Welcome, chocolate lovers! If you’re here for a rich, chewy, and utterly decadent cookie recipe, then these German Chocolate Ganache Cookies will delight your taste buds. Imagine biting into a soft, chocolatey cookie topped with a luscious ganache and sprinkled with toasted pecans and coconut—a cookie inspired by classic German chocolate cake but taken to a whole new level! Get ready to make a cookie that’s a surefire hit for any occasion.
Introduction
German Chocolate Ganache Cookies bring the flavors of a beloved cake into a convenient, bite-sized treat. With origins dating back to the 1950s, German chocolate cake is known for its unique combination of chocolate, coconut, and pecans. Our cookie version maintains the iconic flavors, adding an easy-to-make, ganache-topped twist. Whether you’re a fan of German chocolate desserts or simply love cookies with a satisfying mix of textures, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.
Ingredients for Decadent German Chocolate Pecan Cookies
Cookie Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chunks
- 1 cup shredded coconut, toasted
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Ganache Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Optional Ingredients/Substitutions:
- Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds.
- Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free ganache.
How to Make Decadent German Chocolate Ganache Cookies – Step by Step
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step ensures a soft and chewy cookie.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate, Coconut, and Pecans
Fold in the dark chocolate chunks, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans until evenly distributed in the dough.
Step 6: Portion and Bake
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain slightly underdone for a gooey interior.
Step 7: Prepare the Ganache Topping
While the cookies bake, combine the sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream in a saucepan over low heat. Stir until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
Step 8: Top with Ganache and Cool
Once the cookies are out of the oven, spread a layer of the warm ganache over each cookie, then sprinkle with additional toasted coconut and pecans if desired. Allow them to cool on a wire rack.
Helpful Tips for Perfect German Chocolate Ganache Cookies
- Tip 1: Use room-temperature butter for better creaming with sugar.
- Tip 2: Toast the coconut to release its oils, enhancing the flavor and giving it a slightly crisp texture.
- Tip 3: If you prefer chewier cookies, underbake slightly and let the residual heat finish them.
Cooking Tips for the Best German Chocolate Pecan Cookies
- Equipment Hacks: A cookie scoop can help ensure uniform size, and a silicone baking mat reduces sticking.
- Ingredient Techniques: Try a mix of chopped dark chocolate and chocolate chips for a melty texture in each bite.
Serving Suggestions for German Chocolate Ganache Cookies
These cookies are ideal with a glass of cold milk, coffee, or a hot cocoa. For a special presentation, serve with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream, or drizzle with extra ganache before serving.
Nutritional Information
These cookies are rich and indulgent, providing energy and a decadent treat. Each bite brings a blend of healthy fats from pecans, fiber from coconut, and an antioxidant boost from dark chocolate.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 210
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 2g
Storage and Leftovers for German Chocolate Ganache Cookies
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat in a microwave for a few seconds to enjoy a warm, gooey cookie.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for German Chocolate Ganache Cookies
1. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, the dough can be frozen for up to three months. Portion it out, freeze, and bake directly from the freezer.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour substitute, and ensure your baking soda and cocoa powder are certified gluten-free.
3. Can I omit the coconut?
Yes, the recipe will still be delicious without coconut, but it will lack the traditional German chocolate flavor profile.
4. Can I substitute condensed milk in the ganache?
You can use a mixture of heavy cream and sugar as a substitute for a similar result.
Related Recipes for German Chocolate Lovers
For more inspiration, check out these related recipes from Optimal Recipes:
Conclusion
Thank you for following along on this delicious journey to create Decadent German Chocolate Ganache Cookies! Whether you’re looking for a unique cookie to impress at a gathering or a sweet treat to enjoy with loved ones, these cookies are sure to satisfy. We’d love to hear your thoughts and any unique twists you add to this recipe—share your baking adventures with us!
Print
German Chocolate Ganache Cookies – Decadent Treats
Description
Welcome, chocolate lovers! If you’re here for a rich, chewy, and utterly decadent cookie recipe, then these German Chocolate Ganache Cookies will delight your taste buds. Imagine biting into a soft, chocolatey cookie topped with a luscious ganache and sprinkled with toasted pecans and coconut—a cookie inspired by classic German chocolate cake but taken to a whole new level! Get ready to make a cookie that’s a surefire hit for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cookie Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chunks
- 1 cup shredded coconut, toasted
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Ganache Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Optional Ingredients/Substitutions:
- Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds.
- Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free ganache.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step ensures a soft and chewy cookie.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate, Coconut, and Pecans
Fold in the dark chocolate chunks, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans until evenly distributed in the dough.
Step 6: Portion and Bake
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain slightly underdone for a gooey interior.
Step 7: Prepare the Ganache Topping
While the cookies bake, combine the sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream in a saucepan over low heat. Stir until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
Step 8: Top with Ganache and Cool
Once the cookies are out of the oven, spread a layer of the warm ganache over each cookie, then sprinkle with additional toasted coconut and pecans if desired. Allow them to cool on a wire rack.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →
Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- Tip 1: Use room-temperature butter for better creaming with sugar.
- Tip 2: Toast the coconut to release its oils, enhancing the flavor and giving it a slightly crisp texture.
- Tip 3: If you prefer chewier cookies, underbake slightly and let the residual heat finish them.
