Crumbl German Chocolate Cake Cookies: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Dessert

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What happens when you combine the luxurious flavors of German Chocolate Cake with the soft, oversized Crumbl cookie trend? Magic! These Crumbl German Chocolate Cake Cookies are rich, indulgent, and packed with all the classic elements you love: a chewy chocolate cookie base, topped with creamy coconut-pecan frosting, and finished with a drizzle of chocolate ganache.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves bakery-style cookies or the comforting taste of German Chocolate Cake but wants to enjoy it in a handheld form. 

These cookies are great for birthdays, parties, or even a cozy night in. Let’s dive into this delightful mashup of flavors and textures!

Tools You'll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to bake these bakery-style cookies:

Mixing bowls (at least two)

Hand mixer or stand mixer

Measuring cups and spoons

Baking sheets

Parchment paper

Saucepan (for frosting)

Cookie scoop (for even portions)

Cooling rack

Servings, Prep, and Bake Time

Serves: 12 large cookies

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Bake Time: 12-14 minutes

Cooling Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cookie Base:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter

3 large egg yolks, beaten

1 cup evaporated milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

1 cup chopped pecans

For the Chocolate Ganache (Optional but Recommended):

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1/4 cup heavy cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).

Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Shape the Dough: Use a cookie scoop to portion out large dough balls (about 3 tablespoons each). Roll them into smooth balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.

Bake: Bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still slightly soft. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

Cook the Base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, butter, egg yolks, and evaporated milk. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 8-10 minutes).

Add Flavor and Texture: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Let the frosting cool to room temperature before topping the cookies.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache (Optional)

Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy cream until steaming (but not boiling).

Melt the Chocolate: Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly so it thickens enough for drizzling.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

Frost the Cookies: Spoon a generous dollop of coconut-pecan frosting onto each cooled cookie and spread it evenly with a spoon or offset spatula.

Drizzle with Ganache: Use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle chocolate ganache over the frosted cookies for an elegant finish.

Set and Serve: Allow the cookies to set for 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy the chewy chocolate cookie with the creamy frosting in every bite!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overbaking the Cookies: These cookies should remain soft and chewy in the center. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are set.

Skipping Cooling Time: Adding frosting to warm cookies will cause it to melt and slide off. Be patient!

Rushing the Frosting: The coconut-pecan frosting needs to cook until thickened, or it won’t hold its shape on the cookies. Stir constantly to avoid burning.

Using Unsweetened Coconut: Sweetened coconut is key to achieving the classic flavor of German Chocolate Cake.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! The cookie dough can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, and bake as directed. You can also freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months and bake directly from frozen—just add 1-2 minutes to the bake time.

2. Can I substitute other nuts for pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds make great substitutes if you don’t have pecans on hand.

3. How do I store the finished cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week, but let them come to room temperature before serving.

4. Can I skip the ganache drizzle?

Of course! While the ganache adds a luxurious touch, the cookies are still incredibly delicious without it.

5. Can I make these cookies smaller?

Yes, but note that smaller cookies will bake faster. Adjust the bake time to about 8-10 minutes and keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.

Conclusion

Crumbl German Chocolate Cake Cookies are the ultimate treat for dessert lovers, combining the rich flavors of a classic cake with the soft, chewy texture of a cookie. 

Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to impress. 

With their decadent frosting, chocolate drizzle, and bakery-style presentation, they’re as fun to make as they are to eat.

So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake the ultimate indulgence!