Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl Cookies Recipe

If you’re someone who craves rich chocolate treats with a playful, gooey twist, then this Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl Cookies Recipe is going to become your new favorite. I absolutely love how the melty marshmallows peek out in every bite, creating that perfect balance of chewy, chocolaty goodness and fluffy sweetness. When I first tried this recipe, it quickly became a hit with my family—and I promise, once you give it a go, you’ll see why!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Melty Marshmallow Swirls: The secret swirl technique makes these cookies irresistibly gooey inside.
  • Perfect Texture: Crispy edges with chewy centers, which is exactly how I like my cookies.
  • Easy to Make: If you can mix, scoop, and swirl, you’ve got this cookie recipe in the bag.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: My family goes crazy for these, especially during holiday cookie exchanges or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

I love the way these simple ingredients come together to create that brownie-like chocolate base combined with the soft, sweet marshmallow flavor. Plus, grabbing mini marshmallows dusted in powdered sugar helps prevent them from sticking and melting too quickly.

  • All-purpose flour: The sturdy base for your cookies—it’s important for structure here.
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives you that rich chocolate flavor; Dutch-processed works great if you have it.
  • Baking soda: Helps your cookies rise just enough for a soft center and crispy edges.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances chocolate flavor.
  • Butter (softened): I always leave it out to soften while I prep—it creams up nicely with the sugars this way.
  • Brown sugar (packed): Adds moisture and a slight caramel note.
  • Granulated sugar: Provides extra sweetness and crunch.
  • Large eggs (room temperature): Room temp eggs mix better and help the dough come together smoothly.
  • Vanilla extract: The finishing touch that amps up flavor.
  • Mini chocolate chips (optional): I love the extra chocolate bursts, but you can skip or swap with chunks.
  • Mini marshmallows (lightly dusted with powdered sugar): The star of the show for those gooey swirls.
  • Marshmallow fluff: That extra dollop on top adds both texture and sweetness.
  • Powdered sugar: For dusting the mini marshmallows so they blend perfectly into the dough.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I’m all about making recipes your own. Over time, I’ve experimented with a few tweaks to this Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl Cookies Recipe, and let me tell you, each variation brings something fun to the table.

  • Nutty Twist: Adding chopped toasted pecans or walnuts gives a delightful crunch—my kids loved the texture contrast!
  • Dairy-Free Option: Swap the butter for coconut oil and use dairy-free marshmallow fluff to keep the gooey magic intact without dairy.
  • Double Chocolate: Use white chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips for a swirl of colors and flavors—I found that super pretty for cookie trays.
  • Spiced Up: A pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper adds warmth and surprise if you want to jazz it up a bit.

How to Make Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Mix Your Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining baking sheets with parchment paper—trust me, this makes cleanup a breeze. While the oven warms, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Getting these fully combined ensures every cookie has that perfect chocolaty flavor with no odd clumps. It’s a simple step but sets you up for success.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat your softened butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture looks light and fluffy—which usually takes about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer. This is where the magic starts; creaming well gives your cookies that tender texture. Then add the eggs, one at a time, and vanilla extract, mixing just until combined. Don’t overdo it here, or the dough can get tough.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry, Then Add Chocolate Chips

Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. You want a thick, fudgy dough—don’t worry if it’s a little sticky. Fold in the mini chocolate chips now if you’re using them. This step always makes me smile because the dough smells soooo good!

Step 4: Dollop and Swirl the Marshmallow Magic

Scoop your dough into cookie-sized balls (about a tablespoon each works well), then press 4-5 mini marshmallows lightly coated with powdered sugar right into the center of each ball. Top each cookie with a small dollop of marshmallow fluff and use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the fluff and marshmallows into the dough surface. Here’s the trick I learned: don’t over-swirl, or the fluff melts away—just a few gentle swirls keep that pretty swirl effect visible after baking.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Place the cookies about 2 inches apart on your parchment-lined sheets and pop them into the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set and the marshmallows start to brown just a little. I always let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack—this helps them set perfectly without breaking apart. The first batch I made I rushed this step and lost some cookies in the transfer, so trust me on this one.

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Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl Cookies Recipe

  • Softened Butter is Key: Let your butter sit out for at least 15 minutes so it creams well—this changes the texture beautifully.
  • Dust Marshmallows with Powdered Sugar: This stops them from sticking and melting too fast, keeping those signature swirls intact after baking.
  • Don’t Overmix the Dough: Once you add flour, mix just until combined for tender cookies.
  • Cool on Baking Sheet First: Avoid cookie breakage by letting cookies sit on the pan a few minutes before moving to racks.

How to Serve Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl Cookies Recipe

Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I love sprinkling a tiny pinch of coarse sea salt on top of the marshmallow swirl before baking for a subtle salty-sweet contrast, but even without it these cookies shine. If you want a festive twist, a few red or green sugar crystals could add a cheerful sparkle at holiday time.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk or a warm cup of rich coffee. If you’re serving for a party, I also like to have fruit like fresh berries on the side to add a refreshing bite in between bites of decadence.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, arrange them on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra marshmallow fluff and chocolate chips for everyone to customize their cookie experience. Or, stack them like little towers tied with twine for an adorable homemade gift idea—my friends always appreciate the personal touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, layered between parchment paper to keep the marshmallow swirls from sticking. They stay soft and delicious for up to 4 days—though honestly, they rarely last that long around here!

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully. I flash freeze them on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When I want a treat, I simply thaw them at room temp for about 20 minutes. The texture stays just as wonderful as fresh.

Reheating

If you want to bring back that warm, gooey marshmallow magic, I pop a cookie or two in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before digging in. It melts the marshmallow fluff just enough without making the cookie too soft.

FAQs

  1. Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows in this recipe?

    You can, but mini marshmallows work best because they distribute evenly and melt at the right rate. If using larger marshmallows, you might want to chop them into smaller pieces and dust them lightly with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

  2. Do I have to use marshmallow fluff, or can I skip it?

    The marshmallow fluff adds a creamy swirl on top that’s pretty special, but if you don’t have any, your cookies will still be delicious with just the mini marshmallows inside the dough.

  3. How can I prevent the marshmallows from melting too much and losing shape?

    Dusting the mini marshmallows with powdered sugar and gently swirling the fluff helps them keep their shape when baking. Also, bake at the right temperature (350°F) and avoid over-swelling the dough around them.

  4. Can I substitute the mini chocolate chips with another type of chocolate?

    Absolutely! White chocolate chunks, chopped semi-sweet bars, or even peanut butter chips can add unique flavors, depending on what you enjoy. Just be sure to use bite-sized pieces for even melting.

  5. Is it okay to refrigerate the cookie dough before baking?

    Yes! Chilling the dough for about 15 minutes can actually make handling easier and help prevent spreading during baking, yielding thicker, chewier cookies.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl Cookies Recipe holds a real special place in my baking lineup—it’s my go-to whenever I want a homemade treat that feels cozy, indulgent, and a little bit magical. If you love a soft, chocolatey cookie with those irresistible marshmallow pockets, I highly recommend you try it yourself. You’ll enjoy the way each bite surprises you with gooey joy, and honestly, it’s fun enough to bake it again and again. So grab your apron, and let’s make some happiness that’s perfect for sharing (or not!).

Print
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Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl Cookies Recipe

Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl Cookies Recipe

4.6 from 64 reviews
  • Author: Hannah
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 11 minutes
  • Total Time: 46 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Delight in these rich Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl Cookies, combining a fudgy chocolate base with a gooey marshmallow swirl. Perfectly soft and chewy with bursts of melted marshmallow and chocolate chips, these cookies offer a unique twist on classic chocolate cookies—ideal for sharing or satisfying your sweet tooth!


Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Cookie Base:

  • 1 ¾ cups All-purpose flour
  • ½ cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon Baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon Salt
  • 1 cup Butter – Softened
  • ¾ cup Brown sugar – Packed
  • ½ cup Granulated sugar
  • 2 Large eggs – Room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
  • 1 cup Mini chocolate chips – Optional

Marshmallow Swirl:

  • 1 ½ cups Mini marshmallows – Lightly dusted with powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup Marshmallow fluff – Add a dollop on top of each cookie
  • 1 tablespoon Powdered sugar – For dusting mini marshmallows

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Let the butter and eggs sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to ensure even mixing.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until fully combined and uniform in texture.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, indicating proper aeration.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the room temperature eggs and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugars, mixing well to blend fully.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep cookies tender. Fold in the mini chocolate chips if using.
  6. Form Cookies with Marshmallow Swirl: Scoop dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart. Press 4 to 5 mini marshmallows into the center of each dough ball, then add a small dollop of marshmallow fluff on top. Use a toothpick to gently swirl the marshmallow fluff into the marshmallows, creating a marbled effect.
  7. Bake: Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
  8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Nutrition information is an approximation and can vary based on ingredient brands and measurements.
  • Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for the best texture and mixing results.
  • If you prefer chewier cookies, slightly underbake and allow to cool on the sheet.
  • Mini chocolate chips are optional but add extra chocolate bursts.
  • Use powdered sugar dusted on marshmallows to prevent them from sticking together before swirling.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 160
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 110mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg