Surprise cookies: originally a recipe created from the mind of Martha Stewart and then adopted by my family as a Christmas tradition. These cookies have always been a hit–from when we would make them for Santa to a wonderful dessert at Christmas Eve dinner. For as long as I remember, my mother has been making surprise cookies during the holiday season. I hope you can enjoy them as much as my family does!

Ingredients (makes about 24 cookies):

• 1¾ cups flour
• ¾ cup cocoa powder
• ½ tablespoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 stick (½ cup) of unsalted, softened butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup of milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or vanilla substitute)
• 12 marshmallows, each cut in half

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
2. Obtain a medium bowl and mix together the flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda ingredients with a whisk.
3. For about two minutes, cream the butter and sugar. Add the egg, milk, and vanilla and continue mixing until the texture is even throughout the mixture Add the yield from step two and mix on low speed.
4. Use a tablespoon to scoop out the dough onto a baking sheet, each scoop about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes.
6. Remove cookies and lightly press marshmallow halves into the dough (cut side down).
7. Continue baking for 2 – 2½ minutes.
8. Place the cookie sheet onto a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Cover marshmallows with 1 tablespoon of chocolate frosting. Frosting may be of your choice, but this recipe is great for chocolate surprise cookies!