Who can resist the gooey magic of chocolate chips and marshmallows? This iconic duo brings a delightful mix of sweetness and texture to any treat, making it a favorite for desserts and snacks alike. From campfire classics to oven-baked wonders, these two ingredients create a comforting nostalgia in every bite.
We love how versatile chocolate chip and marshmallow recipes can be. Whether you’re crafting chewy cookies, decadent bars, or a twist on s’mores, there’s always room to get creative. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and spark joy.
Ingredients
To make these delightful Chocolate Chip and Marshmallow recipes, we’ll layer a soft cookie base, gooey marshmallows, and a rich chocolate topping. Gather the following ingredients for each component to create this ultimate treat.
For The Cookie Dough Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, measured correctly
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
For The Marshmallow Layer
- 4 cups mini marshmallows, evenly spread over
For The Chocolate Topping
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for a glossy finish)
Tools And Equipment
To achieve the perfect Chocolate Chip and Marshmallow recipes, we need to ensure we have the right Tools And Equipment. A well-prepared kitchen setup not only saves time but also ensures consistent results. Here’s what we recommend having on hand:
Essential Tools
- Mixing Bowls: One large bowl for wet ingredients and one medium bowl for dry ingredients. Opt for durable glass or stainless steel.
- Electric Mixer: A hand or stand mixer is essential for creaming the butter and sugars together until light and fluffy.
- Rubber Spatula: Use this to scrape down the sides of bowls and evenly fold in the chocolate chips and marshmallows.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key when working with baking ratios.
- Baking Sheets: Ensure they are non-stick or lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Parchment Paper or Silpat Liner: Prevents sticking and promotes even baking.
- Cooling Rack: Allows baked goods to cool quickly and evenly without trapping residual heat.
- Knife or Pizza Cutter: Perfect for slicing any marshmallow-topped bars into clean, sharp squares.
Optional but Helpful
- Cookie Scoop: For uniform cookie sizes and hassle-free dough handling.
- Offset Spatula: Helps spread marshmallow layers or melted chocolate smoothly.
- Double Boiler: Use this to gently melt chocolate without scorching.
- Pastry Brush: Ideal for applying melted chocolate as a thin layer.
Tools Chart for Easy Reference
| Tool Name | Purpose | Remark |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Wet and dry ingredient mixing | 1 large, 1 medium |
| Electric Mixer | Creaming and mixture preparation | Hand or stand mixer |
| Rubber Spatula | Scraping bowls and folding | Heat-resistant preferred |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Ingredient measuring | Exact, level measurements |
| Baking Sheets | Baking cookies and bars | Non-stick or parchment lined |
| Parchment/Silpat | Non-stick surface for baking | Reusable options available |
| Cooling Rack | Cooling baked goods effectively | Wireframe preferred |
| Knife/Pizza Cutter | Cutting clean marshmallow bars | Sharp-edged tool |
Tips for Tool Maintenance
- Always clean tools immediately after use. Marshmallows and melted chocolate can harden, making cleanup harder.
- Opt for high-quality, durable materials to handle frequent baking sessions. Tools made of stainless steel or silicone are excellent choices.
- Before baking, double-check that your tools are dry, as moisture can affect ingredient consistency—particularly with marshmallows and chocolate.
With these tools and equipment ready, we’re one step closer to crafting the most delightful chocolate chip and marshmallow treats.
Directions
Creating the perfect Chocolate Chip and Marshmallow Treats is a joyous process when broken down into simple steps. Follow this guide to layer decadent flavors and textures seamlessly.
Prep
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a Silpat liner. This prevents the treats from sticking and ensures even baking.
- Assemble all the ingredients and tools mentioned earlier to keep everything within arm’s reach.
- Measure the ingredients with precision using standard measuring cups and spoons. Proper measurement keeps the dough consistency perfect.
Make The Cookie Dough Base
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and mix thoroughly.
- Combine dry ingredients in a separate bowl. Gradually sift together:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Slowly incorporate the dry mixture into the wet until a smooth dough forms. Fold in 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips using a rubber spatula.
Pro Tip: Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes for a firmer texture that holds its shape while baking.
Add The Marshmallow Layer
- After prepping the dough, drop cookie-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheet using a spoon or cookie scoop.
- Flatten each dough ball slightly. Carefully press 3–4 mini marshmallows into the center of each cookie.
- Cover the marshmallows with a small piece of dough to encapsulate them, ensuring no marshmallow peeks out to avoid unwanted melting.
Optional Step: Lightly press extra chocolate chips into the tops of the dough balls for a decorative finish.
Top With Melted Chocolate
- Once the cookies are baked and cooled on a rack, prepare the chocolate drizzle.
- Melt 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips with 1 teaspoon vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
- Use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle the melted chocolate over the cookies for a glossy, indulgent finish. Allow the chocolate to set completely before serving.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s dive into crafting these Chocolate Chip and Marshmallow Treats. Follow these step-by-step directions to achieve the perfect balance of chewy cookies, gooey marshmallows, and rich chocolate.
Baking The Cookie Base
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 350°F and line the baking sheets with parchment paper or a Silpat liner to prevent sticking.
- Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to combine 1 cup unsalted butter (softened), 1 cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup light brown sugar. Beat until the mixture is creamy and light.
- Incorporate wet ingredients: Add 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat on medium speed until fully combined.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until no streaks of flour remain.
- Fold in the chocolate chips: Gently fold in 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips using a rubber spatula for even distribution.
- Chill the dough: For best results, chill the cookie dough for 20–30 minutes to help the cookies retain their shape while baking.
- Scoop and bake: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop evenly-sized dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Bake: Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Setting The Marshmallow And Chocolate Layers
- Prepare the marshmallow topping: Once the cookies have slightly cooled, press mini marshmallows (about 3–4 per cookie) into the tops of each cookie. Arrange them evenly for balanced flavor.
- Melt the chocolate layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Alternatively, use a double boiler to melt the chocolate gently.
- Drizzle the chocolate: Using a spoon, drizzle the melted chocolate over the marshmallow-topped cookies. For an elegant touch, try zig-zagging the drizzle back and forth.
- Set the layers: Allow the cookies to sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes or chill them in the fridge for 10 minutes to let the chocolate firm up.
| Step | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Baking the cookies | 8–10 minutes |
| Cooling the cookies before topping | 5 minutes |
| Adding marshmallows and chocolate | ~5–10 minutes |
| Setting the chocolate | 15–20 minutes |
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing chocolate chip and marshmallow treats ahead of time not only saves time but also enhances convenience for busy schedules or planned events. Follow these detailed make-ahead instructions for stress-free baking.
Preparing the Cookie Dough
- Mix and Chill: After preparing the cookie dough, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 48 hours. Chilling helps the flavors meld and ensures thicker, chewier cookies. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the dough to an airtight container.
- Portion and Freeze: Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough into even-sized balls. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer, then freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date for tracking freshness.
| Storage Method | Timeframe for Best Quality |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated dough | Up to 48 hours |
| Frozen portioned cookie dough | Up to 3 months |
Prepping the Marshmallow Layer
- Marshmallows in Advance: If desired, prepare by lightly coating mini marshmallows with a dusting of powdered sugar to prevent stickiness. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Assembling and Baking Later
- Thawing Dough, If Needed: For frozen dough balls, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow them to thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before baking. This helps ensure even baking.
- Fresh Marshmallow Addition: Press mini marshmallows into the dough just before baking to maintain freshness and prevent them from melting too soon.
Storing Baked Treats
- Cooling and Packaging: Allow the baked treats to cool completely on a wire rack. Place them in airtight containers, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Extended Storage: For longer storage, freeze the fully baked treats in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor. Thaw at room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving.
| Storage Method | Timeframe for Best Quality |
|---|---|
| Airtight container at room temp | Up to 5 days |
| Fully baked treats, frozen | Up to 2 months |
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying Chocolate Chip and Marshmallow Treats, the possibilities are endless. Here are some creative and delectable ways to serve and enhance these irresistible delights:
1. Classic Warm Chewy Perfection
Serve the treats slightly warm for the ultimate gooey experience. After cooling on a wire rack, pop them in the microwave for 5–10 seconds to soften the marshmallow and chocolate layers. Pair with a tall glass of chilled milk for a nostalgic treat.
2. Upgrade Your Ice Cream Game
Crumble these chocolate chip and marshmallow masterpieces over vanilla or chocolate ice cream to create a sundae with layers of chewy, crispy, and creamy textures. Finish with a drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel sauce for added indulgence.
3. S’mores-Inspired Dessert Boards
Elevate your dessert presentation by adding these treats to a s’mores-themed grazing board. Arrange alongside graham crackers, fresh berries, dipping sauces, assorted marshmallows, and chocolate squares. This setup is perfect for parties or cozy nights at home.
4. Festive Party Ideas
Transform them into crowd-pleasing dessert bites by cutting the treats into small squares or rounds. Insert decorative toothpicks or skewers for a convenient party presentation. Sprinkle colorful edible glitter or powdered sugar for holidays or special events.
5. Breakfast Boost
Who says treats are only for dessert? Chop the Chocolate Chip and Marshmallow Treats into tiny bits and sprinkle them over oatmeal, pancakes, or waffles for a sweet breakfast upgrade. It’s an easy way to elevate a mundane morning.
6. Gift-Worthy Presentation
Wrap individually in decorative parchment paper or place them in themed treat boxes tied with a twine bow. Adding a handwritten note or recipe card can make them the perfect homemade gift for birthdays, holidays, or housewarming events.
| Suggestion | Serving Tip |
|---|---|
| Classic Warm Chewy Perfection | Reheat for 5–10 seconds and serve with chilled milk |
| Ice Cream Sundae Topper | Crumble over ice cream and drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce |
| S’mores-Inspired Dessert Boards | Arrange with graham crackers, berries, and chocolate squares |
| Festive Party Dessert Bites | Cut small, use toothpicks, and decorate with glitter or powdered sugar |
| Morning Breakfast Boost | Add treat bits to oatmeal, pancakes, or waffles |
| Gift-Worthy Presentation | Wrap treats individually in parchment paper or themed treat boxes |
Pro Tip:
For the ultimate crowd-pleasing serving, pair these treats with hot cocoa or coffee. The marshmallow layer melts slightly in warmth, complementing rich beverages with its delicate sweetness.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is essential to keep our Chocolate Chip and Marshmallow Treats fresh, chewy, and delicious for days to come. Whether you’re storing leftover dough or baked treats, here’s a guide to maintain their quality:
Storing Cookie Dough
The cookie dough can be prepared ahead of time and stored effectively. Follow these steps for best results:
- Refrigerator Storage: Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer Storage: Portion the dough into individual cookie-sized balls, then freeze them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once firm, transfer the portions to a freezer-friendly zip-top bag. Label the bag with the date for easy tracking. Frozen dough can be stored for up to 3 months.
Pro Tip: Let the frozen dough sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking for more even results.
Storing Baked Treats
To preserve the chewy texture and rich flavor of the baked treats, use these methods:
- Room Temperature: Place the treats in a single layer inside an airtight container. If stacking layers, use parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. Store at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerator: For slightly extended freshness, store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 7 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
- Freezer: Wrap individual treats in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag. They will remain fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Table: Quick Reference for Storage Durations
| Type | Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Cookie Dough | Refrigerator | Up to 3 days |
| Cookie Dough | Freezer | Up to 3 months |
| Baked Treats – Room Temp | Airtight Container | Up to 5 days |
| Baked Treats – Fridge | Airtight Container | Up to 7 days |
| Baked Treats – Freezer | Wrapped & in Freezer Bag | Up to 2 months |
Preventing Moisture Loss
To prevent baked treats from drying out, here’s an extra tip:
- Slide a piece of fresh bread into the container with the cookies. This helps retain moisture and keeps the treats soft and delectable.
Reheating Tips
When removing treats from storage, warm them slightly to revive the gooey texture of chocolate and marshmallows:
- Microwave each treat for 5-10 seconds on medium heat. Avoid overheating to prevent melting the marshmallow layer.
- Place frozen treats in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes to refresh their texture and bring back that fresh-baked flavor.
Conclusion
Chocolate chips and marshmallows truly bring a magical touch to homemade treats. Their versatility and comforting flavors make them a favorite for any occasion, whether you’re baking for a celebration or indulging in a quiet moment at home. With the right tools, ingredients, and a little creativity, these recipes can transform simple desserts into unforgettable delights.
Let’s embrace the joy of baking and share these delicious creations with loved ones. From chewy cookies to decadent bars, the possibilities are endless. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of crafting something so irresistibly sweet and sharing it with those who matter most.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes chocolate chips and marshmallows a perfect combination?
The combination of chocolate chips and marshmallows offers a balance of rich, melty chocolate and gooey, fluffy marshmallows. Together, they bring both texture and flavor to desserts, making them nostalgic and comforting for all occasions.
What are the essential ingredients for Chocolate Chip and Marshmallow Treats?
The essentials include unsalted butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, semi-sweet chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and vegetable oil for finishing.
What tools do I need to make Chocolate Chip and Marshmallow Treats?
Basic tools include mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, baking sheets, parchment paper, a rubber spatula, and a cooling rack. Optional tools like cookie scoops and offset spatulas can streamline the process.
How can I keep my treats fresh after baking?
Store baked treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Refrigeration can extend their freshness, while placing them in the freezer ensures long-term storage.
Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes, cookie dough can be mixed, chilled, and portioned in advance. Freeze it for up to 3 months and bake as needed for fresh treats.
What’s the best way to melt chocolate for the topping?
Use a double boiler or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each burst, to avoid overheating. Adding a small amount of vegetable oil gives the melted chocolate a glossy, smooth finish.
How do I ensure my cookies retain their shape while baking?
Chilling the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
What are some creative ways to serve Chocolate Chip and Marshmallow Treats?
Serve warm with milk, crumble over ice cream, incorporate into s’mores boards, or use as a topping for oatmeal or pancakes. Wrap them decoratively for special occasions or gift-giving.
Can these treats be customized for holidays or events?
Absolutely! You can cut them into festive shapes, add food-safe decorations, or use seasonally themed packaging to make them perfect for any celebration.
How can I revive stored treats to make them gooey again?
Reheat treats in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their gooey and chewy texture. Be cautious not to overheat, as it may dry them out.