – To cream the butter and sugars smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key!
• Baking sheet – For baking the cookies evenly.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – Prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
• Spoon or cookie scoop – To portion out dough evenly.
• Cooling rack – Essential for cooling cookies evenly and maintaining their perfect texture.

The Method for Molten Hot Cocoa Lava Cookies with Marshmallow Centers

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. In one bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer or whisk to cream 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter with 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup packed brown sugar until light and fluffy—about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until fully incorporated. This adds moisture and flavor to the dough.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Fold in 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough for pockets of melty chocolate.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies with Marshmallow Centers

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out a heaping tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place 3 to 4 mini marshmallows in the center, then cover with another tablespoon of dough. Seal the edges carefully, forming a ball with the marshmallow completely enclosed.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the cookie balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft. This ensures the marshmallow inside stays molten.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Serve warm for the best molten center experience.

Spring to Winter: Ideas

• Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a salty-sweet twist.
• Stir in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch and depth.
• Try swapping mini marshmallows with peppermint marshmallows during the winter holidays.
• For a fruity twist, pair these cookies with a side of warm berry compote or a cup of hot cocoa.
• Serve alongside other decadent desserts like Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake for an indulgent dessert spread.
• Pair with coffee or espresso and try them with Mocha Cream Puffs for a mocha lover’s dream combo.

Slip-Ups to Skip

• Don’t overbake! Leaving the cookies in too long will result in a dry center with no molten goodness.
• Be sure to fully enclose the marshmallows in dough to avoid them melting out and burning on the baking sheet.
• Using cold butter can make it harder to cream the sugars properly, so make sure your butter is softened.
• Avoid adding too many chocolate chips or marshmallows, which can cause cookies to spread too much.

Shelf Life & Storage

These cookies are best enjoyed fresh and warm to experience the molten marshmallow center. However, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive that gooey center.

Common Qs About Molten Hot Cocoa Lava Cookies with Marshmallow Centers

Can I make these cookies vegan or dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Use dairy-free chocolate chips and marshmallows to keep the recipe fully plant-based.

What if I don’t have mini marshmallows?

You can cut regular-sized marshmallows into smaller pieces to fit inside the cookie dough. Alternatively, try using marshmallow fluff by spooning a small dollop into the center, but be careful as it melts differently and may spread during baking.

How do I prevent the marshmallow from leaking out?

Make sure to fully encase the marshmallow pieces with cookie dough and pinch the edges tightly to seal. Slightly chilling the dough balls before baking can also help maintain their shape.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cookie dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature slightly before shaping and baking.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Oreo Brownies – A fun twist on classic brownies with a cookie surprise inside.
• Almond flour chocolate chip cookies – A grain-free alternative with a nutty flavor.
• Greek yogurt chocolate mousse – A creamy dessert with added protein and less sugar.
• Banana oat pancakes – Naturally sweetened and perfect for a balanced breakfast.

Before You Go

Before you dive into these Molten Hot Cocoa Lava Cookies with Marshmallow Centers, make sure you have all your ingredients prepped and your oven preheated. This recipe is all about timing to keep that marshmallow center beautifully molten. Don’t forget to share this cozy treat with your loved ones, and if you love chocolatey goodness, you might also want to explore other decadent desserts like Mocha Cream Puffs. Happy baking!

Rich, chocolatey, and irresistibly gooey—these cookies are not just a dessert; they’re an experience. Whether curled up on the couch or hosting a festive party, the Molten Hot Cocoa Lava Cookies with Marshmallow Centers are bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. So grab your mixing bowls, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in a molten chocolate dream come true!

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