Hot Cocoa Cupcakes

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When chilly weather hits, nothing feels quite as comforting as a warm cup of hot cocoa. But imagine capturing that same cozy magic in a cupcake. These Hot Cocoa Cupcakes are everything you’d want on a crisp evening: moist, rich chocolate cake topped with a swirl of fluffy marshmallow frosting and just a hint of wintery warmth.

Each bite feels like wrapping yourself in a soft blanket, with chocolatey richness and nostalgic flavors coming together. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday party or just baking for fun, these cupcakes are a guaranteed hit for kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Hot Cocoa Cupcakes Recipe

These cupcakes bring the joy of hot chocolate to the dessert table in the most delightful way. The cake is deeply chocolatey, moist, and fluffy, while the marshmallow frosting is light and dreamy. You don’t need a box mix either—this is all homemade goodness with real cocoa and simple ingredients.

They also look as good as they taste, especially when topped with mini marshmallows or a drizzle of melted chocolate. Plus, they store well and make fantastic treats for winter gatherings, bake sales, or a snowy weekend project with the kids.

What Makes These Cupcakes Taste Like Hot Cocoa?

The secret is in using real unsweetened cocoa powder and hot milk. The cocoa gives that deep chocolate flavor while the hot milk activates it, much like how you’d make a cozy mug of cocoa. Pair that with a touch of vanilla and the whipped marshmallow topping, and you truly get the essence of a hot cocoa experience in cupcake form.

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Ingredients for the Hot Cocoa Cupcakes

To get the perfect hot cocoa flavor, you don’t need fancy ingredients. Just a handful of kitchen staples come together to create something truly magical.

All-purpose flour: This is the base of your cupcakes and gives them structure without making them too dense.

Unsweetened cocoa powder: This is what brings that authentic hot cocoa flavor to your cupcakes. Make sure it’s high-quality!

Baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise perfectly and keeps them soft.

Salt: Just a pinch enhances the chocolate and balances the sweetness.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and keeps the texture just right.

Eggs: Add richness and help bind everything together.

Whole milk (heated): Warm milk helps bloom the cocoa powder, giving you a more intense chocolate taste.

Vegetable oil: Keeps the cupcakes moist without altering the flavor.

Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet background note that complements the chocolate beautifully.

Mini marshmallows or marshmallow fluff: Essential for that true hot cocoa vibe on top!

How To Make the Hot Cocoa Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a cupcake tin with paper liners. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk the sugar and eggs until light and slightly foamy. Add in the heated milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well to combine.

Step 3: Combine and Pour

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking gently until the batter is smooth and lump-free.

Step 4: Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.

Step 5: Top It Off

Frost with marshmallow fluff or your favorite marshmallow buttercream. Add mini marshmallows or a chocolate drizzle for extra flair.

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Serving and Storing Hot Cocoa Cupcakes

These Hot Cocoa Cupcakes are perfect for serving warm right after frosting if you want that extra gooey marshmallow topping. If you’re making them ahead for a party or potluck, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5.

This recipe yields 12 standard cupcakes, making it ideal for small gatherings or family treats. They also freeze well without the frosting, so feel free to bake in advance and decorate when you’re ready to serve.

What to Serve With Hot Cocoa Cupcakes?

Hot Chocolate (of course!)

Double down on the theme with a rich mug of hot chocolate, topped with whipped cream.

Peppermint Tea

The refreshing mint flavor cuts through the sweetness of the cupcake and adds a holiday twist.

Fresh Strawberries

A fruity, slightly tart companion that balances out the richness of the cupcakes.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Pair warm cupcakes with a scoop of cold ice cream for that hot-and-cold dessert duo.

Chocolate-Covered Pretzels

The saltiness of pretzels complements the sweet marshmallow and chocolate flavors.

Whipped Cream or Cool Whip

A soft dollop on top adds elegance and makes them look like tiny cocoa mugs.

Espresso or Coffee

Especially if you’re serving these to adults, a bold coffee makes a lovely match.

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Want More Dessert Ideas?

If you love these Hot Cocoa Cupcakes, you’ll enjoy these other rich and comforting treats too:

• Try the Ooey Gooey Bars for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• For something fruity and soft, these Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons are worth a bite.
• Looking for a kid-friendly twist? The Bunny Butt Oreo Balls bring joy to any party.
• Cozy up with a slice of Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler on the side.
• Craving something buttery and classic? The Butter Pecan Pound Cake never fails.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go for a homemade marshmallow frosting or use fluff from the jar? Maybe added crushed candy canes on top?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too – let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and cozy desserts on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next kitchen favorite!

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