Mini Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups with Candy Topping

Mini chocolate chip cookie cups with candy topping are an adorable and delicious dessert that combines soft, chewy cookie cups with a sweet candy surprise. Perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you need a bite-sized treat, these cookie cups are easy to make and endlessly customizable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bite-sized fun: Perfect for parties or snacking.
• Customizable: Add your favorite candies for endless variations.
• Easy to make: Uses simple ingredients and quick steps.
• Crowd-pleaser: A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cookie Cups:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

For the Topping:

• Mini candies (e.g., M&M’s, Reese’s Pieces, or chocolate kisses)
• Optional: Sprinkles, melted chocolate, or frosting for decorating

Directions

Make the Cookie Cups:

1. Preheat oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking.
2. Cream butter and sugars:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add wet ingredients:
   • Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Combine dry ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
5. Form the cups:
   • Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them into the wells of the mini muffin tin.
6. Bake:
   • Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are slightly soft.

Add the Candy Topping:

7. Press the centers:
   • While the cookies are still warm, use the back of a spoon or a small rounded object to press a well into the center of each cookie.
8. Add candies:
   • Place a mini candy or chocolate into the center of each cookie cup.
9. Cool and set:
   • Let the cookie cups cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve:

10. Decorate and enjoy:
    • Add sprinkles, drizzle with melted chocolate, or pipe a swirl of frosting for extra flair.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 24 mini cookie cups
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Peanut butter surprise: Use peanut butter cups or fill with a dollop of peanut butter.
• Festive treats: Use holiday-themed candies or sprinkles for seasonal celebrations.
• Caramel center: Add a soft caramel candy and drizzle with sea salt.
• Nutty option: Top with chopped nuts or use nut-filled chocolates.

Storage

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Extend freshness by storing in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unfilled cookie cups for up to 2 months. Add candy toppings after thawing.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought cookie dough?

Yes, store-bought dough works well for a quicker version.

2. What if I don’t have a mini muffin tin?

Use a regular muffin tin for larger cookie cups, adjusting the baking time to 10-12 minutes.

3. How do I prevent the cookie cups from sticking?

Grease the muffin tin thoroughly or use non-stick spray.

4. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

5. What candies work best?

M&M’s, Reese’s Cups, chocolate kisses, or mini marshmallows are great choices.

6. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

7. How do I keep the candies from melting too much?

Add the candies after the cookies have cooled slightly but are still warm enough to hold them in place.

8. Can I add frosting?

Yes, pipe a swirl of frosting onto the cooled cookie cups for extra sweetness.

9. How do I get uniform cookie cups?

Use a cookie scoop to ensure evenly sized dough balls.

10. What pairs well with these cookie cups?

Serve with milk, hot chocolate, or coffee for a delightful treat.

Conclusion

Mini chocolate chip cookie cups with candy topping are a fun and delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With their soft, chewy base and endless topping options, these cookie cups are sure to be a hit with everyone. Customize them to suit your taste, and enjoy this bite-sized indulgence!

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