Makes 24 cookies
Indulge in the iconic flavors of German Chocolate Cake transformed into soft, fudgy cookies swirled with a caramelized coconut-pecan topping. Perfect for holidays or cookie swaps!
Ingredients
Chocolate Cookie Dough:
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process preferred)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted and cooled
Coconut-Pecan Frosting:
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Instructions
1. Make the Cookie Dough:
- Whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, vanilla, and melted chocolate. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until combined. Chill dough for 1 hour.
2. Prepare the Frosting:
- In a saucepan, whisk evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened (8–10 mins).
- Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Let cool completely.
3. Bake the Cookies:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment.
- Scoop dough into 1½-tbsp balls. Place 2 inches apart on sheets. Bake 10–12 mins (centers will be soft). Cool on sheets for 5 mins, then transfer to a rack.
4. Assemble:
- Once cookies are cool, spoon 1 tsp of frosting onto each. Optional: Broil 30 seconds for a toasted topping (watch closely!).
Tips for Success
- Texture: Underbake cookies slightly for a soft, cake-like center.
- Toasting Nuts: Toast pecans in a dry skillet for 3–4 mins to enhance flavor.
- Storage: Store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days; frost before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
- Authentic Flavor: The coconut-pecan frosting mimics the classic cake’s signature layer.
- Rich Chocolate Base: Melted chocolate + cocoa powder ensures deep, fudgy decadence.
- Easy Assembly: Frosting is cooked once and swirled on—no fussy layering!
Serve these cookies with coffee or milk, and watch them disappear faster than a slice of cake!
