The Best German Chocolate Cookies Recipe For Sweet Cravings

Sweet chocolate lovers find pure bliss in German chocolate cookies that blend rich cocoa with tropical coconut flavors.

Nutty pecans add delightful crunch to every soft, chewy bite.

Decadent layers of sweetness melt together in this irresistible treat.

Warm kitchens buzz with excitement when these cookies emerge from the oven.

Each morsel promises a delectable journey through classic dessert traditions.

chocolate dreams come alive with one magical recipe that you cannot resist trying.

Prepare to experience pure indulgence in every single crumb.

German Chocolate Cookies: Nutty, Fudgy, Classic

• Dive into Decadence: Experience a luxurious chocolate cookie that transforms classic German chocolate cake into an irresistible handheld treat.
• Master Easy Baking: Create gourmet-style cookies with simple ingredients and straightforward steps that even novice bakers can confidently execute.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Impress family and friends with a delightful sandwich cookie that combines rich chocolate, crunchy pecans, and sweet coconut frosting.
• Versatile Celebration Treat: Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or spontaneous sweet cravings with its elegant yet comforting flavor profile.

Cookie Ingredient Checklist for German Chocolate

• All-Purpose Flour: A key ingredient that provides structure and texture to the German Chocolate Cookies.
• Cocoa Powder: Delivers rich chocolate flavor and deep color to the cookie base.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and creates a soft, tender texture.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.

• Butter: Provides richness and helps create a soft, tender cookie texture.
• Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a chewy cookie consistency.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture to the cookie dough.
• Vanilla Extract: Contributes a classic, warm flavor to the cookies.

• Shredded Coconut, Chopped Pecans, Chocolate Chips: Add texture, crunch, and classic German Chocolate cake flavors to the cookies.
• Evaporated Milk: Creates a creamy base for the frosting.
• Egg Yolk: Helps thicken the frosting and adds richness.

Bake Up German Chocolate Cookies

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Get your oven toasty at 350F.

Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• Flour
• Cocoa powder
• Baking soda
• Salt

Set this chocolatey mixture aside for later.

Step 3: Create Creamy Base

In a large bowl, beat softened butter with sugars until the mixture looks light and fluffy.

This should take about 2-3 minutes of mixing.

Step 4: Add Moisture

Blend in the egg and vanilla extract until everything looks smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Merge Mixtures

Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.

Mix until just combined – don’t overmix!

Step 6: Fold In Delicious Extras

• Shredded coconut
• Chopped pecans
• Chocolate chips

Make sure these goodies are evenly distributed throughout.

Step 7: Shape Cookie Balls

Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to create rounded dough balls.

Place them about 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheets into the oven.

Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges look set and tops have slight cracks.

Step 9: Cool Down

Let cookies rest on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling.

Step 10: Craft Luscious Frosting

• Evaporated milk
• Granulated sugar
• Butter
• Egg yolk
• Vanilla extract

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 10-12 minutes).

Step 11: Finish Frosting

• Shredded coconut
• Chopped pecans

Let the frosting cool to room temperature.

Step 12: Create Sandwich Cookies

Spoon frosting onto one cookie’s flat side.

Top with another cookie, gently pressing to spread frosting.

Step 13: Final Resting

Allow cookies to sit for 30 minutes so flavors can mingle and develop.

Enjoy your decadent creation!

Pro Tips for Cookie Perfection

• Take butter out of the refrigerator 30-45 minutes before baking to achieve the right creamy texture for smooth mixing.
• Chill the cookie dough for 15-20 minutes before baking to prevent excessive spreading and maintain a perfect round shape.
• Toast coconut flakes lightly in a dry skillet before adding to enhance nutty flavor and prevent soggy cookies.
• Cook frosting slowly and stir constantly to prevent burning and achieve a thick, spreadable texture that won't run off cookies.
• Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, separating layers with parchment paper to maintain freshness.

Fun Cookie Swaps to Try

• Gluten-Free German Chocolate Cookies: Replace wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Vegan German Chocolate Cookies: Substitute butter with coconut oil, use flax egg instead of regular egg, and replace evaporated milk with coconut cream for plant-based version.
• Nutless German Chocolate Cookies: Eliminate pecans and replace with sunflower seeds or rolled oats for nut allergy sufferers or those preferring seed alternatives.
• Low-Sugar German Chocolate Cookies: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia instead of granulated sugar, and swap chocolate chips with sugar-free dark chocolate chips for diabetic-friendly option.

Serving German Cookies Warm

• Sweet Dessert Pairing: Serve these decadent German chocolate cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a luxurious and cool contrast.
• Beverage Match: Pair with rich, dark coffee or a creamy hot chocolate to complement the cookies' deep chocolate and nutty flavors.
• Gift-Worthy Presentation: Stack cookies in a clear cellophane bag tied with a rustic ribbon, creating a delightful homemade treat perfect for holiday gifts or special occasions.
• Elegant Serving Style: Arrange cookies on a vintage ceramic platter with a light dusting of powdered sugar, making them look restaurant-worthy and inviting for guests.

Store Cookies for Anytime Treats

• Store cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers for up to 5 days. Keep in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent frosting from melting.
• Wrap individual cookies or the entire batch in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months without compromising taste or texture.
• Remove frozen cookies from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy or dry cookies.
• Warm cookies briefly in a preheated oven at 275F for 3-5 minutes to restore their soft texture and bring out the rich flavors.

FAQs

• Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use a blend that includes xanthan gum for better texture.

• Are these cookies very sweet?

They have a balanced sweetness from the sugars, chocolate chips, and coconut pecan frosting. The cocoa powder helps balance the overall sweetness.

• Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can refrigerate the cookie dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 weeks. Just thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

• Do I need any special equipment to make these cookies?

No special equipment is needed. You’ll just need basic baking tools like mixing bowls, a mixer, baking sheets, and parchment paper or silicone mats.

German Chocolate Cookies Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Rich German chocolate cookies deliver a delightful twist on classic dessert flavors, blending deep cocoa notes with sweet coconut and nutty pecans. Chocolate enthusiasts will savor these irresistible treats that bring German baking traditions right to your kitchen.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg

Sugars and Sweeteners:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk

Additional Mix-ins and Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 large egg yolk, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for optimal cookie performance.
2. Whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl to create a uniform dry mixture.
3. Cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl until the texture becomes light and airy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
4. Incorporate egg and vanilla extract into the butter mixture, ensuring complete integration.
5. Gradually blend dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined to maintain a tender cookie texture.
6. Gently fold shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and chocolate chips throughout the dough for even distribution.
7. Portion dough into rounded tablespoon-sized balls, placing them 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, watching for set edges and slightly cracked cookie tops indicating perfect doneness.
9. Allow cookies to rest on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack for complete cooling.
10. Create frosting by combining evaporated milk, sugar, butter, egg yolk, and vanilla in a saucepan, cooking over medium heat and stirring continuously until thickened, approximately 10-12 minutes.
11. Remove frosting from heat, mixing in shredded coconut and pecans, then allow to cool to room temperature.
12. Once cooled, spread frosting between two cookies, gently pressing to distribute evenly.
13. Let assembled cookies rest for 30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and frosting to set before serving.

Notes

• Softened butter creates a creamy, smooth texture and helps cookies spread evenly during baking.
• Try dark, milk, or white chocolate chips to customize the flavor profile and match personal preferences.
• Replace wheat flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• For nut allergies, substitute pecans with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for similar crunch and texture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: German

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 209 kcal
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 97 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 44 mg