Cocoa cookies are delightful treats that offer a perfect balance of rich chocolate flavor and chewy goodness. These cookies incorporate the irresistible taste of hot cocoa mix, combined with mini chocolate chips, marshmallow bits, and a hint of peppermint, creating a delicious and unique flavor profile. Whether enjoyed as a sweet snack or paired with a warm beverage, cocoa cookies are sure to bring joy to anyone with a love for chocolatey delights.

The history of cocoa cookies can be traced back to the popularity of chocolate chip cookies, which were first created in the 1930s by Ruth Wakefield, the owner of the Toll House Inn. The original recipe called for the incorporation of semisweet chocolate chunks into the cookie dough, leading to the birth of a classic American treat. Over the years, variations of chocolate chip cookies have been experimented with, with bakers adding different ingredients to enhance the chocolate experience.

The concept of adding hot cocoa mix to cookie dough likely emerged as a creative twist on traditional chocolate cookies. By infusing the dough with the flavors of hot cocoa, bakers were able to achieve a richer, more intense chocolate taste in the finished cookies. The addition of mini chocolate chips and marshmallow bits adds extra texture and creaminess, making these cookies even more indulgent.

The crushed starlight mints sprinkled on top give the cookies a refreshing touch of peppermint, elevating the flavor profile and making them an excellent choice for the holiday season or any time of the year.

As with many beloved recipes, cocoa cookies have been passed down through generations of families and shared among friends, evolving over time to suit individual tastes and preferences. Today, they remain a popular treat enjoyed during gatherings, celebrations, and everyday moments of indulgence.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 1/4 cups softened Butter
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar
• 2/3 cup Brown Sugar
• 2 Eggs
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla
• 3 1/4 cups Flour
• 4 Envelopes of Your Favorite Hot Cocoa (Not Sugar-Free)
• 1 1/4 teaspoons Baking Soda
• 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
• 1 cup Mini Chocolate Chips
• 1 cup Jet-Puffed Marshmallow Bits
• 15 Crushed Starlight Mints

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cream butter and sugars together using a stand or hand mixer.
2. Mix in eggs and vanilla.
3. In a medium-size bowl, combine flour, hot cocoa mix, baking soda, and baking powder.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix thoroughly.
5. Stir in the chocolate chips and marshmallows.
6. Cover the bowl and chill the cookie dough for 1 hour.
7. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
8. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop cookies 2 inches apart onto a baking sheet sprayed with baking spray.
9. Bake the cookies for 9-11 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Let the cookies cool for about 1-2 minutes, then sprinkle each with some of the crushed peppermint chips.
11. Allow the cookies to cool for another 3 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack or cookie plate.

Now, savor the delightful blend of chocolate, marshmallow, and peppermint in these scrumptious cocoa cookies. Enjoy them with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of cold milk for the ultimate treat!