Hot Cocoa Cookie Stack

Featured in: Fall Baking

This indulgent dessert features chocolate cookies layered with fluffy marshmallow frosting, assembled into charming stacks that resemble a cozy mug of hot cocoa. The cookies boast a deep cocoa flavor balanced by a sweet, creamy frosting made with marshmallow crème and butter. Decorated with mini marshmallows and a drizzle of melted chocolate, each stack offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, perfect for festive occasions or a comforting treat.

Updated on Wed, 10 Dec 2025 08:46:00 GMT
Warm, inviting photo of Hot Cocoa Mug Cookie Stack: chocolate cookies layered with creamy frosting. Save to Pinterest
Warm, inviting photo of Hot Cocoa Mug Cookie Stack: chocolate cookies layered with creamy frosting. | yummywithmia.com

A playful, decadent dessert featuring layers of chocolate cookies and fluffy marshmallow frosting, stacked to resemble a cozy mug of hot cocoa.

This recipe is a festive favorite that brings warmth and sweetness to any gathering. It’s perfect for cozy evenings and holiday treats.

Ingredients

  • Cookies: 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (50 g) unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter softened, 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar, 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar, 1 large egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 2 tbsp milk
  • Marshmallow Frosting: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter softened, 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar sifted, 1 jar (7 oz/200 g) marshmallow crème, 1 tsp vanilla extract, Pinch of salt
  • Decorations: 1/2 cup (85 g) mini marshmallows, 1/4 cup (40 g) chocolate chips melted (for drizzling), 8 mini candy canes (optional for mug handles)

Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2:
In a medium bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3:
In a large bowl, beat butter and both sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Step 4:
Add egg and vanilla, beating until combined.
Step 5:
Mix in half the dry ingredients, then the milk, then the rest of the dry ingredients.
Step 6:
Scoop tablespoon sized balls onto baking sheets, flattening slightly to 2-inch rounds.
Step 7:
Bake for 1012 minutes until set but still soft. Cool completely.
Step 8:
For frosting, beat butter until creamy. Gradually beat in powdered sugar. Mix in marshmallow crème, vanilla, and salt until fluffy.
Step 9:
To assemble, spread a thick layer of frosting on a cookie, top with another cookie. Repeat to form stacks of three cookies each.
Step 10:
Spread frosting on top, sprinkle with mini marshmallows, and drizzle with melted chocolate.
Step 11:
Press a mini candy cane into the side to create a mug handle, if using.
Step 12:
Chill stacks 10 minutes before serving for best results.
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| yummywithmia.com

This dessert has become a beloved treat at our family gatherings, filling the room with sweet aromas and smiles.

Notes

For a festive touch, use colored sprinkles or crushed peppermint on top. Substitute store-bought chocolate cookies for a shortcut. Pair with hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy treat.

Required Tools

Mixing bowls, Electric mixer, Baking sheets, Parchment paper, Offset spatula or knife

Nutritional Information

Calories 410, Total Fat 20 g, Carbohydrates 56 g, Protein 3 g per stack

Sweet, comforting image of a fully assembled Hot Cocoa Mug Cookie Stack, ready to enjoy with a friend. Save to Pinterest
Sweet, comforting image of a fully assembled Hot Cocoa Mug Cookie Stack, ready to enjoy with a friend. | yummywithmia.com

This indulgent treat is sure to warm hearts and impress guests with its charming presentation.

Common Recipe Questions

How do I achieve soft yet sturdy chocolate cookies?

Use a combination of creamed butter and sugars to create a light texture. Avoid overbaking to keep cookies tender but firm enough for stacking.

What gives the frosting its fluffy texture?

Incorporating marshmallow crème with whipped butter and powdered sugar creates a light, airy frosting perfect for layering.

Can I prepare the cookie stacks ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and chill the stacks for at least 10 minutes before serving to help them set and hold their shape.

Are there decorating tips to enhance the presentation?

Adding mini marshmallows, drizzled melted chocolate, and candy cane handles creates a festive and inviting appearance.

Can substitutions be made for convenience?

Store-bought chocolate cookies can be used to simplify preparation without compromising flavor.

Hot Cocoa Cookie Stack

Layers of chocolate cookies with marshmallow frosting create a festive, cozy dessert stack.

Prep Time
30 minutes
Cooking Duration
12 minutes
Overall Time
42 minutes
Created by Mia

Recipe Type Fall Baking

Skill Level Medium

Culinary Origin American

Total Output 8 Portion Size

Dietary Preferences Vegetarian-Friendly

What You'll Need

Cookies

01 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
03 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
04 1/4 teaspoon salt
05 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
06 3/4 cup granulated sugar
07 1/4 cup brown sugar
08 1 large egg
09 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
10 2 tablespoons milk

Marshmallow Frosting

01 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
03 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow crème
04 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 Pinch of salt

Decorations

01 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
02 1/4 cup chocolate chips, melted for drizzling
03 8 mini candy canes (optional)

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Prepare Oven and Baking Sheets: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 02

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 03

Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about two minutes.

Step 04

Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in egg and vanilla extract until combined.

Step 05

Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Milk: Mix in half the dry ingredients, then add milk, followed by remaining dry ingredients; mix until just combined.

Step 06

Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto prepared baking sheets, flatten slightly into two-inch rounds.

Step 07

Bake and Cool: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until set but still soft. Allow cookies to cool completely on wire racks.

Step 08

Prepare Frosting: Beat butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar. Mix in marshmallow crème, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until fluffy.

Step 09

Assemble Stacks: Spread a thick layer of frosting on a cookie, top with another cookie; repeat to form stacks of three cookies each.

Step 10

Decorate: Spread frosting on top of stacks, sprinkle with mini marshmallows, and drizzle with melted chocolate.

Step 11

Apply Candy Cane Handles: Press a mini candy cane into the side of each stack to resemble a mug handle, if desired.

Step 12

Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate stacks for 10 minutes to set frosting before serving.

Tools Required

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper
  • Offset spatula or knife

Allergy Warnings

Please review individual ingredients for potential allergens and reach out to a healthcare professional if unsure.
  • Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy
  • May contain soy in chocolate chips or marshmallow crème

Nutritional Info (per serving)

These details are for reference only and shouldn't replace professional medical consultation.
  • Calories Count: 410
  • Fats: 20 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 56 grams
  • Proteins: 3 grams