German Chocolate Cake Cookies Recipe

Name: German Chocolate Cake Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 (13.35-to 15.25-ounce) (2-layer-size) package devils food cake mix; 2 1/4 cup shredded sweetened coconut, divided; 3/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted; 1 (8-ounce) container frozen whipped dessert topping, thawed

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

1 (13.35 to 15.25-ounce) package (2-layer-size) devil's food cake mix
2 1/4 cups shredded sweetened coconut, divided
3/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted
1 (8-ounce) frozen whipped dessert topping, thawed

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, 3/4 cup of shredded coconut, and toasted pecans.
Stir in the thawed whipped dessert topping until fully combined. The dough will be sticky.
Place the remaining 1 cup of shredded coconut in a small bowl.
Coat a 1 1/2 tablespoon-size cookie scoop with nonstick cooking spray. Drop scoopfuls of dough into the coconut and roll to coat. Shape the dough into balls.
Place the coconut-coated dough balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 10 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are just set.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	163
Total Fat	9g (11%)
Saturated Fat	5g (24%)
Cholesterol	0mg (0%)
Sodium	170mg (7%)
Total Carbohydrate	21g (8%)
Dietary Fiber	2g (6%)
Total Sugars	12g
Protein	2g (3%)
Vitamin C	0mg (0%)
Calcium	28mg (2%)
Iron	1mg (4%)
Potassium	109mg (2%)

German Chocolate Cake Cookies Recipe

History of German Chocolate Cake Cookies

German Chocolate Cake Cookies are inspired by the iconic German Chocolate Cake, a dessert that originated in the United States in the 1950s. Despite the name, the cake has no direct connection to Germany; it is named after Samuel German, who developed a type of dark-baking chocolate for Baker's Chocolate Company. These cookies adapt the classic cake flavorsrich chocolate, toasted pecans, and sweet coconutinto a convenient, handheld treat, allowing lovers of the original cake to enjoy it in cookie form without the need for multiple layers and frosting.

Regional Variations

While the original German Chocolate Cake became popular in the southern United States, cookie adaptations are enjoyed nationwide. In the South, bakers often incorporate additional ingredients like caramel or butterscotch chips to enrich the texture and flavor. Some regions may toast the coconut to a darker golden brown for a nuttier taste, while others prefer to fold in extra pecans to create a crunchier bite. These subtle variations highlight local preferences while maintaining the essence of the dessert.

Differences from Similar Desserts

Unlike standard chocolate cookies, German Chocolate Cake Cookies emphasize a combination of flavors: the deep cocoa taste, the sweet chewiness of coconut, and the crunch of toasted pecans. Unlike traditional German Chocolate Cake, which is served in layered slices with frosting, these cookies offer the same flavor profile in a bite-sized form, making them faster to prepare and easier to serve at gatherings. Compared to other chocolate-based cookies, these are less dense than brownies and sweeter than standard chocolate chip cookies, standing out for their tropical and nutty notes.

Typical Serving Occasions

German Chocolate Cake Cookies are popular at family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and bake sales. They are often served alongside coffee or tea as an afternoon treat or plated on dessert trays during parties. Due to their festive appearance with shredded coconut coating, they also make a favorite for special occasions like Christmas, birthdays, and potlucks, where both children and adults enjoy their rich, nostalgic flavor.

Interesting Facts

The cookies retain the signature coconut-pecan frosting flavor of the original cake without requiring baking a full cake.
They are sometimes made using cake mix, which allows for consistent results and simplifies preparation for home bakers.
The combination of toasted pecans and coconut provides a unique texture contrast that is rarely found in traditional cookies.
Despite the name, the desserts origin is entirely American, reflecting mid-20th-century baking innovations rather than European culinary traditions.
Many bakers experiment with mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for an extra indulgent version, showing the recipes versatility.

FAQ about German Chocolate Cake Cookies Recipe

Yes, you can experiment with other cake mixes, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture may differ slightly. A chocolate or even a vanilla cake mix could work, but the distinct flavor of German chocolate cake may be altered.

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.

Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough balls before baking and bake them fresh when needed.

Yes, you can substitute whipped dessert topping with whipped cream or even Greek yogurt. However, whipped topping will provide the fluffiest texture. Adjust for sweetness if using alternatives.

If your dough is too sticky, you can chill it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and roll into balls.

Yes, feel free to add other ingredients like chocolate chips, raisins, or dried cranberries. Just make sure to balance the proportions so the dough remains workable.

While parchment paper helps prevent sticking, you can bake the cookies directly on a greased baking sheet if needed. Just be sure to check them during baking to avoid burning.

The cookies are done when the edges are set and the tops look slightly dry. Be careful not to overbake; the cookies will continue to set as they cool.

Yes, you can easily adjust the recipe. If doubling, make sure you have enough space on your baking sheets and that the baking time might increase slightly. If halving, keep an eye on the cookies during baking.

Comments

Kelly Martin

11/07/2023 01:41:02 PM

Simple and quick! I ended up making two batches of this recipe. Next, I'm going to attempt making it in a bar pan 😊.

Patrick Cruz

07/08/2023 07:09:15 PM

I ended up making twice the amount of these cookies because by the time the second batch was ready, the first batch had mysteriously disappeared! They are incredibly delicious...