German Chocolate Cookies

Rich chocolate cookies that are full of coconut, pecans, and melty chocolate pieces, German Chocolate Cookies offer all the delightful flavors of a classic German chocolate cake without the fuss. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not only delicious but also easy to whip up. With their chewy texture and irresistible combination of ingredients, they are sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These cookies come together quickly with minimal effort, making them suitable for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Flavorful Delight: The rich chocolate flavor combined with coconut and pecans creates a unique taste that stands out from ordinary chocolate cookies.
• Versatile Treat: Whether for a casual gathering, holiday celebration, or just a sweet craving, these cookies fit every occasion perfectly.
• Batch Friendly: This recipe yields 36 cookies, making it ideal for sharing or storing for later enjoyment.
• No Special Ingredients Needed: Everything needed can usually be found in your pantry, simplifying the baking process.

Tools and Preparation

To make these German Chocolate Cookies, having the right tools will help ensure success. Below is a list of essential equipment that will aid in your cookie-making journey.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl allows for easy combining of ingredients without spills.
• Cookie Scoop: Using a cookie scoop ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking and presentation.
• Baking Sheets: Properly lined baking sheets prevent sticking and promote even cooking.

Ingredients

To create these delightful German Chocolate Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cookies

• 1 cup butter (melted)
• 1 ½ cups brown sugar (packed)
• 1 large egg
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 2 ounces semisweet or German chocolate (chopped)

How to Make German Chocolate Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large microwave-safe mixing bowl, melt the butter.
2. Stir in the brown sugar until well combined.
3. Let the mixture stand for about 5 minutes to cool slightly.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

1. Add the egg and egg yolk to the butter-sugar mixture; stir until fully combined.
2. Mix in the vanilla extract until incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. Add in the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and kosher salt.
2. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Fold in Add-ins

Gently fold in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and chopped chocolate until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Portion and Bake

1. Using a medium cookie scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons), drop scoops of dough onto the prepared cookie sheet about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake for approximately 8–12 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft.

Step 7: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your homemade German Chocolate Cookies!

With this straightforward recipe, you’ll have delicious German Chocolate Cookies ready in no time!

How to Serve German Chocolate Cookies

German chocolate cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a cozy evening, these cookies can be served with an array of accompaniments.

With Milk

• Pairing your German chocolate cookies with a cold glass of milk enhances their rich flavor and adds a creamy balance.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful dessert platter. This presentation is perfect for parties and gatherings, making them visually appealing.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve the cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream. The melty ice cream contrasts beautifully with the chewy cookie texture.

With Fresh Berries

• Add some freshness by serving the cookies alongside fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries. Their tartness complements the sweetness of the cookies.

As Part of a Gift Basket

• Include these cookies in a homemade gift basket along with other treats. They make a thoughtful and delicious gift for any occasion.

How to Perfect German Chocolate Cookies

Baking perfect German chocolate cookies takes practice, but these tips will help elevate your baking game.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to keep the cookies tender and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Chill the Dough: For thicker, chewier cookies, consider chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This step helps control spreading.

• Check for Doneness: Cookies should be set at the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.

Best Side Dishes for German Chocolate Cookies

While German chocolate cookies are delightful on their own, pairing them with complementary sides can enhance your dessert experience.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the richness of the cookies.

2. Coconut Whipped Cream: This dairy-free option is light and fluffy, providing a tropical flair that matches well with coconut flavors.

3. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These indulgent treats are easy to prepare and pair beautifully with the flavors in German chocolate cookies.

4. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each cookie adds an extra layer of sweetness and decadence.

5. Nutty Granola: Serve alongside some crunchy granola for added texture and a delightful contrast to the soft cookie.

6. Coffee or Espresso: A hot cup of coffee enhances the chocolate flavors while providing a comforting beverage pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making German chocolate cookies can be simple, but certain mistakes may lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps in achieving a smooth batter.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can make your cookies tough. Stir until just combined for the best texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour leads to dry cookies. Use a kitchen scale or spoon flour into the measuring cup and level off.
• Skipping the chilling step: If you chill your dough for 30 minutes, it helps prevent spreading. This keeps your cookies thick and chewy.
• Ignoring baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Pull them out when the edges are set, even if they look soft in the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Cookies will stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Freezing German Chocolate Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating German Chocolate Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat!
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat with a lid for about 1-2 minutes, watching closely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding German chocolate cookies that might help you in your baking journey.

What makes German Chocolate Cookies different from regular chocolate cookies?

German chocolate cookies incorporate coconut and pecans for added texture and flavor, mimicking the classic German chocolate cake experience.

Can I substitute ingredients in the German Chocolate Cookies recipe?

Yes! You can use margarine instead of butter or replace nuts with other favorites like walnuts or almonds if desired.

How do I store leftover German Chocolate Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I freeze the cookie dough before baking?

Absolutely! Freeze the shaped dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

How do I ensure my German Chocolate Cookies are chewy?

Do not overbake them; remove from the oven when edges are set but centers appear slightly underbaked.

Final Thoughts

German chocolate cookies offer a delightful twist on traditional flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. Their rich taste combined with coconut and pecans creates an irresistible treat that’s sure to please. Feel free to customize by adding different nuts or adjusting sweetness levels according to your preference!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

German Chocolate Cookies

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 36 cookies 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of German Chocolate Cookies, an irresistible treat that combines rich chocolate with sweetened shredded coconut and crunchy pecans. These cookies capture the essence of a classic German chocolate cake without the hassle, making them perfect for any occasion. Their chewy texture and melty chocolate pieces will impress your family and friends, whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply satisfying a sweet craving. Plus, with straightforward instructions and pantry-friendly ingredients, baking these cookies is a breeze. Enjoy them warm with a glass of milk, on a dessert platter, or even paired with ice cream for an extra special treat.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup melted butter
• 1 ½ cups packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 2 ounces semisweet or German chocolate (chopped)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, melt the butter and mix in brown sugar until combined; let cool for about 5 minutes.
3. Add eggs and vanilla extract; stir until fully mixed.
4. Gradually incorporate flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until just combined.
5. Fold in coconut, pecans, and chopped chocolate.
6. Using a cookie scoop, drop dough onto prepared sheets about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 8–12 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft.
8. Cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (27g)
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 75mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg