Name: Decadent Hot Chocolate Brownies with Fluffy Marshmallow Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend); 2 cups granulated sugar (or brown sugar for richer flavor); 4 large eggs (or applesauce/flaxseed meal for vegan); ½ cup butter (melted, or use coconut oil); 1 teaspoon salt; 2 cups mini marshmallows (or regular marshmallows halved); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Every chilly evening calls for something warm and sweet, and these Hot Chocolate Brownies with Marshmallow Frosting are just the answer to that craving. As I mixed the ingredients, the rich aroma of cocoa filled my kitchen, instantly taking me back to those cozy winter nights spent curled up with a mug of hot cocoa. Fudgy and laden with creamy marshmallow goodness, these brownies are not only a delightful holiday treat but also a failsafe way to impress your friends and family. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to whip up! Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply satisfying your own sweet tooth, these brownies can be prepped in a snap and enjoyed at any occasion. Ready to immerse yourself in this chocolatey goodness? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are These Brownies So Irresistible?

Decadence in Every Bite: These hot chocolate brownies deliver a rich, fudgy experience that chocolate lovers yearn for.
Fluffy Marshmallow Topping: The airy marshmallow frosting perfectly complements the dense brownie, creating a dreamy texture combination.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these brownies can be made in under an hour.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings, they are sure to impress friends and family alike!
Versatile Delight: Add your favorite toppings like nuts or chocolate syrup to personalize this dessert to your taste.
Memory Lane: They evoke nostalgia, reminiscent of warm cups of cocoa and cherished winter memories. For more delicious dessert ideas, check out our chocolate dessert recipes.

Hot Chocolate Brownies Ingredients

For the Brownies

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Provides the deep chocolate flavor that makes these hot chocolate brownies so indulgent.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the brownies; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the brownies; feel free to use brown sugar for a richer flavor and added moisture.
Eggs – Binds all ingredients together and adds moisture; applesauce or flaxseed meal works as a vegan substitute.
Butter – Adds a luscious richness; coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free option without sacrificing flavor.
Salt – Essential for balancing the sweetness and enhancing all the flavors in the brownies.

For the Frosting

Mini Marshmallows – These create the sweet, gooey topping; use regular marshmallows halved for a delightful twist.
Vanilla Extract – Boosts the overall flavor of both the brownies and the frosting for a warm, inviting taste.

Get ready to indulge in the rich, chocolaty goodness of these Hot Chocolate Brownies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Chocolate Brownies

Step 1: Prep the Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, combine 4 large eggs, ½ cup of melted butter, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined, ensuring there are no dry spots—this will create the fudgy base for your hot chocolate brownies.

Step 2: Bake the Brownies
Pour the thick brownie batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the brownies for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs. Keep an eye on the browning edges; they should look set but not overly dry, which is crucial for that delightful fudgy texture.

Step 3: Cool the Brownies
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then transfer the pan to a wire rack and allow the brownies to cool completely—this is important for avoiding melting the marshmallow frosting later on. When they’re cooled, the brownies will firm up, making it easier to frost and slice.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, whip together 2 cups of marshmallow fluff with a splash of vanilla extract until it becomes light and fluffy. You can also add 2 tablespoons of softened butter for added richness if desired. Once your brownies are completely cooled, spread the marshmallow frosting generously over the top using a spatula, creating a fluffy layer that contrasts beautifully with the dense chocolate.

Step 5: Toast the Frosting (Optional)
For an extra touch, you can lightly toast the marshmallow frosting. Use a kitchen torch to char the surface gently until it reaches a golden brown color, about 10 to 15 seconds of toasting per area. Alternatively, place the frosted brownies under a low broiler for just a few seconds, keeping a close eye to prevent burning—this adds a delicious caramelized flavor to the frosting.

Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once the frosting is toasted or if you’re skipping that step, refrigerate the brownies for about an hour to firm up the frosting for cleaner cuts. After chilling, slice the brownies into 12 equal squares using a sharp knife. Serve these delightful hot chocolate brownies with a cup of cocoa or coffee for a truly cozy experience that brings joy to any gathering.

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Chocolate Brownies with Marshmallow Frosting are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients (cocoa powder, flour, sugar, and salt) together and refrigerating them. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the wet ingredients, mix, and bake as directed. Additionally, the marshmallow frosting can be made up to 3 days ahead; just ensure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain the quality of your brownies, let them cool completely before frosting. When it’s time to serve, frost the cooled brownies, refrigerate for a short while to set, and enjoy the same delightful flavor—all with minimal effort!

Hot Chocolate Brownies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore the delicious possibilities with these easy and delightful tweaks to your brownie recipe!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend as a direct substitute for all-purpose flour to enjoy these brownies without gluten.
Vegan: Replace the eggs with applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water, and use coconut oil instead of butter for a vegan-friendly treat. This way, everyone can indulge!
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for a delightful crunch that complements the fudgy texture perfectly. It’s a wonderful contrast!
Spiced Up: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the brownie mix for a warm, cozy flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Peppermint Twist: Incorporate a teaspoon of peppermint extract into the frosting for a refreshing minty kick that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the marshmallow frosting for an added layer of sweetness that takes these brownies to the next level.
Double Chocolate: Fold in chocolate chips or chunks into the brownie batter before baking for a gooey, chocolate-packed dessert. It’s an extra indulgence that chocolate lovers will adore!

By customizing these Hot Chocolate Brownies to your taste, you’re sure to create a dessert that everyone will love! For more irresistible dessert ideas, be sure to check out our collection of chocolate dessert recipes. Enjoy!

What to Serve with Hot Chocolate Brownies?

Every bite of these brownies melts in your mouth, so why not enhance the experience with some perfect pairings?

Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream brings a refreshing contrast to the rich brownies, cooling the heat of chocolate indulgence.
Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries add a burst of tartness that balances the sweetness, creating a delightful flavor explosion.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of homemade whipped cream gives an extra layer of sweetness and a creamy texture to complement the brownies.
Hot Cocoa: Serve with a piping hot cup of classic cocoa, possibly topped with whipped cream or marshmallows, for an ultimate cozy treat.
Coffee or Espresso: The rich bitterness of a well-brewed coffee contrasts beautifully with the sweet chocolate flavors, providing depth to your dessert experience.
Nutty Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce infused with a hint of sea salt over the brownies for a luxurious addition that amplifies their indulgence.

Experiment with these pairings to elevate your enjoyment of hot chocolate brownies, creating a delightful celebration of flavors!

How to Store and Freeze Hot Chocolate Brownies

Room Temperature: Store leftover brownies covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their fudgy texture.

Fridge: For longer freshness, keep brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week; this will slightly firm them up and extend their shelf life.

Freezer: Wrap slices of brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them again!

Reheating: To bring back their fudginess, warm the brownies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving. Enjoy that comforting chocolate experience all over again!

Expert Tips for Hot Chocolate Brownies

Cool First: Ensure your brownies cool completely before frosting to prevent the marshmallow from melting and losing its fluffy texture.
Non-Stick Solution: Grease your baking pan well and consider lining it with parchment paper for easy removal and cleaner slices of your decadent brownies.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough brownies instead of fudgy perfection.
Perfectly Toasted: If toasting the marshmallow frosting, keep a close eye on it to avoid burning; a kitchen torch is ideal for precise toasting.
Customize Toppings: Feel free to personalize your brownies by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or extra marshmallows. Just make sure these additions don’t overwhelm the main flavor of the hot chocolate brownies.

Hot Chocolate Brownies with Marshmallow Frosting Recipe FAQs

What type of cocoa powder is best for hot chocolate brownies?
For a deep chocolate flavor, I recommend using unsweetened cocoa powder. However, if you prefer a different taste, Dutch-processed cocoa can offer a smoother, less acidic option. Just keep in mind that each type of cocoa powder will deliver a slightly different flavor profile.

How should I store leftover hot chocolate brownies?
Store leftover brownies covered at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best texture. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to one week. They may firm up slightly in the fridge, but they’ll still be delicious!

Can I freeze hot chocolate brownies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap slices of the brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature, or warm them gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive that fudgy texture.

Why did my brownies turn out cakey instead of fudgy?
Cakey brownies often occur due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. To avoid this, mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined—it’s perfectly fine if a few dry spots remain! Additionally, ensure that you measure your flour correctly; using a kitchen scale can help ensure accuracy.

Are there any allergy concerns with this recipe?
Yes, this recipe contains gluten (from all-purpose flour) and dairy (from butter). For gluten-free brownies, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can replace the butter with coconut oil. Always check labels for potential allergens in marshmallows, as they can contain gelatin derived from animal products.