Sweet Vanilla Hot Chocolate Molten Cookies Imagine biting into a warm, gooey chocolate cookie that tastes just like your favorite mug of creamy vanilla hot chocolate. That’s exactly what these homemade cookies are like! They’re soft, rich, and full of melty chocolate—just like a lava cookie. I made them with real vanilla extract, semi-sweet chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and the best part—big chunks of dark chocolate that melt into little pools when baked. A light sprinkle of sea salt on top makes them even more irresistible. When you eat them warm, the chocolate oozes perfectly, making every bite unbelievably delicious. They’re sweet but not too sweet—just right. Honestly, these are the perfect cookies to bake, share, or even wrap up as gifts this holiday season!
It’s finally here—the most wonderful time of the year… holiday cookie season! And you guys, I’ve been baking like crazy. Between these cookies, a new recipe I’m sharing on Friday, and the big holiday cookie box I’m working on, my kitchen has been full of cookies nonstop.
I’m not complaining, though—it’s been so much fun, and I’m really excited for you to try all these recipes. Since I’m trying to get the cookie box ready soon, I’ve been testing recipes every single day (and sometimes even late at night!).
Don’t get me wrong—I love holiday baking, but wow, it can be a lot of work! These hot cocoa cookies took me a few tries to get just right, but they were totally worth it. I’m so happy with how they turned out, and I can’t wait for you to try them!
One thing that makes these cookies different from other hot chocolate cookies? I decided to skip the marshmallows. But don’t worry—you won’t even miss them! These cookies are packed with so much chocolatey goodness that they’re absolutely perfect just the way they are.
The idea for these cookies actually came from the hot chocolate I make for my sister, Asher, every night during the holidays. She always comes into the kitchen when it gets dark outside (while my dad and I are cleaning up the studio) and asks for a warm mug of cocoa. She picks out her favorite Christmas mug, and I make her the simplest, coziest hot chocolate. It’s just right—creamy, sweet, and full of vanilla flavor.
These cookies have all the same flavors I use in her hot chocolate, but in cookie form!
How to Make Them (Step by Step)
Step 1: Melt the Butter & Chocolate
First, melt the butter and dark chocolate chunks together. The mixture will be thick and glossy—that’s exactly what you want!
Step 2: Whisk the Eggs & Sugar
In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to whisk the eggs and sugar together until they’re light and bubbly. This is the secret to getting that melt-in-your-mouth texture! Make sure your eggs are at room temperature and whisk them really well—you should see lots of tiny bubbles on top.
Oh, and you’ll notice I use a lot of vanilla—two whole tablespoons! That might seem like a lot, but trust me, it makes the cookies taste amazing. The vanilla adds a deep, warm flavor that balances out all the chocolate perfectly.
Now, mix in the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
Step 3: Add the Chocolate Chunks
Here’s where the magic happens! I use a big 6.3-ounce bar of dark chocolate and chop it into large chunks. The bigger the chunks, the better—because when they melt in the oven, they create those irresistible gooey pockets in every cookie.
Step 4: Freeze the Dough
Roll the dough into balls (it’s sticky, so a cookie scoop or small ice cream scoop helps a lot). Then, place them on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer for 15–30 minutes. Don’t skip this step! Chilling the dough helps the cookies bake up perfectly—soft in the middle with crispy edges.
Step 5: Bake & Enjoy!
Bake them just until they’re set, then sprinkle a little sea salt on top if you like. And that’s it—warm, melty hot chocolate cookies ready to devour!
Oh, and one more thing—if you really want to take these cookies to the next level, try dipping them in whipped cream. It’s so good.
Last Thing—Let Me Know What You Think!
If you make these Vanilla Hot Chocolate Molten Cookies, leave a comment or give the recipe a rating! I love hearing from you and always do my best to reply to every single message. And if you post a photo on Instagram, don’t forget to tag me—seeing your cookie creations is my absolute favorite part of sharing recipes!
