Name: Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup light brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting); 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting); 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting); 2 Tbsp milk (for frosting); Sprinkles, optional (for topping)

Why You’ll Love Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups Recipe

You can make a large batch of these little cookie cups in under 30 minutes.

Each bite combines classic cookie dough with melty chocolate and candy center surprises that everyone loves.

They’re super customizable — add sprinkles, different candies, or a drizzle of extra chocolate.

Ingredients

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

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups light brown sugar, packed
½ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs
3 cups all‑purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups mini semi‑sweet chocolate chips
72 unwrapped candies (such as Reese’s mini cups, Rolos, Snickers, or Milky Way)
2 tablespoons sprinkles (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a mini muffin tin with baking spray.

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with the brown and granulated sugars until blended.

Mix in the vanilla extract and eggs until well combined.

Add the flour, baking soda, and salt; beat just until combined. Fold in the mini chocolate chips.

Use a small cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon) to place dough into each muffin cup.

Bake for 9–11 minutes, until the edges are lightly browned.

As soon as the cookie cups come out of the oven, press one unwrapped candy into the center of each. Add sprinkles if desired.

Let the cookie cups cool in the tin for a few minutes, then use a small knife to loosen and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes about 72 mini cookie cups
Prep time: About 15 minutes
Cook time: About 9 minutes
Total time: About 24 minutes

Variations

Different candies: Swap in your favorite mini chocolates or seasonal treats for the centers.

Sprinkles and toppings: Add colorful sprinkles or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cups.

Flavor additions: Mix in chopped nuts or white chocolate chips for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

You can also freeze baked cookie cups in an airtight, freezer‑safe container for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

What pan do I need to make cookie cups?

A mini muffin tin works best to shape and bake these cookie cups.

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini chips?

Yes, though mini chips distribute more evenly in the small cookie cups.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

This recipe doesn’t require chilling — you can bake right after mixing.

Can I use store‑bought cookie dough?

Yes, store‑bought cookie dough can be used in place of homemade for convenience.

What candies work best for the centers?

Mini peanut butter cups, Rolos, and similar small wrapped chocolates are perfect.

Can I make these gluten‑free?

You could try a gluten‑free flour blend, but results may vary.

Are these cookies sweet?

Yes — they combine cookie dough sweetness with candy centers, so they’re a dessert treat.

Can I skip the sprinkles?

Absolutely — sprinkles are optional and just add color and fun.

How do I keep the cookie cups from sticking to the pan?

Be sure to spray the mini muffin tin well with nonstick spray.

Can I fill the cookie cups with ice cream?

You can — cool the cookie cups completely before adding ice cream right before serving.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups are a fun twist on classic cookies, adding candy surprises and making them perfect for parties, holidays, or just casual baking. They’re easy to make, customizable, and sure to be a crowd‑pleaser no matter the occasion.