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German Chocolate Cookies

German Chocolate Cookies

Chewy, fudgy chocolate cookies topped with a gooey coconut-pecan filling—these German Chocolate Cookies capture all the flavors of the classic cake in a handheld treat.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours
Course Cookies, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 260 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
  • Saucepan
  • Baking Sheets

Ingredients
  

Cookie Base

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup cocoa powder use dark cocoa for richer flavor if desired
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Coconut-Pecan Topping

  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sweetened coconut can use unsweetened for less sweetness
  • 1 cup chopped pecans toasted for best flavor; swap with walnuts if preferred

Instructions
 

  • Cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
  • Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
  • Whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Mix into wet ingredients until just combined.
  • Cover dough and chill for at least 1 hour.
  • Scoop dough onto lined baking sheets and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 9–11 minutes. Cool completely.
  • For topping: In a saucepan, whisk evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Cook over medium heat until thickened, stirring constantly.
  • Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Cool completely.
  • Spoon topping onto cooled cookies, pressing lightly so it sticks. Let set 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

These cookies can be baked ahead and frozen without topping for up to 3 months. Add the coconut-pecan topping after thawing for best results. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Keyword Coconut Pecan, German Chocolate Cookies, Holiday Baking