German Chocolate Cookies with Coconut Pecan Frosting Recipe

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If you love the rich, indulgent flavors of a classic Southern chocolate treat but crave the convenience of a handheld delight, this German Chocolate Cookies with Coconut Pecan Frosting Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine soft, cocoa-infused cookies topped with a luscious, gooey coconut pecan frosting that perfectly balances sweetness and texture. These cookies effortlessly combine the essence of German chocolate cake into a bite-sized wonder that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether for cozy afternoons or festive gatherings, they’re sure to bring smiles and satisfied sighs all around.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these heavenly German Chocolate Cookies with Coconut Pecan Frosting, you only need a handful of simple ingredients, each carefully chosen to build the deep chocolate flavor, tender crumb, and rich frosting you’re dreaming of. Every component plays a crucial role, from the cocoa powder adding intense color to the toasted pecans delivering a buttery crunch in the frosting.

• All-purpose flour, 1⅔ cups (200g): The base for a tender yet sturdy cookie structure.
• Cocoa powder, ½ cup (50g): For that deep, chocolatey richness that defines these cookies.
• Baking soda, ¾ teaspoon: Provides just enough lift for a tender texture.
• Salt, ½ teaspoon: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
• Unsalted butter, ¾ cup softened (170g): Adds creamy richness and moisture.
• Light brown sugar, ½ cup (110g): Introduces subtle caramel notes and chewiness.
• Granulated sugar, ½ cup plus ½ cup for frosting (total 100g + 100g): Sweetens the dough and frosting with clean, bright sugar flavors.
• Large egg, 1 (room temperature): Binds ingredients together and helps with texture.
• Vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons plus ½ teaspoon for frosting: Brings warmth and depth to both cookie and icing.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips, ½ cup (90g) plus 1 cup (180g) for drizzle: Melts in the dough and decorates the finished cookies.
• German chocolate, 4 ounces chopped (113g): Adds authentic cake-like texture and flavor chunks.
• Evaporated milk, ½ cup (120mL): Creates the signature creamy frosting base.
• Large egg yolk, 1: Enriches the frosting for that silky consistency.
• Unsalted butter, ¼ cup cubed (56g) for frosting: Key for luscious mouthfeel.
• Sweetened shredded coconut, 1 cup (95g): Provides sweet chew and tropical flair.
• Pecans, ½ cup toasted and finely chopped (50g): Imparts crunch and nutty aroma.

How to Make German Chocolate Cookies with Coconut Pecan Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dry Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F, the perfect temperature to bake these cookies to soft, fudgy perfection. Meanwhile, whisk the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl, ensuring every ingredient is evenly mixed. This blend is the foundation of your cookie’s tender crumb and deep chocolate notes.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In your mixer, cream together the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy and pale, about 3 minutes. This step is vital because the incorporated air gives your cookies a lighter bite, balancing their rich, dense chocolate flavor.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Next, blend in the egg and vanilla extract on low speed just until combined. Be gentle here—overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, and we want them soft and tender.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Slowly add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in batches, mixing just until everything comes together. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped German chocolate; these delicious bursts will melt into pockets of gooey delight as the cookies bake.

Step 5: Shape and Bake Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 9 minutes, then gently tap the pan on the counter to flatten the cookies slightly—this technique helps create the perfect surface for your frosting later. Let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.

Step 6: Prepare the Frosting

In a small saucepan, whisk together the sugar, evaporated milk, and egg yolk. Add the cubed butter and salt, then cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture reaches a low boil and thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This creamy base is the magic that makes the frosting irresistibly rich.

Step 7: Finish the Frosting

Remove the frosting from heat, then stir in the shredded coconut, toasted pecans, and vanilla extract. Allow the frosting to cool completely, stirring occasionally; refrigerating can speed this step up if you’re eager to assemble.

Step 8: Frost and Decorate

Spread about one tablespoon of the coconut pecan frosting over each cooled cookie, extending nearly to the edges for full coverage. Melt the remaining semi-sweet chocolate chips and drizzle generously on top to finish these beauties with a tempting chocolate glaze.

How to Serve German Chocolate Cookies with Coconut Pecan Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, sprinkle extra toasted pecan pieces or a light dusting of cocoa powder atop the frosting drizzle. These final touches provide an inviting contrast of textures and visually enhance the rich chocolate tones.

Side Dishes

Pairing these German Chocolate Cookies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a simple glass of cold milk creates a delightful flavor balance. For a grown-up twist, a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a robust black tea complements the sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking several cookies with frosting layers in between for mini German chocolate cookie “sandwiches” or arrange them artfully on a rustic wooden platter garnished with coconut flakes and pecan halves. They also make lovely edible gifts when wrapped in parchment and tied with twine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your cooled, frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain their softness and flavor. If your kitchen is warm, keeping them in a cool spot will help preserve the frosting’s texture.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. Thaw completely before adding the coconut pecan frosting for the best experience.

Reheating

To enjoy a freshly baked taste, warm your cookies gently in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes or microwave for 10–15 seconds. Avoid overheating to keep the frosting intact and the cookie tender.

FAQs

Can I substitute the German chocolate with another type of chocolate?

Absolutely! While German chocolate adds a unique texture and flavor, you can use additional semi-sweet or milk chocolate chunks if needed. Just keep in mind it will slightly change the authentic character of this recipe.

Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substituting the all-purpose flour with a quality gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum can work well. Expect a similar texture but always monitor baking time closely.

Can I prepare the frosting ahead of time?

Definitely. The coconut pecan frosting can be made a day in advance and refrigerated. Just bring it back to room temperature and stir gently before spreading on the cookies.

What’s the best way to toast pecans for the frosting?

Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Let them cool completely before chopping to preserve their crunch.

How should I store leftovers to preserve the frosting’s texture?

Keep frosted cookies in a single layer separated by parchment paper in an airtight container to avoid smudging. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight for up to three days.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this German Chocolate Cookies with Coconut Pecan Frosting Recipe a try soon because it’s one of those special treats that feels like a warm hug in cookie form. Whether you’re sharing with friends, gifting to family, or simply indulging yourself, these cookies will deliver big flavors and sweet memories every time!

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