Description
Warm, gooey, and absolutely irresistible, these Vanilla Hot Chocolate Molten Cookies are the ultimate cozy dessert for any occasion. Perfectly crisp on the outside with a fudgy, molten chocolate center, they capture all the comforting flavors of your favorite hot chocolate—infused with hints of vanilla and crowned with melty chocolate pools. Whether you’re hunting for quick breakfast sweets, easy dessert ideas, or something to elevate your holiday cookie tray, these indulgent cookies check every box. With their rich aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they’re bound to become your new favorite easy recipe.
Ingredients
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
Extra chocolate chunks (for molten centers)
Flaky sea salt for topping (optional)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, melt butter and 1 cup of chocolate chips over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated and brown sugars with the melted chocolate mixture.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients, stirring until just mixed.
- Fold in additional chocolate chunks for gooey centers.
- Chill dough for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop dough into balls (about 2 tbsp), pressing extra chocolate chunks into each center.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft.
- Cool on sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.