Chocolate marshmallow cookies can be known by several names, but one of the most famous commercial varieties in the United States is Mallomars.
Understanding Chocolate Marshmallow Cookies
The term "chocolate marshmallow cookies" broadly describes a delightful category of treats featuring a cookie or cracker base, a fluffy marshmallow component, and a chocolate coating or inclusion. While some are specific branded products, others are general homemade creations or regional specialties.
Mallomars: A Classic Example
Mallomars are an iconic confection in the United States, produced by Nabisco. These distinctive treats feature a circular graham cracker base topped with a dollop of extruded marshmallow, all encased in a thin, crisp shell of dark chocolate. Mallomars were first introduced to the public in 1913, the same year as another popular marshmallow-based confection, the Moon Pie, which shares similar core ingredients. Due to their delicate chocolate coating, Mallomars are traditionally a seasonal item, typically available from autumn through spring, as warmer temperatures can cause the chocolate to melt.
Key characteristics of Mallomars include:
- A crisp graham cracker base.
- A generous mound of soft, airy extruded marshmallow.
- A smooth, dark chocolate shell that encases the marshmallow and cracker.
- A rich history, originating in 1913.
Other Popular Names and Variations
Beyond Mallomars, many other treats fit the description of chocolate marshmallow cookies, each with unique characteristics and preparations:
- Moon Pies: A classic Southern American treat, Moon Pies consist of two round graham cracker cookies with a marshmallow filling, dipped in a flavored coating (most commonly chocolate). Like Mallomars, they were also introduced in 1913.
- S'mores Cookies: Inspired by the campfire classic, these cookies often feature a graham cracker-flavored base, melted chocolate, and toasted marshmallows on top. They capture the essence of a traditional s'more in cookie form.
- Hot Chocolate Cookies: Some recipes for "hot chocolate cookies" incorporate marshmallows, either as small pieces baked into the cookie or as a marshmallow topping that gets lightly toasted, often alongside chocolate chunks or cocoa-rich dough.
- Wagon Wheels: Popular in other parts of the world, such as the UK, Australia, and Canada, Wagon Wheels are another type of chocolate-coated marshmallow cookie, typically larger and with a jam layer in some variations.
- Homemade Creations: Many home bakers enjoy creating their own versions of chocolate marshmallow cookies, experimenting with different cookie bases (chocolate chip, shortbread), marshmallow types (homemade, store-bought), and chocolate finishes (drizzled, dipped, chips).
Key Ingredients and Characteristics
While specific names vary, most chocolate marshmallow cookies share a few common elements:
| Feature | Mallomars | Moon Pies | S'mores Cookies (Homemade) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Graham cracker circle | Two round graham cracker cookies | Cookie dough (often graham-infused) |
| Marshmallow | Extruded marshmallow | Marshmallow creme or soft marshmallow | Toasted mini marshmallows |
| Chocolate | Thin dark chocolate shell | Chocolate coating (milk or dark) | Chocolate chips, chunks, or drizzle |
| Texture | Crisp cracker, soft marshmallow, firm shell | Soft cookie, gooey marshmallow, firm coating | Chewy cookie, gooey marshmallow, melted chocolate |
| Common Origin | Nabisco (USA, 1913) | Chattanooga Bakery (USA, 1913) | Home baking inspiration |
Tips for Enjoying Chocolate Marshmallow Treats
No matter what you call them, these cookies offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
- Pairing: They are excellent alongside a cup of coffee, tea, or, fittingly, hot chocolate.
- Serving Temperature: Some varieties, like S'mores cookies, are best enjoyed warm when the marshmallow is still gooey. Mallomars are typically eaten at room temperature.
- Storage: Store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness, especially for homemade versions.
