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Hot Cocoa Brownie Cups: The Ultimate Cozy Winter Treat


  • Author: David Andersson
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 brownie cups 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Hot Cocoa Brownie Cups are miniature brownie bites that have been carefully shaped to resemble little mugs of hot cocoa. What makes them extra special is their filling — you can choose between a rich chocolate ganache or a fluffy marshmallow cream center, both of which add a delightful touch to each bite. The cups are topped with mini marshmallows and other fun toppings, giving them a festive look and a delicious taste.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Brownie Base:

  • ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter

  • 4 oz (115 g) semisweet chocolate, chopped (or chocolate chips)

  • ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar

  • ¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar

  • 2 large eggs, room temperature

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • ½ cup (65 g) all-purpose flour

  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

  • ¼ tsp salt

For the Filling (choose one or combine):

Option 1 – Chocolate Ganache

  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream

  • 4 oz (115 g) semisweet chocolate, chopped

Option 2 – Marshmallow Cream

  • 1 cup (about 100 g) mini marshmallows

  • OR 1 cup (110 g) marshmallow fluff

Toppings:

  • Mini marshmallows

  • Chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or sprinkles

  • Mini candy canes (for “handles,” optional but adorable)


Instructions

1. Make the Brownie Cups

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin (or use liners if preferred).

  3. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt butter and chocolate together in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

  4. Whisk in both sugars, then eggs and vanilla.

  5. Add flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir just until combined.

  6. Divide the batter evenly among muffin cups — about 2 tbsp each.


2. Bake & Shape

  • Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the centers are just set.

  • Remove from oven and let cool for 2–3 minutes, then use the back of a spoon (or a small shot glass) to gently press down the centers to form a cup shape.

  • Cool completely in the pan, then carefully remove.


3. Make the Filling

For Chocolate Ganache:

  1. Heat the heavy cream until steaming (don’t boil).

  2. Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit 2 minutes.

  3. Stir until smooth and glossy. Cool slightly before filling brownie cups.

For Marshmallow Cream:

  • Spoon marshmallow fluff directly into cups, or place mini marshmallows on top of ganache and broil for 30–45 seconds until toasted.


4. Decorate

  • Top each cup with mini marshmallows and a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate curls.

  • For extra cuteness, stick a mini candy cane on the side as a “mug handle.”


Storage

  • Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

  • Serve slightly warm for that gooey “hot cocoa” experience!

Notes

These rich, fudgy brownie cups are perfect for cozy winter nights. Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a drizzle of chocolate ganache for an extra indulgent treat.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert / Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 brownie cup
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: Moderate

Keywords: Chocolate Brownie Cups, Hot Cocoa Brownie Bites, Brownie Cups with Ganache, Marshmallow Brownie Cups, Winter Brownie Cups