Hot Cocoa Cookie Stack

Featured in: Simple Sweet Treats

This dessert features soft chocolate cookies layered meticulously with fluffy marshmallow frosting, forming stacks that resemble a cozy mug of hot cocoa. The cookies are rich with cocoa powder and baked to a tender finish. The creamy marshmallow frosting adds light sweetness and a smooth texture that complements the dense cookie layers. Mini marshmallows and melted chocolate drizzle enhance both the look and flavor, making for an indulgent treat perfect for chilly days or festive occasions.

Updated on Wed, 10 Dec 2025 10:56:00 GMT
Decadent hot cocoa mug cookie stack, layered with fluffy frosting, perfect for a cozy dessert. Pin this
Decadent hot cocoa mug cookie stack, layered with fluffy frosting, perfect for a cozy dessert. | terrawhisk.com

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

This treat has become a holiday favorite in my family, bringing smiles and warmth to every gathering.

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 10 to 12 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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This dessert makes every family gathering feel festive and full of joy.

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

A stack of Hot Cocoa Mug Cookie, filled with marshmallow creme and drizzled chocolate creating a dessert that comforts. Pin this
A stack of Hot Cocoa Mug Cookie, filled with marshmallow creme and drizzled chocolate creating a dessert that comforts. | terrawhisk.com

Enjoy this sweet treat with loved ones for a memorable cozy moment.

Recipe FAQs

What makes the cookies soft yet sturdy for stacking?

The combination of baking soda and the right balance of butter and sugars ensures a tender but firm cookie that holds its shape well.

Can I prepare the marshmallow frosting in advance?

Yes, the marshmallow frosting can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator; bring it to room temperature and re-whip before use.

How do the mini candy canes add to the dessert?

The mini candy canes act as handles, enhancing the mug-like appearance and adding a subtle peppermint touch.

Is it possible to substitute any ingredients for dietary needs?

Butter can be replaced with margarine or vegan alternatives, and dairy-free marshmallow crème may be used, but texture and flavor might vary slightly.

What is the best way to store the cookie stacks?

Store the stacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate to maintain freshness longer.

Hot Cocoa Cookie Stack

Layers of chocolate cookies paired with fluffy marshmallow frosting for a decadent treat.

Time to prep
30 min
Time to cook
12 min
Overall time
42 min
Created by Naomi Carter


Skill level Medium

Cuisine American

Makes 8 Portions

Dietary notes Vegetarian-friendly

What you 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 7 ounces marshmallow crème
04 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 Pinch of salt

Decorations

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

Directions

Step 01

Preheat oven and prepare baking sheets: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 02

Combine dry ingredients: Whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt together in a medium bowl.

Step 03

Cream butter and sugars: Beat butter with granulated and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about two minutes.

Step 04

Add egg and vanilla: Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.

Step 05

Combine dry ingredients and milk: Alternately mix in half the dry ingredients, then milk, followed by the remaining dry ingredients into the butter mixture.

Step 06

Form cookie rounds and bake: Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto prepared sheets and flatten to approximately 2 inches in diameter. Bake 10–12 minutes until set but soft. Allow to cool completely.

Step 07

Prepare marshmallow frosting: Beat butter until creamy, gradually add powdered sugar, then incorporate marshmallow crème, vanilla, and salt until fluffy.

Step 08

Assemble cookie stacks: Spread a generous layer of frosting on a cookie, top with another cookie, repeat to build stacks of three cookies each.

Step 09

Decorate and finish: Spread frosting on the top cookie, sprinkle mini marshmallows, drizzle melted chocolate, and optionally press a mini candy cane on the side as a handle.

Step 10

Chill before serving: Refrigerate stacks for ten minutes to set frosting before serving.

Tools needed

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

Allergens

Review ingredients for allergies and speak with your healthcare provider if you're unsure.
  • Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy.
  • May contain soy from chocolate chips or marshmallow crème.
  • Verify labels if allergy sensitivity exists.

Nutrition details (each serving)

This info is a reference and doesn’t replace advice from your doctor.
  • Energy: 410
  • Lipids: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 56 g
  • Proteins: 3 g