Decadent Gluten Free Hot Cocoa Cookies with Marshmallow Bliss

These Decadent Gluten Free Hot Cocoa Cookies with Marshmallow Bliss are pure comfort in bite-sized form. They taste like a cup of rich hot cocoa turned into a soft, chewy cookie topped with pillowy marshmallow perfect for cold nights or a cozy celebration. If you love simple gluten-free baking, this cookie pairs well with many other treats like a light wafer or biscuit recipe such as this gluten-free communion wafers.

What makes these cookies a cozy treat

I love these cookies because they feel seasonal and playful without extra fuss. The dough mixes in one bowl. The cocoa gives a deep chocolate note while the marshmallow adds a nostalgic crunch and gooey center as it melts. They work for kids’ parties, an afternoon snack, or when you want a quick homemade gift. They also fit well on a cookie plate alongside other gluten-free bakes for instance, a small, crisp wafer like this gluten-free communion wafers pairs nicely for variety.

Reasons you’ll fall for these hot cocoa cookies

These cookies deliver a cozy flavor with everyday ingredients. You get warm chocolate notes from cocoa and brown sugar, plus a touch of vanilla. The texture stays soft in the center and slightly crisp at the edges. Most pantry staples cover everything you need, so you probably already have them on hand.

They are quick to make and easy to love. The recipe skips complicated steps. You don’t need special equipment. From mixing to baking, it moves fast about 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to bake. That makes them great for last-minute baking or for when guests drop by.

Ingredients and smart swaps

Below is what you’ll need and a few reliable swaps so the cookies suit different diets.

What you’ll need for this recipe

• 1 1/4 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (or dairy-free butter)
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
• 1 cup mini marshmallows (use vegan marshmallows if needed)
• Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate

Smart swaps for dietary needs

• Dairy-free: Use dairy-free butter and dairy-free yogurt. Choose vegan mini marshmallows.
• Egg-free: Use 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg (let sit 5 minutes).
• Nut-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend that is nut-free and avoid almond-based mixes.
• Lower sugar: Reduce brown sugar to 1/2 cup and add 2-3 tbsp applesauce to keep moisture.

Smart variation (Optional)

For a nuttier bite, fold in 1/2 cup toasted, chopped hazelnuts or walnuts (if no allergy). For extra cocoa punch, swap 1/4 cup of the flour for more cocoa and add an extra egg white to help structure.

How to make Decadent Gluten Free Hot Cocoa Cookies with Marshmallow Bliss

Follow these clear steps for a successful bake. Read through once before starting.

Step-by-step cooking instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk the gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter with brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
4. Beat in the egg (or flax egg), vanilla, and sour cream until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet and stir until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
6. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared tray, spacing 2 inches apart.
7. Press 3–4 mini marshmallows gently into the top of each dough ball.
8. Bake 9–11 minutes until the edges set but centers are still soft.
9. Let cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.

Step	Details
1	Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line trays with parchment.
4	Mix wet ingredients until smooth, then fold in dry mix.
7	Top each dough ball with mini marshmallows before baking.

Tips for texture, timing & tools

• Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies.
• If your gluten-free blend is heavy, add 1–2 tbsp milk (dairy or plant) to loosen dough.
• Watch bake time closely. Remove while centers still look slightly underdone for a soft texture.
• Gluten-free dough benefits from a short chill (15–30 minutes) if your kitchen is warm. For more gluten-free baking ideas, you might like this gluten-free Irish soda bread recipe for a different kind of comfort bake.

Keeping and reheating these cookies

How to store it right

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep marshmallows from sticking, layer cookies between sheets of parchment. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating without losing flavor

Warm a cookie for 8–10 seconds in the microwave to make the marshmallow soft again. For a slightly crisp edge, reheat at 300°F (150°C) in the oven for 4–6 minutes. Let them cool briefly before eating.

A dish worth making again and again

These cookies are forgiving and adaptable. Once you make them, you’ll find little tweaks that suit your pantry and taste. They become a go-to when you want homemade comfort fast.

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FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes. Chill the dough in an airtight container for up to 48 hours or freeze scooped dough balls for up to 2 months. Bake straight from chilled or add a minute to bake time if frozen.

Do mini marshmallows melt away completely?

They soften and melt into a glossy top. Using mini marshmallows keeps some texture. For less spread, press marshmallows in after baking for a puffier look.

Is this recipe safe for a nut allergy household?

It can be. Use a certified nut-free gluten-free flour blend and avoid any add-ins with nuts. Check labels for cross-contact warnings.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes. Use dairy-free butter, dairy-free yogurt, and vegan marshmallows. Replace the egg with a flax egg and the cookies will remain tender.

Final Thoughts

These cookies make a simple, joyful treat that fits many diets with a few swaps. If you want a chocolatey, gluten-free cupcake that follows a similar cozy theme, check out these Salted Caramel Macarons for another warm dessert idea.