There’s something about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house that instantly brings a sense of comfort and warmth. It’s like a cozy hug for your senses! Today, I want to share with you my absolute favorite treat: Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies. These delightful cookies combine the deep richness of cocoa with just a hint of spice from cinnamon and cayenne, creating a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. They’re perfect for warming up chilly evenings or for sharing with family and friends during gatherings.

I remember the first time I made these cookies. I had just returned home from a long day, and the thought of baking was a soothing escape. As I mixed the ingredients, my kitchen filled with the sweet scent of chocolate and spice, making my heart feel a little lighter. When I took that first bite—oh wow! The soft, chewy texture and the warm kick from the spices made it feel like a little celebration in my mouth. Every bite brings back that comforting memory, and I know you’ll fall in love with them just like I did!

Ingredients List

Let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to create these scrumptious Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies. I promise, it’s a simple list, and you might even have some of these at home already!

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: This is the base of your cookies, giving them structure and a nice chewy texture.
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: This adds that rich chocolate flavor we all love. Make sure it’s unsweetened for the best results!
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: This helps the cookies rise perfectly, giving them that lovely softness.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the sweet and spicy flavors.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: This warm spice is a must for that classic hot chocolate taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Trust me, it adds just the right amount of warmth without overpowering the cookie.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Butter is the key to rich, flavorful cookies. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: This sweetens your cookies and helps them get that delightful golden color.
• 1 large egg: The egg binds everything together, making your cookies nice and moist.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds a lovely depth of flavor to the mix.
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips: We can’t forget the chocolate chips! They provide little pockets of melty goodness in every bite.

Feel free to get creative! If you need a gluten-free option, swapping in almond flour works beautifully. And for those who prefer a dairy-free treat, coconut oil can be used instead of butter. Adjust the cayenne to suit your taste—less for a milder cookie or a bit more for an extra kick!

How to Prepare Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the delightful process of making these Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies! Don’t worry; I’ll guide you through each step with care and clarity. These cookies come together quickly, so let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

First things first, we need to preheat our oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.

While the oven is warming up, grab a mixing bowl. In this bowl, combine the dry ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Whisk them together gently until they’re well mixed. This helps to evenly distribute the flavors and ensures a uniform texture for your cookies.

Now, let’s move on to the wet ingredients! In another bowl, cream together 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar using a hand mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon. Beat them until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the butter, helping your cookies rise beautifully.

Next, add in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until everything is combined well. You’ll notice a lovely aroma starting to fill your kitchen!

Now, it’s time to bring our dry and wet ingredients together. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until combined. You don’t want to overmix here; just make sure everything is nicely blended. Then, fold in 1/2 cup chocolate chips for those gooey pockets of chocolate we all adore.

Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking.

Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are firm but the centers still look a little soft. That’s the secret to chewy cookies!

Once they’re done, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This helps them set up a bit before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. And there you have it – delicious Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies ready to enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies are truly something special, and here’s why you’ll adore making them:

• Unique Flavor: The combination of rich cocoa, warm cinnamon, and a touch of cayenne creates a delightful twist on classic chocolate cookies, making each bite a little adventure for your taste buds.
• Quick and Easy: With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a batch of cookies ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick treat!
• Comforting Treat: These cookies not only taste amazing but also fill your home with the warm, inviting aromas that remind you of cozy gatherings and sweet memories.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste or swap in different ingredients to cater to dietary needs, making them perfect for everyone!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies turn out perfectly, here are some handy tips that I’ve learned along the way. These little tricks can make a big difference!

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale if you have one, especially for flour and cocoa powder, as too much can lead to dry cookies. If you’re using measuring cups, spoon the flour into the cup and level it off with a knife.
• Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature. If you’re short on time, cut it into small pieces and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This helps it cream better with the sugar.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. You want them to be tender and chewy, not dense!
• Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have the time, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can help prevent spreading and enhance the flavors. Just cover it in plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to play with the cayenne pepper. If you prefer milder cookies, start with just a pinch. You can always add more spice to the next batch once you find your perfect balance!

With these tips, I know your cookies will be a hit! Happy baking!

Nutritional Information

As with all homemade treats, the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose to use. However, here’s a general idea of what you can expect for a typical serving size of one Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookie:

• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

These cookies are not only a delightful treat but can also fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Happy baking and enjoy every delicious bite!

FAQ Section

I’ve gathered some common questions about these delightful Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies to help you out. Let’s dive in!

Common Questions

Q1: Can I adjust the baking time for different ovens?
Absolutely! Every oven is a bit different, so I recommend checking the cookies a minute or two before the suggested baking time of 10-12 minutes. Look for the edges to be firm and the centers soft; that’s the sweet spot for chewy cookies!

Q2: How should I store leftover cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay delicious for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and then put them in a freezer bag. They’ll last for up to three months.

Q3: Can I substitute the cocoa powder?
While unsweetened cocoa powder is essential for that rich chocolate flavor, you could use Dutch-processed cocoa for a different taste. Just keep in mind that it may alter the cookie’s final color and flavor slightly.

Q4: What if I don’t have cayenne pepper?
If you’re out of cayenne, you can use a pinch of black pepper for a similar warmth, or simply skip it altogether if you prefer less spice. The cookies will still be delicious!

Q5: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Just remember that baking times might vary slightly, so keep an eye on them as they bake.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve baked your delicious Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies, it’s important to store them properly to keep them fresh and tasty. To do this, place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delightful for about a week, making them perfect for enjoying with your afternoon tea or coffee.

If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them! Just wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature.

For a warm treat, you can reheat the cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will soften them up nicely and bring back that fresh-baked feel. Enjoy your cozy, chocolatey moments!

For more information on the health benefits of cocoa, you can check out this Healthline article.

Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies: 7 Comforting Bites to Enjoy

---

• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Delicious Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies with a hint of spice.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until smooth.
4. Add the egg and vanilla to the butter mixture. Mix well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until combined.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips.
7. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are firm.
9. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

• For gluten-free, use almond flour.
• Substitute coconut oil for butter for a dairy-free option.
• Adjust cayenne pepper for less heat if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies, cookie recipe, chocolate cookies