What kind of recipe is it?
German Chocolate Christmas Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of traditional German chocolate cake with the charm of holiday baking.
These cookies are characterized by their chewy texture, decadent chocolate, and a luscious coconut-pecan frosting that adds a festive touch.
Ideal for any holiday gathering, they’ll impress guests and satisfy sweet cravings alike.
Perfect for families, cookie exchanges, or as a special gift, these cookies are sure to bring warmth and joy to the season.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | ¾ cup |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp |
| Baking powder | ½ tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup (1 stick), softened |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Packed brown sugar | ½ cup |
| Large eggs | 2 |
| Pure vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 1 cup |
| Sweetened shredded coconut | 1 cup |
| Chopped pecans | ½ cup |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup (for frosting) |
| Milk | 2-3 tbsp (for frosting, as needed) |
This ingredient list highlights all the necessary components to create these delicious German Chocolate Christmas Cookies, ensuring you have everything on hand for successful baking!
Cooking Steps
- Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the center. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour, ¾ cup (65 g) unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tsp baking soda, ½ tsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt. Whisk together until evenly mixed.
- In another large bowl, beat ½ cup (115 g) softened unsalted butter with 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar and ½ cup (100 g) packed brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until creamy and light in color.
- Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing on medium speed until fully incorporated. Stir in 1 tsp pure vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix; the dough will be thick.
- Fold in 1 cup (175 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 cup (85 g) sweetened shredded coconut, and ½ cup (60 g) chopped pecans until evenly distributed through the dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough approximately 5 cm (2 inches) apart onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are set and the tops are slightly puffed. The cookies should have a firm appearance with a soft center and a rich chocolate aroma.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- While the cookies cool, prepare the frosting by mixing 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar with 2–3 tbsp milk (adjusting as needed) until the desired spreading consistency is achieved.
- Once the cookies are cooled, use a knife or spatula to frost the tops with the prepared frosting, allowing it to set for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy the cookies immediately or store them in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature.
Variations
- Peppermint-chocolate Twist: Add ½ tsp (2.5 ml) peppermint extract and sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top of the frosting for a festive minty flavor.
- Gluten-Free Delight: Substitute 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Vegan Version: Replace ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter with coconut oil, use flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp water), and omit eggs for a plant-based adaptation.
- Nutty Caramel Cookies: Fold in ½ cup (60 g) caramel bits along with ½ cup (60 g) chopped hazelnuts for a sweet, nutty twist on the original recipe.
Tips on plating and presentation
When you’re ready to present your German Chocolate Christmas Cookies, remember that the visual appeal can elevate your festive spirit.
Start with a beautiful, festive plate—something with a Christmas theme can set the mood. I love using a crisp white background to make the rich, chocolatey colors pop.
Arrange the cookies in a staggered pattern, so each one shines without being overshadowed. Drizzle some melted chocolate over the top for that extra touch, and sprinkle a bit of toasted coconut or chopped nuts for texture.
You can even add a few sprigs of holly or a dusting of powdered sugar around them for a wintry effect. This way, your cookies don’t just taste divine—they look irresistible, too!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
While indulging in German Chocolate Christmas Cookies, I often find that pairing them with complementary dishes can enhance the overall experience.
One of my favorite accompaniments is a rich chocolate torte, which mirrors the cookie’s decadent flavors without overwhelming them. If I’m in the mood for something fruity, a tart cranberry sauce adds a delightful contrast that balances the sweetness.
I also love serving these cookies alongside spiced nuts; the crunch and warmth elevate the cookie’s texture. On a cheeseboard, creamy brie can create an interesting flavor interplay, too.
Finally, if you’re hosting, consider including a simple vanilla ice cream; its creaminess is the perfect match for the chocolatey goodness of my cookies.
Enjoy experimenting!
What drinks can I pair it with?
To truly elevate the experience of enjoying German Chocolate Christmas Cookies, I love pairing them with a variety of drinks that complement their rich flavors.
A classic choice is a glass of cold milk, as it balances the sweetness perfectly. For something warmer, I recommend a rich hot cocoa topped with mini marshmallows, enhancing that cozy holiday vibe.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more sophisticated, a dark roast coffee brings out the chocolate’s depth.
For a festive twist, try spiced apple cider – its warm spices harmonize beautifully with the cookies.
Finally, if you’re looking for a dessert wine, a nice port or sweet Riesling can really round off this indulgent treat. Enjoy experimenting!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Freeze These German Chocolate Cookies for Later Use?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies for later use! I usually wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. They stay delicious and fresh whenever I’m ready to enjoy them again.
How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh?
These cookies stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. If you store them in an airtight container, they’ll maintain their deliciousness longer. I always recommend enjoying them within that timeframe for the best taste!
Are There Nut-Free Alternatives for This Recipe?
Yes, I’ve found nut-free alternatives! You can substitute sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for nuts in recipes. They add texture and flavor without compromising the deliciousness. Just make sure to check for additional allergens!
Can I Use Dark Chocolate Instead of Semi-Sweet?
Yes, you can definitely use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet. Just keep in mind that it’ll give a richer flavor, so adjust the sweetness if needed. I’ve enjoyed experimenting with different chocolate types in my baking!
What Are the Nutritional Values of These Cookies?
I know the nutritional values can vary, but typically, one cookie contains around 150 calories, 8 grams of fat, and 10 grams of sugar. It’s best to calculate based on exact ingredients for accuracy.
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