Chocolate Comfort Cookies

There’s something downright magical about Chocolate Comfort Cookies—soft, rich, and cozy, they’re the perfect treat for a quiet afternoon at home or a sweet ending to a family dinner. These chocolate cookies were inspired by a murder mystery series I’ve been reading, where a talented cook can’t seem to host an event without stumbling across a crime scene. Thankfully, these cookies come without any intrigue—just layers of chocolatey goodness, marshmallow cream, and a hint of toasty hazelnuts that make them so special.

If you’re craving more comforting sweets, be sure to check out my Rich Rhubarb Brownies, Salted Chocolate Caramels, or Chocolate Cherry Beer Cake!

I fell in love with these Chocolate Comfort Cookies because they remind me of a cozy cup of hot chocolate, courtesy of that dreamy marshmallow cream mixed right into the dough. The combination of chocolates, cranberries, and chopped nuts creates a delicious treats that’s both nostalgic and unique. Perfect for gift-giving, holiday parties, or as a sweet pick-me-up.

a plate of chocolate cookies with chocolate chips, nuts and marshmallow fluff.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A perfect blend of rich chocolate flavors and chewy textures
Marshmallow cream adds a comforting, hot chocolate-like vibe and gives these the perfect soft texture.
Easy to bake in batches for holiday gatherings or cookie swaps

Ingredients Needed

Hazelnuts, chopped: Adds a nutty crunch; try almonds or pecans for a twist.
Semisweet chocolate chips: Feel free to use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
Dried cranberries: Add a tart sweetness; you could substitute dried sour cherries or raisins.
Unsalted butter, softened: Use room-temperature butter to allow for easy mixing.
Granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and structure. You could use a bit less if you prefer a less sweet cookie.
Cream cheese, softened: Adds richness and gives these a tender texture.
Egg: Binds the dough together.
Milk: A splash of milk helps achieve the perfect dough consistency. You can use almond milk or oat milk.
Unsweetened baking chocolate, melted: Deepens the chocolate flavor; substitute dark chocolate if you prefer.
Vanilla: Enhances all the sweet flavors.
Flour: All-purpose works best; measure accurately for the perfect texture.
Baking powder: Helps the cookies puff up nicely.
Salt: Balances sweetness.
Cocoa powder: Intensifies that chocolatey goodness. Use unsweetened.
Marshmallow cream: For that soft, gooey center.

How to Make Chocolate Comfort Cookies

These cookies come together quickly and easily. For the full printable recipe, check out the recipe card at the end of this post.

butter and cream cheese being mixed with a paddle attachment to make cookie dough.

Preheat oven to 325°F. Spread chopped hazelnuts onto an ungreased baking sheet and roast for 7-12 minutes or until lightly browned. Set aside to cool.
In a medium bowl, combine chocolate chips, cranberries, and cooled toasted nuts. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, sugar, cream cheese, and egg until creamy and smooth. Beat in milk, melted chocolate, and vanilla and mix well.

toasted nuts and dried fruit being mixed into the cookie batter.

Helpful Tips

Don’t Overbake: These cookies are best when they’re still a bit soft in the center—pull them out once they’ve puffed and are just set.
Mix-Ins Are Flexible: Not a fan of cranberries or hazelnuts? Swap in your favorite dried fruits or nuts like walnuts or pecans.
Cream Cheese Matters: Pick a good quality cream cheese. Make sure it’s softened for a smooth, creamy dough.

Storage Information

Refrigerator: Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezer: Freeze raw scooped dough balls for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes (about 3 more).

Make Ahead: Prepare the dough a day in advance, keep it in the fridge, and bake when ready for fresh, warm cookies anytime.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy warm with a glass of milk or a mug of hot cocoa for extra coziness.
Serve freshly baked alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dreamy dessert.
Plate them up at your next book club or movie night for a sweet surprise.

chocolate comfort cookies cooling on a black wire rack.

Variations

Nut-Free: Omit the hazelnuts and add more chocolate chips or dried fruit.
Extra Chocolatey: Swap semisweet chips for dark chocolate and add white chocolate chips for contrast.
Festive Twist: Add a handful of crushed candy canes during the holidays for a minty kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different nuts or fruits?

Absolutely! Customize these cookies with almonds, pecans, or chopped dried cherries.

How do I know when they’re done baking?

They should be puffed and just set. A slight underbake keeps them extra soft so it’s always better to take these out a tad too early.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Substitute plant-based butter, cream cheese, and chocolate chips for a dairy-free version.

a plate of chocolate cookies with dried cranberries and toasted hazelnuts with some of them being broken in pieces to reveal the inside.

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