Chocolate chip marshmallow cookies bring together the classic comfort of chocolate chip cookies with the irresistible gooeyness of melted marshmallows. These cookies have a perfect balance of crispy edges, chewy centers, and pockets of melty, stretchy marshmallow goodness in every bite.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make perfect chocolate chip marshmallow cookies, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering baking techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this step-by-step breakdown will help you create cookies that are both delicious and visually appealing.

Now, let’s dive into everything you need to know about these decadent, soft, and chewy treats.

What Are Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookies?

The Classic Cookie with a Twist

Chocolate chip cookies have been a favorite for generations, but adding marshmallows elevates them to another level. The contrast between crispy cookie edges, gooey melted marshmallows, and rich chocolate chips creates a texture and flavor combination that stands out.

These cookies are especially popular around the holidays or when you’re craving a warm, comforting dessert. They are a hybrid between traditional chocolate chip cookies and s’mores, making them a favorite among both kids and adults.

Why Marshmallows Make Cookies Even Better

Adding marshmallows to cookies does more than just enhance the sweetness. They introduce a chewy, gooey element that makes each bite more enjoyable. When baked properly, the marshmallows caramelize slightly, giving the cookies an extra layer of depth and a slightly toasted flavor.

Marshmallows also help create beautiful pockets of melted sugar in the cookies, which can result in a more soft and pillowy texture. However, if not handled correctly, they can melt too much and disappear into the cookie dough, leaving an empty sugary space instead of a gooey bite.

To make the best chocolate chip marshmallow cookies, you’ll need to understand how to incorporate the marshmallows properly to avoid losing their texture and taste during baking. We’ll discuss the best techniques for this in the upcoming sections.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookies

Choosing the Right Chocolate Chips

The type of chocolate chips you use significantly impacts the flavor and texture of your cookies. Here are a few options to consider:

• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: The most common choice for chocolate chip cookies, providing the perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness.
• Milk chocolate chips: Sweeter and creamier, making the cookies taste even more indulgent.
• Dark chocolate chips: Ideal for those who enjoy a richer, slightly bitter taste that balances the sweetness of the marshmallows.
• Chocolate chunks: Instead of chips, using chopped chocolate or chunks results in larger, melted pockets of chocolate throughout the cookies.

The Best Marshmallows for Cookies

Marshmallows vary in size and composition, so choosing the right type is essential for getting the best texture:

• Mini marshmallows: These are the easiest to work with as they distribute evenly throughout the dough.
• Regular marshmallows (cut into pieces): If you only have large marshmallows, cutting them into smaller pieces works well, but they may melt more unpredictably.
• Freeze-dried marshmallows: A great alternative if you want to prevent excessive melting and maintain some chewiness.

Flour, Butter, and Sugar: The Essentials

Every ingredient in cookie dough plays a crucial role in determining texture, taste, and structure:

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cookies. A mix of all-purpose and cake flour can result in a softer cookie.
• Unsalted butter: Using melted or softened butter will affect the final texture. Melted butter results in a denser cookie, while softened butter creates a fluffier dough.
• Brown sugar & granulated sugar: Brown sugar adds moisture and chewiness due to its molasses content, while granulated sugar helps with spreading and crispiness.
• Eggs: Essential for binding ingredients together and adding richness to the dough. Using an extra egg yolk can make cookies more tender.
• Baking soda & baking powder: Baking soda helps with spread and chewiness, while baking powder makes cookies puffier.

These ingredients work together to ensure your chocolate chip marshmallow cookies turn out soft, chewy, and full of flavor.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookies

Mixing the Dough: Getting the Right Consistency

The dough for these cookies needs to be thick yet soft to hold both the chocolate chips and marshmallows without spreading too much. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect consistency:

1. Cream the butter and sugars together – In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This helps incorporate air, resulting in a softer texture.
2. Add eggs and vanilla extract – Beat in one egg at a time, followed by a teaspoon of high-quality vanilla extract. The eggs add moisture and richness to the dough.
3. Mix dry ingredients separately – In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt to ensure even distribution.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients – Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully incorporated. The dough should be thick enough to scoop but not too dry.
5. Fold in chocolate chips and marshmallows – Gently stir in the chocolate chips first. Then, add the marshmallows carefully to avoid crushing them.

How to Incorporate Marshmallows Without Them Melting Too Much

To prevent marshmallows from completely disappearing into the dough, follow these tips:

• Freeze the marshmallows before baking – This slows down their melting process in the oven.
• Press marshmallows into the dough after scooping – Instead of mixing them fully into the dough, press a few on top before baking.
• Use mini marshmallows sparingly – Too many marshmallows in the dough can cause excess spreading and burning.

Baking Tips for Gooey and Crispy Cookies

Getting the perfect texture requires the right baking time and temperature:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) – A consistent temperature ensures even baking.
• Use parchment paper – This prevents cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Scoop uniform cookie dough balls – Use a cookie scoop to ensure even sizing.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes – Remove the cookies when the edges turn golden brown but the centers still look slightly underbaked. They will continue to set as they cool.
• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes – This helps them firm up without overbaking.

By following these steps, you’ll achieve soft, chewy chocolate chip marshmallow cookies with a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookies

How to Prevent Marshmallows from Melting Too Much

Marshmallows tend to melt quickly in the oven, often disappearing into the dough and leaving behind sugary gaps. To prevent this from happening, here are some expert techniques:

• Freeze the marshmallows before baking – This slows down their melting process, allowing them to hold their shape longer.
• Press marshmallows into the dough rather than mixing them in – If you fully incorporate marshmallows into the dough, they will melt more easily. Instead, place them on top or in the middle of the cookie dough balls before baking.
• Use a combination of mini and regular marshmallows – Mini marshmallows distribute better in the dough, while larger ones create gooey pockets without fully melting away.
• Bake at a lower temperature for a longer time – If your marshmallows are melting too quickly, try baking at 325°F (163°C) instead of 350°F (175°C) for a slightly longer time.
• Place dough balls in the fridge before baking – Chilled dough spreads less, helping the marshmallows stay intact rather than dissolving too fast.

Getting the Perfect Cookie Texture

The texture of chocolate chip marshmallow cookies depends on the balance of ingredients and baking techniques. Here’s how to achieve your ideal consistency:

• For a chewy texture: Use more brown sugar than granulated sugar, as brown sugar retains moisture.
• For thicker cookies: Reduce the butter slightly and increase the flour by 2-3 tablespoons to help the dough hold its shape.
• For crispy edges and a soft center: Bake until the edges turn golden brown but the centers still look slightly underbaked. Let them finish setting on the tray after removing them from the oven.
• For a gooey texture: Add a bit of cornstarch (about 1 teaspoon) to the dough, which helps create a soft, tender texture.

Storing and Reheating for Maximum Freshness

Freshly baked cookies are always the best, but you can store and reheat them properly to maintain their chewy and gooey texture:

• Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
• For softer cookies: Place a slice of bread in the container to prevent the cookies from drying out. The bread absorbs excess moisture, keeping the cookies fresh.
• Freezing: Store baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
• Reheating: For a fresh-from-the-oven taste, place cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3-5 minutes.

Variations and Creative Additions

S’mores Cookies: A Campfire-Inspired Twist

If you love the combination of chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows, turning your cookies into s’mores cookies is a fantastic option. Here’s how:

• Add crushed graham crackers – Replace ¼ cup of the flour with crushed graham cracker crumbs for a toasty, nutty flavor.
• Use chocolate chunks instead of chocolate chips – Larger pieces of chocolate will give your cookies a melted, gooey texture, just like a real s’more.
• Top with extra marshmallows after baking – If the marshmallows inside your cookies melt too much, add a few extra pieces on top as soon as they come out of the oven.

Stuffed Marshmallow Chocolate Chip Cookies

For an even gooier surprise, try stuffing each cookie with a whole marshmallow before baking. Follow these steps:

1. Scoop two tablespoons of dough and flatten it slightly.
2. Place a regular-sized marshmallow in the center.
3. Cover it with another scoop of dough and pinch the edges to seal it completely.
4. Bake as usual, and enjoy cookies with a melted marshmallow center.

Adding Nuts, Caramel, or Coconut

If you want to enhance your cookies with extra flavors and textures, consider these add-ins:

• Chopped walnuts or pecans: Add a nutty crunch that balances the sweetness of the marshmallows.
• Caramel bits: Combine marshmallows with soft caramel chunks for an extra rich, buttery taste.
• Shredded coconut: A sprinkle of toasted coconut on top before baking gives the cookies a tropical twist.
• Peanut butter chips: Peanut butter and chocolate are a classic combo that pairs beautifully with marshmallows.

Common Baking Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Why Your Cookies Spread Too Much

One of the most common problems with chocolate chip marshmallow cookies is that they can spread too much, becoming thin and flat. Here’s how to prevent that:

• Use chilled dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps cookies hold their shape.
• Check your butter consistency: If the butter is too soft or melted, the dough will be too runny. Use room-temperature butter, not melted.
• Measure flour correctly: Always use the spoon-and-level method instead of scooping flour directly with the measuring cup, which can lead to inaccurate measurements.
• Avoid over-mixing: Overworking the dough activates the gluten, making cookies too thin and tough.

What to Do If Your Cookies Are Too Hard

If your cookies turned out too dry or hard, try these fixes:

• Reduce baking time: Overbaking is the #1 reason cookies turn hard. Remove them from the oven when the edges are golden but the center still looks slightly undercooked.
• Use more brown sugar than white sugar: Brown sugar has more moisture, which helps keep cookies soft and chewy.
• Add an extra egg yolk: This increases fat content, making the cookies richer and softer.
• Check your oven temperature: Some ovens run hotter than the set temperature. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

How to Avoid Burnt Marshmallows

Burnt marshmallows can ruin the look and taste of your cookies. Here’s how to avoid this issue:

• Cover marshmallows with dough: If marshmallows are exposed on top, they tend to burn. Try wrapping them in the cookie dough or pressing them slightly inside the dough ball.
• Use mini marshmallows instead of large ones: Large marshmallows expand and burn faster. Smaller pieces distribute more evenly.
• Lower your oven rack: If your marshmallows are burning too quickly, try baking on a lower oven rack to reduce direct heat exposure.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to troubleshoot any cookie mishaps and bake perfect chocolate chip marshmallow cookies every time.

Pairing and Serving Ideas for Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookies

The Best Drinks to Enjoy with Your Cookies

Chocolate chip marshmallow cookies are already delicious on their own, but the right drink pairing can elevate the experience even more. Here are some perfect beverages to enjoy with these gooey treats:

• Classic Cold Milk – Nothing complements warm cookies better than a cold glass of milk. The creamy texture and mild sweetness balance out the rich chocolate and gooey marshmallow.
• Hot Cocoa – Double down on the chocolatey goodness by pairing these cookies with a cup of thick, creamy hot cocoa. Add some whipped cream or extra marshmallows on top for a cozy dessert pairing.
• Coffee or Espresso – The bitterness of coffee contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies. A shot of espresso or a latte is an excellent choice for a more grown-up treat.
• Vanilla or Chocolate Milkshake – If you’re craving something indulgent, a thick milkshake pairs wonderfully with warm cookies, creating a delightful dessert duo.
• Almond or Oat Milk – For a dairy-free alternative, almond or oat milk provides a smooth, nutty flavor that complements the cookies without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Serve These Gooey Treats

While eating cookies fresh out of the oven is always a great idea, there are many fun ways to serve chocolate chip marshmallow cookies for special occasions or just to mix things up:

• Ice Cream Sandwiches – Take two cookies and place a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream between them. Freeze for a few minutes and enjoy a homemade ice cream sandwich.
• Cookie S’mores – Instead of graham crackers, use these cookies to make s’mores. Add a piece of chocolate and a toasted marshmallow between two cookies for the ultimate gooey treat.
• Drizzled with Caramel or Chocolate Sauce – A warm cookie drizzled with melted caramel or chocolate sauce adds a rich, decadent touch.
• With Whipped Cream and Berries – Serve cookies with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fancier dessert plate.
• Crumbled Over Yogurt or Ice Cream – Break the cookies into smaller pieces and sprinkle them over vanilla yogurt or ice cream for added texture and sweetness.

Whether you’re serving these cookies at a party, holiday gathering, or just enjoying a midnight snack, these pairing and serving ideas will take your cookies to the next level.

FAQs – Answering Common Questions About Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookies

1. Can I add marshmallows to my chocolate chip cookies?

Yes! Marshmallows add a chewy, gooey texture to traditional chocolate chip cookies. However, to keep them from melting too much, try using mini marshmallows or pressing them into the dough instead of fully mixing them in.

2. How to add marshmallows to cookies without them melting?

To prevent marshmallows from melting and disappearing into the dough:

• Freeze them for 15-30 minutes before adding them to the dough.
• Place them in the center of the dough ball instead of mixing them throughout.
• Use parchment paper to avoid marshmallow sticking to the baking sheet.

3. Can you add mini marshmallows to chocolate chip cookies?

Yes! Mini marshmallows are the best option because they distribute evenly throughout the dough and don’t overwhelm the cookies. If using larger marshmallows, cut them into small pieces or place them on top of the cookie dough before baking.

4. What is a marshmallow cookie and chocolate called?

Cookies that contain marshmallows and chocolate are often called s’mores cookies because they resemble the flavors of a classic s’more. However, chocolate chip marshmallow cookies are simply a delicious twist on the traditional chocolate chip cookie recipe.

5. What happens if you put marshmallows in the oven?

Marshmallows melt and expand when exposed to heat. If placed directly on a baking sheet, they can turn into a sticky mess. However, when used inside cookie dough, they create gooey, soft pockets of melted sugar.

6. Will melted marshmallow stick to parchment paper?

Yes, melted marshmallows are very sticky and can adhere to baking sheets. Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat prevents them from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

By understanding these common baking questions, you can ensure that your chocolate chip marshmallow cookies turn out perfect every time!

The Joy of Baking Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookies

Chocolate chip marshmallow cookies are the ultimate comfort treat, combining the richness of chocolate, the chewiness of marshmallow, and the crispiness of a perfectly baked cookie. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a family dessert night, or just because you’re craving something sweet, this recipe is easy to follow and always a hit.

Final Baking Tips for the Perfect Cookie:

• Use mini marshmallows or freeze larger ones to prevent excessive melting.
• Chill the dough before baking to control spreading.
• Experiment with mix-ins like nuts, caramel, or graham crackers for different flavor profiles.
• Don’t overbake! Cookies continue to set after they come out of the oven.

Whether you enjoy them with a glass of milk, stuffed with ice cream, or as part of a s’mores-inspired treat, these cookies are sure to become a household favorite. Happy baking!

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