Cuckoo Cookies Recipe – A Fudgy, Marshmallow-Topped Delight
If you’re in search of a soft, fudgy cookie with a touch of marshmallow magic, these Cuckoo Cookies will hit the spot! With a gooey marshmallow topping and a hint of walnut crunch, they’re a unique treat that’s incredibly easy to make. Follow this step-by-step guide for an irresistible batch of cookies that’s perfect for sharing.
Recipe Details
| Name | Cuckoo Cookies |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 9 minutes (total oven time per pan) |
| Total Time | 19 minutes |
| Servings | 72 cookies |
| Categories | Dessert, Drop Cookies |
| Ideal For | Large Groups, Parties, and Kids’ Treats |
| Keywords | Dessert, Cookie & Brownie, Quick Recipes (< 30 mins), Oven-Baked, Party Treat |
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
| Calories | Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Carbohydrates | Fiber | Sugars | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 102.7 kcal | 3.6 g | 1.1 g | 7.3 mg | 59.2 mg | 17 g | 0.4 g | 10.9 g | 1.2 g |
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 cup | Shortening |
| 2 cups | Sugar |
| 2 | Eggs |
| ½ cup | Milk |
| 1 cup | Flour |
| 3½ tsp | Baking Soda |
| 1 tsp | Salt |
| 1 tsp | Vanilla Extract |
| 1 cup | Cocoa Powder |
Topping
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 36 | Large Marshmallows, halved |
| 36 | Walnut Halves (optional) |
Frosting
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 tbsp | Butter, softened |
| 3 tbsp | Milk |
| 1 tsp | Vanilla Extract |
| 4 cups | Powdered Sugar |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare for Baking
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Cookie Sheets: Lightly spray the cookie sheets with a non-stick baking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
- Cream Shortening and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the shortening and sugar together until they’re creamy and well-blended.
- Add the Eggs: Crack in the eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Incorporate the Milk: Stir in the milk. Note that the dough will become quite runny—this is expected.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add in the baking soda, salt, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and flour. Mix well until the dough is fully combined. The dough should be very soft and slightly sticky. Avoid adding extra flour to maintain the fudgy texture.
Step 3: Form and Bake the Cookies
- Scoop the Dough: Using a teaspoon, drop slightly heaping spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared cookie sheets. Aim for about 12 cookies per sheet, ensuring enough space between each as they bake.
- Bake Initial Round: Place the cookie sheet in the oven and bake for 6 minutes. The cookies should be slightly firm but still soft in the center.
- Add Marshmallow Topping: Carefully remove the cookies from the oven and immediately place a marshmallow half (cut side down) on each cookie. If you’d like a walnut topping, press a walnut half into the marshmallow at this point.
- Bake with Topping: Return the cookies to the oven and bake for an additional 3 minutes. The marshmallow will puff up but will settle down as it cools.
- Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 1 minute, then transfer them to a wire rack to finish cooling completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, milk, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust Consistency: If the frosting feels too thick, add a touch more milk to reach a glaze-like consistency, perfect for drizzling. This will help the frosting smoothly coat the marshmallow without tearing it.
Step 5: Frost the Cookies
- Drizzle the Frosting: Using a small spoon, drizzle a bit of frosting over each cookie. Avoid spreading the frosting, as it can damage the marshmallow layer.
- Allow to Set: Let the frosting set before serving or storing the cookies.
Tips for Success
- Sticky Dough: If you find the dough very sticky, try lightly greasing your spoon with a bit of cooking spray to make handling the dough easier.
- Marshmallow Alternative: You can also try using mini marshmallows for smaller, bite-sized topping—simply place two to three mini marshmallows on each cookie before the final bake.
- Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The marshmallow topping may slightly flatten over time, but they’ll stay soft and delicious.
This delightful, fudgy cookie recipe brings a touch of whimsy to any gathering, from holiday parties to casual get-togethers. With minimal prep time and a perfect balance of rich cocoa, fluffy marshmallow, and sweet glaze, Cuckoo Cookies are an easy, crowd-pleasing treat that’s sure to impress.
