Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Dip: The Coziest Holiday Dessert

Is there anything more quintessentially cozy than a steaming mug of hot cocoa? Now, imagine that warm, chocolatey flavor transformed into a dippable, shareable treat that’s the life of any holiday party. Welcome to your new favorite holiday tradition: Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Dip. This dessert dip is the stuff of holiday dreams, combining the rich taste of your favorite winter drink with the fluffy, sweet goodness of marshmallows. It’s the ultimate easy dessert for those nights when you want maximum festive cheer with minimal kitchen effort. Truly, what’s not to love?

Why You’ll Love This

You’ll love this recipe because it’s incredibly simple, wonderfully versatile, and a total crowd-pleaser. It comes together in about ten minutes with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. This isn’t a fussy, complicated dessert; it’s a quick mix-and-serve situation that lets you get back to your guests. It’s perfect for last-minute get-togethers, holiday movie nights, or even a fun after-school treat for the kids. And let’s be honest, that creamy, chocolatey, marshmallow-y combination is so, so comforting. It’s pure nostalgia in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened: The rich, tangy base of our dip.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds creaminess and helps achieve that perfect dippable texture.
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the dip without any graininess.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings in those classic, deep molasses notes.
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder, unsweetened: Provides that essential, rich chocolate flavor.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors with its warm aroma.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and make the chocolate pop.
• 1 (7 oz) jar marshmallow fluff: The star that gives us that authentic hot cocoa topping vibe.
• 1/2 cup mini marshmallows: For stirring in and topping for extra texture and fun.

Let’s Get Cooking Step by Step

1. First, make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature. This is the secret to a super smooth, lump-free dip. If you forgot to take them out, you can soften them quickly by placing them in a bowl of warm water for 10-15 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer (or a sturdy whisk and some elbow grease) to beat the cream cheese and butter together on medium speed until the mixture is completely smooth and well-combined. This should take about 2 minutes.
3. Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the powdered sugar, brown sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Once the dry ingredients are partially incorporated, increase the speed to medium and beat for another 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. You’re looking for a fluffy, homogeneous chocolate mixture.
4. Now, gently fold in the entire jar of marshmallow fluff and the mini marshmallows. I like to use a spatula for this part to keep those marshmallows intact. Fold until you have a beautifully swirled dip with pockets of fluffy marshmallow throughout.
5. Transfer your dip to a serving bowl and, if you’re feeling fancy, top with a few more mini marshmallows and a light dusting of cocoa powder. Serve immediately with your favorite dippers!

Tips For Success with Hot Cocoa Dip

• Seriously, soften that cream cheese and butter. It makes all the difference between a silky dip and a lumpy one.
• For an extra depth of flavor, use dark cocoa powder instead of regular unsweetened.
• If your dip seems a bit thick for your liking, you can thin it out with a tablespoon or two of milk. Start with one and go from there.
• For a fun presentation, serve the dip in a festive holiday bowl surrounded by all your dippers. It makes such a beautiful centerpiece!
• Honestly, if you’re a mint chocolate fan, a drop or two of peppermint extract would be absolutely delicious here.
• Don’t stress about perfection. A few lumps just add character—it will still taste amazing.

Variations & Substitutions to Try

• Dairy-Free: Use your favorite plant-based cream cheese and butter alternatives. They work wonderfully!
• Add some crunch: Fold in a half cup of crushed peppermint candies or mini chocolate chips at the end.
• Spiked version: For an adults-only treat, add a tablespoon of Irish cream or peppermint schnapps along with the vanilla.
• Nutty twist: A tablespoon of smooth peanut butter or Nutella swirled in would be a fantastic flavor combo.
• Lighter option: You can use reduced-fat cream cheese, but the texture might be a touch less creamy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The dip will firm up significantly when chilled. When you’re ready to serve it again, let it sit on the counter for 30-60 minutes to come to room temperature for the best texture. You can also gently reheat it in the microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring between each, until it’s warm and spreadable again. Be careful not to overheat it, or the marshmallows will melt completely. I don’t recommend freezing this dip, as the creamy texture can become grainy when thawed.

Serving Ideas & Pairings for Your Treats

The fun part! This Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Dip is a superstar when it comes to pairing. Think of all the things you’d love to drag through a pool of chocolate. My go-tos are graham crackers, pretzel rods or twists (that sweet and salty thing is everything), fresh strawberries or apple slices, vanilla wafers, and shortbread cookies. It also makes an incredible frosting for cupcakes or a decadent spread for a slice of pound cake. For a full holiday desserts spread, pair it with other simple Christmas treats like sugar cookies or brownie bites. It’s the perfect centerpiece for your holiday dessert board.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Can I make this Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Dip ahead of time?
  A: Absolutely! It’s one of the best easy Christmas desserts for prepping ahead. Make it up to two days in advance, store it covered in the fridge, and then just let it warm up on the counter before your party.
• Q: My dip is too thick. What can I do?
  A: No problem! Simply beat in a tablespoon of milk at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. This is a great trick for all kinds of dessert dips.
• Q: What are some other easy Christmas party desserts to serve with this?
  A: This dip is fantastic on its own, but it pairs beautifully with other simple holiday treats like a plate of fudge, Christmas-themed rice crispy treats, or a bowl of holiday baking classics like gingerbread men.
• Q: Can I use homemade marshmallow fluff?
  A: You sure can! If you have a favorite homemade recipe, feel free to use about 1 3/4 cups of it in place of the jarred fluff. It will taste amazing.