German Rocks are classic old-world cookies that feel like something straight from a grandmother’s kitchen. They’re crunchy, lightly spiced, full of nuts and dried fruit, and perfect with a cup of coffee or tea. “Rocks” refers to their rustic, rough shape — not their texture. Inside, they’re tender and full of flavor.
This is the kind of recipe that gets passed down through families, especially around holidays. Aunt Betty’s version is simple, warm, and comforting.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves or nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup (120 g) chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 cup (150 g) raisins or chopped dates
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and prepare
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream butter and sugar
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add eggs and vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Mix dry ingredients
In another bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
Step 5: Combine everything
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined.
Step 6: Add nuts and fruit
Fold in the chopped nuts and raisins or dates.
Step 7: Drop and bake
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them apart. They don’t need to look perfect.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are golden and the tops look set.
Step 8: Cool
Let the cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then move to a rack to cool completely.
Serving Ideas
Serve German Rocks with black coffee, spiced tea, or warm milk. They’re also great on holiday cookie platters or as a cozy afternoon snack.
Why This Recipe Works
The mix of spices, nuts, and dried fruit gives depth and texture. These cookies are not overly sweet, making them perfect for grown-up tastes and long coffee breaks.
Final Thoughts
Aunt Betty’s Homestyle German Rocks are rustic, comforting, and full of old-fashioned charm. They’re the kind of cookie that feels like a memory — simple, warm, and honest.
Bake them once, and they’ll become a tradition in your kitchen too.
Q&A – German Rocks Cookies
Q: Can I use different nuts?
Yes. Almonds, hazelnuts, or a nut mix work great.
Q: Can I use other dried fruits?
Absolutely. Try chopped apricots, cranberries, or figs.
Q: How long do they keep?
Up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Q: Can I freeze the dough?
Yes. Scoop dough balls and freeze for up to 2 months.