Hot Cocoa Brownie Cups

Name: Hot Cocoa Brownie Cups That Will Delight Your Taste Buds
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup mini marshmallows

Posted on October 25, 2025

DESSERT

Difficulty

Prep time

Cooking time

Total time

Servings

Introduction to Hot Cocoa Brownie Cups

As the chilly winds start to blow, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting treat to lift your spirits. That’s where my Hot Cocoa Brownie Cups come in! These delightful little bites are not just brownies; they’re a hug in dessert form. Perfect for busy days when you need a quick pick-me-up or a sweet surprise for your loved ones, these brownie cups are sure to impress. With their rich chocolate flavor and gooey marshmallows, they bring a cozy touch to any gathering. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Hot Cocoa Brownie Cups

These Hot Cocoa Brownie Cups are a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike. They come together in just 35 minutes, making them a quick solution for those hectic days. The rich chocolate flavor paired with fluffy marshmallows creates a taste sensation that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, they’re easy to make, so you can whip them up without breaking a sweat!

Ingredients for Hot Cocoa Brownie Cups

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Hot Cocoa Brownie Cups. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your brownie cups, giving them structure and a soft texture.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: This adds that rich chocolate flavor we all crave. Opt for a high-quality brand for the best taste.
Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! It balances the cocoa and enhances the overall flavor.
Brown sugar: This brings a hint of caramel flavor and moisture, making your brownie cups extra chewy.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together. You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Large eggs: Eggs provide moisture and help the brownie cups rise. They’re essential for that perfect texture.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor, making your brownies taste even more delicious.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the brownie cups rise, giving them a light and fluffy texture.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Mini marshmallows: These little gems add a delightful gooeyness and a touch of nostalgia. Feel free to use regular marshmallows if that’s what you have on hand.

For those who want to take it up a notch, consider adding chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey experience. You can find the exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Hot Cocoa Brownie Cups

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get to the fun part—making these Hot Cocoa Brownie Cups! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of delicious brownie cups in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even baking. If you skip this step, your brownie cups might end up unevenly cooked. Trust me, no one wants a gooey center when they’re expecting a fudgy treat!

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix them together until they’re well blended. Then, add in the eggs and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is where the magic begins, as the sugars and butter create a luscious base for your brownie cups!

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This is your dry mix, and it’s important to ensure there are no lumps. Whisking helps to aerate the flour and cocoa, which will give your brownie cups a light texture. Plus, it’s a great arm workout!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, it’s time to bring the wet and dry ingredients together. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mixture, stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix! A few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to tough brownie cups, and we want them to be soft and chewy.

Step 5: Fold in the Marshmallows

Next, fold in the mini marshmallows. This is where the fun happens! The marshmallows will melt slightly during baking, creating pockets of gooey goodness. They add a delightful texture and a nostalgic flavor that reminds me of cozy winter nights.

Step 6: Prepare the Muffin Tin

Grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or butter. This will help your brownie cups release easily after baking. Fill each cup with the brownie batter, about two-thirds full. This allows room for them to rise without overflowing. You can use a cookie scoop for even portions!

Step 7: Bake the Brownie Cups

Pop the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a brownie cup. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready! If it’s wet with batter, give them a few more minutes.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the brownie cups from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve them warm, topped with whipped cream or extra marshmallows for that ultimate hot cocoa experience!

Tips for Success

Use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s essential for even baking.
For a richer flavor, try using dark cocoa powder.
Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary.
Let the brownie cups cool completely for easier removal from the tin.

Equipment Needed

Muffin tin: Essential for shaping your brownie cups. A silicone muffin pan works great for easy removal.
Mixing bowls: Use a large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry. Any size will do!
Whisk: Perfect for combining dry ingredients. A fork can work in a pinch.
Spatula: Ideal for folding in marshmallows and scraping the bowl clean.
Toothpick: Handy for checking doneness. A skewer or knife can substitute.

Variations

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the soft brownie cups.
Minty Fresh: Incorporate a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist, perfect for the holiday season.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownie cups suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use coconut oil instead of butter.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a warm, spicy flavor that surprises the taste buds.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Hot Cocoa Brownie Cups with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Serve with a steaming cup of hot cocoa or coffee to enhance the chocolate experience.
Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a beautiful presentation.
For a festive touch, add crushed peppermint candies on top during the holidays.

FAQs about Hot Cocoa Brownie Cups

Can I make these Hot Cocoa Brownie Cups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before baking for the best results.

What can I use instead of mini marshmallows?

If you don’t have mini marshmallows, you can use regular marshmallows cut into smaller pieces. Alternatively, chocolate chips or even peanut butter chips can add a delicious twist!

How should I store leftover brownie cups?

Store your Hot Cocoa Brownie Cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them for up to a month.

Can I use a different type of cocoa powder?

Yes! You can use Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a milder flavor or dark cocoa powder for a richer taste. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the final color and flavor.

What’s the best way to serve these brownie cups?

For a delightful presentation, serve your brownie cups warm with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. They’re also fantastic with a scoop of ice cream on the side!

Final Thoughts

Making these Hot Cocoa Brownie Cups is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories with loved ones. The aroma of chocolate wafting through your kitchen will bring smiles and warmth to your home. Each bite is a delightful combination of rich brownie and gooey marshmallow, reminiscent of cozy winter nights. Whether you’re enjoying them after a long day or sharing them at a gathering, these brownie cups are sure to bring joy. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delicious adventure—you won’t regret it!