If you’re a fan of rich, chewy chocolate desserts with a coconut-pecan kick, these German Chocolate Cookies will be your new obsession. Inspired by the beloved cake, this cookie version is gooey, indulgent, and packed with texture. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a cookie swap, or just treating yourself to something extraordinary, these cookies deliver the same nostalgic flavors in a portable, poppable form.
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What Makes These Cookies a German Chocolate Cake Lover’s Dream
Traditional German chocolate cake is known for its light chocolate layers and signature coconut-pecan frosting. These cookies take that same flavor profile and turn it into a thick, chewy bite-sized dessert. They blend deep chocolate flavor (thanks to baking chocolate and cocoa) with soft centers and crunchy, sweet toppings. If you’re into chocolate and coconut recipes, this one’s for you. And if you’ve ever searched for a Great American Cookie recipe copycat, these chewy, decadent cookies might just hit the mark.
Ingredients for German Chocolate Cake Cookies Recipe
To make these amazing cookies, you’ll need:
For the cookie dough:
- 4 oz (113g) unsweetened baking chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Optional coconut-pecan topping:
- ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk (for drizzling or binding)
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need for Baking These Rich Chocolate Cookies
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk and spatula
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions for German Chocolate Cookies
- Melt chocolate and butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt baking chocolate and butter together in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Mix sugars and eggs: In a large mixing bowl, beat together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and the cooled chocolate mixture.
- Add dry ingredients: Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Chill dough: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for 30–60 minutes to firm up.
- Scoop and bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop dough into tablespoon-sized balls, placing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 9–11 minutes until the edges are set and centers are soft.
- Cool and top: Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack. While still warm, top with coconut-pecan mixture or a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk.
Tips for Getting the Perfect Chewy Texture and Rich Flavor
Use room temperature eggs to help the dough mix evenly.
Don’t overbake—cookies should be just set around the edges but still soft in the middle.
Chill the dough to keep cookies thick and prevent spreading.
Use high-quality baking chocolate for the richest chocolate flavor.
Add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate taste even more.
Topping Ideas: Chocolate Coconut, Pecans, and More
For a classic chocolate coconut cookies recipe feel, top each cookie with a spoonful of sweetened shredded coconut and chopped pecans mixed with sweetened condensed milk.
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt for a sweet-salty contrast.
Make a German chocolate brownie cookies version by baking the dough in muffin tins and adding more topping.
Add chocolate chips, caramel bits, or a swirl of Nutella for extra indulgence.
Serving Suggestions: When and How to Enjoy These Cookies
Serve these cookies at:
Holiday parties and cookie swaps
As gifts in cookie boxes or tins
On dessert platters with brownies and truffles candy
Warmed slightly with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream
Paired with coffee for an afternoon treat
They’re rich enough to satisfy even the most serious chocolate lover and beautiful enough to impress a crowd.
Storage and Freezing Tips for German Chocolate Cookies
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
To freeze baked cookies: Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
To freeze the dough: Scoop dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Store the frozen dough balls in a bag and bake from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the bake time.
Frequently Asked Questions About German Chocolate Cookies
Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of baking chocolate?
Yes, but baking chocolate gives a richer flavor and smoother melt. Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best result.
Do I have to chill the dough?
Chilling helps the dough firm up and prevents spreading. For thick, chewy cookies, don’t skip it.
Can I make the topping in advance?
Absolutely. Mix the coconut, pecans, and condensed milk and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Is this the same as a cookie version of German chocolate cake?
Yes—this is a simplified take that captures all the classic flavors in cookie form.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.
Why These Are Some of the Best Chocolate Cookies Ever
Whether you’re a fan of Rock Recipes Newfoundland Cookies, nostalgic desserts, or just really good cookies, these German Chocolate Cookies are next-level delicious. They’re chewy, rich, and layered with chocolate, coconut, and pecans—the ultimate combination. Perfect for holidays, parties, or an anytime treat, they’ll quickly earn a permanent place in your baking rotation. Try them once, and you’ll see why they might just be one of the best chocolate cookies ever.
PrintGerman Chocolate Cookies : A Decadent Twist o
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Description
If you’re a fan of rich, chewy chocolate desserts with a coconut-pecan kick, these German Chocolate Cookies will be your new obsession.
Ingredients
For the cookie dough:
- 4 oz (113g) unsweetened baking chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Optional coconut-pecan topping:
- ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk (for drizzling or binding)
Instructions
- Melt chocolate and butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt baking chocolate and butter together in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Mix sugars and eggs: In a large mixing bowl, beat together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and the cooled chocolate mixture.
- Add dry ingredients: Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Chill dough: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for 30–60 minutes to firm up.
- Scoop and bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop dough into tablespoon-sized balls, placing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 9–11 minutes until the edges are set and centers are soft.
- Cool and top: Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack. While still warm, top with coconut-pecan mixture or a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk.
Notes
Use room temperature eggs to help the dough mix evenly.
Don’t overbake—cookies should be just set around the edges but still soft in the middle.
Chill the dough to keep cookies thick and prevent spreading.
Use high-quality baking chocolate for the richest chocolate flavor.
Add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate taste even more.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 cookies
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
Keywords: German Chocolate Cookies