Hot Chocolate Brownies with Marshmallow Frosting Recipe

If you’re a chocolate lover who’s been searching for a dessert that combines rich, fudgy brownies with a dreamy, cloud-like frosting, I have just the thing. This Hot Chocolate Brownies with Marshmallow Frosting Recipe is truly a fan-freaking-tastic treat—you’ll get the cozy warmth of hot cocoa in every bite topped with a marshmallow frosting that feels like a hug. When I first tried this, I was amazed at how the coffee granules deepened the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee at all. Trust me, you’re going to want to keep this recipe close, especially as chilly nights roll in.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for classic pantry staples with a couple of special touches that make all the difference. I recommend using good-quality semisweet chocolate and fresh marshmallow fluff for the best results. Let’s dive into the details!

• Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted gives you control over the saltiness and helps the chocolate flavor shine.
• Semisweet Chocolate: Chopped chocolate melts beautifully and brings deep cocoa richness—avoid chips for a smoother texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Classic sweetener that balances the bitterness of cocoa.
• Large Eggs: Eggs bind everything together and add moisture.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the chocolate notes.
• Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder intensifies the chocolate depth—don’t skip it.
• Instant Coffee Granules: Just a teaspoon amps up the chocolate flavor without making the brownies taste like coffee.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure; be sure to measure correctly to avoid a cakey or dense brownie.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
• Marshmallow Fluff: This creamy sweet spread gives the frosting its irresistibly fluffy texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting while keeping it light.

Variations

While I adore the classic combination in this Hot Chocolate Brownies with Marshmallow Frosting Recipe, I’ve had fun tweaking it here and there over time. Feel free to make this yours—baking is all about personal touches!

• Nutty Addition: One time I tossed in chopped walnuts for some crunch, and my family went crazy for the texture contrast.
• Extra Chocolaty: Adding a handful of chocolate chips into the batter before baking ups the chocolate factor for serious chocoholics.
• Gluten-Free Swap: I’ve swapped the flour with gluten-free all-purpose blend with great success—just watch the baking time closely.
• Holiday Twist: For festive occasions, sprinkling crushed peppermint candies on top of the frosting adds a fun minty zing.

How to Make Hot Chocolate Brownies with Marshmallow Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Ingredients

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan. I always line mine with parchment paper, letting some overhang on the sides—it makes lifting out the brownies a breeze once they’ve cooled. Having all your ingredients measured out and ready to go makes the whole process feel stress-free, trust me on that!

Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate

Gently melt the unsalted butter and semisweet chocolate together using a microwave in 20-second bursts or over a double boiler. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Once smooth, let the mixture cool slightly—this helps when you add the eggs so they don’t scramble. I discovered this cooling step the hard way after an early batch got weird lumps.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Into your melted chocolate, whisk in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything’s nicely combined. The batter will be glossy and rich-looking at this point, which is the perfect sign.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients Carefully

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, instant coffee granules, flour, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mix into the wet chocolate batter with a spatula—don’t overmix or your brownies might turn out cakey instead of fudgy. A few streaks of flour here and there are totally fine.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Pop it into the oven for 20-25 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it starting at 20 minutes—insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean. I used to bake mine too long, and they lost that fudgy vibe.

Step 6: Whip Up the Marshmallow Frosting

While those brownies cool completely (don’t rush this—it helps the frosting spread easily), beat together the marshmallow fluff, softened butter, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until creamy. Then gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until it’s fluffy and light. This frosting is seriously addictive.

Step 7: Frost, Garnish, and Serve

Once the brownies have fully cooled, spread the marshmallow frosting on top. I love using a spatula to create little peaks and swirls that look inviting and cozy. A light dusting of cocoa powder over the frosting is a final touch that feels just right. Slice into squares and get ready for compliments!

How to Serve Hot Chocolate Brownies with Marshmallow Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

I love dusting a little cocoa powder over the frosting—it adds an elegant, slightly bitter contrast to balance the sweetness. Sometimes I sprinkle mini chocolate chips or crushed peppermint for a festive vibe. For an extra-special touch, a few toasted marshmallows on top look amazing and taste like a campfire treat!

Side Dishes

If you want to serve these brownies as part of a dessert spread, they pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. I also like offering a hot cup of creamy coffee or a mug of spiced chai alongside—the warmth complements the chocolate perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For birthdays or holiday parties, I sometimes cut the brownies into bite-sized squares and serve them on a tiered platter with fresh berries and mint leaves. Another time, I layered the brownies and frosting in clear jars to create adorable dessert parfaits that wowed my guests. Presentation can be simple but thoughtful and still make a big impact.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re keeping them longer, refrigeration helps maintain freshness but can slightly firm the frosting, so bring them to room temp before serving for best texture.

Freezing

I’ve frozen unfrosted brownie squares wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then thawed and frosted them fresh. You can also freeze fully frosted brownies, but the marshmallow frosting may slightly change texture upon thawing. Either way, freezing is a great option to prep ahead.

Reheating

To enjoy leftover brownies warm, pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Don’t overheat or the marshmallow frosting can get too melty. I prefer warming them just enough to soften without losing that frosting fluffiness.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Hot Chocolate Brownies with Marshmallow Frosting Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s a perfect combination of indulgence and comfort. It’s the kind of dessert I love to make when I want to treat my family or impress guests without fuss. I hope you’ll give it a try and find the same joy in baking and sharing these fudgy, fluffy delights—if you do, I’m sure you’ll be making them again and again as much as I do!

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