Delight your taste buds with these indulgent German Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies. A delightful mix of a traditional German chocolate cake and classic thumbprint cookies, these sweet treats are sure to impress. The rich, chocolaty flavor paired with a creamy coconut-pecan topping makes them truly irresistible.
The ingredients list for this recipe includes 'German Chocolate Cake Mix'. This is not a common pantry item, but can be easily found in the baking aisle of most supermarkets. It's a convenient shortcut that gives these cookies their rich chocolaty flavor. The recipe also calls for evaporated milk, which is another item you might need to pick up. It is usually located near the baking supplies or canned goods.
German Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies Ingredients
White sugar: Used to sweeten the coconut-pecan topping.
Evaporated milk: A type of condensed milk, used to create a creamy texture in the topping.
Butter: An essential baking ingredient, adding richness to the cookies and the topping.
Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of vanilla flavor to balance out the chocolate.
Egg yolks: Used in the topping for a thick and creamy texture.
Coconut: Adds a tropical flavor and texture to the topping.
Pecans: Gives a nice, nutty crunch to contrast with the soft cookies.
German chocolate cake mix: The main component of the cookies, providing their rich chocolate flavor.
One reader, Laureen Keefer says:
These German chocolate thumbprint cookies are a game-changer! The rich, gooey topping pairs perfectly with the soft, chocolatey cookie base. The recipe is easy to follow, and the end result is a delightful treat that's perfect for any occasion. I can't wait to make them again!
Key Techniques for Perfect German Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
How to prepare the topping: Combine sugar, milk, butter, vanilla, and egg yolk in a heavy 4-cup saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 10 to 13 minutes until thickened and bubbly, stirring frequently. Stir in coconut and pecans, then remove from heat and cool to room temperature. Reserve 1¼ cups of the topping mixture and set aside.
How to make the cookie dough: In a large bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and the remaining topping mixture. Stir by hand until thoroughly moistened. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.
How to bake the cookies: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Using a finger, make an indentation in the center of each ball and fill each indentation with ½ teaspoon of reserved topping. Bake for 10 to 13 minutes in the preheated oven. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How To Make German Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
These German chocolate thumbprint cookies serve delightfully chewy treats made with chocolate cake mix dough that are filled with creamy nuts and coconuts.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Topping:
- 1white sugar
- 1cupevaporated milk
- ½cupbutter
- 1tspvanilla extract
- 3egg yolks,beaten
- 1½cupsflaked coconut
- 1½cupspecans,chopped
For Cookie:
- 18.25ozgerman chocolate cake mix,(1 package)
- ⅓cupbutter,melted
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Topping:
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In a heavy 4-cup saucepan, combine the sugar, milk, butter, vanilla, and egg yolk. Blend well.
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Cook over medium heat for 10 to 13 minutes or until thickened and bubbly. Stir frequently.
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Stir in the coconut and pecans. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature. Reserve 1¼ cups of the topping mixture and set aside.
Cookie:
-
In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and the remaining topping mixture. Stir by hand until thoroughly moistened.
-
Shape the dough into 1-inch balls. Place 2-inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.
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Using a finger, make an indention in center of each ball. Fill each indention with ½ teaspoon of reserved topping.
-
Bake for 10 to 13 minutes in the preheated oven.
-
Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Serve and enjoy.
Nutrition
- Calories: 85.95kcal
- Fat: 5.78g
- Saturated Fat: 2.78g
- Trans Fat: 0.11g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.94g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.70g
- Carbohydrates: 8.36g
- Fiber: 0.60g
- Sugar: 4.55g
- Protein: 1.07g
- Cholesterol: 15.30mg
- Sodium: 78.05mg
- Calcium: 30.91mg
- Potassium: 44.79mg
- Iron: 0.40mg
- Vitamin A: 27.02µg
- Vitamin C: 0.17mg
Crucial Technique Tip for German Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
When making the thumbprint cookies, ensure to press the center of the cookie gently but firmly to create a deep enough well for the topping. If the well is too shallow, the topping may overflow during baking, resulting in a mess. Also, allow the topping to cool to room temperature before adding it to the cookies. This will prevent the cookies from becoming too soft and losing their shape.
Time-Saving Tips for Making German Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
Prep ahead: Prepare the topping and cookie dough the day before and store them in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of baking.
Use a cookie scoop: Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough, ensuring uniform cookie sizes and quicker preparation.
Organize ingredients: Measure and organize all the ingredients before starting the recipe to streamline the process.
Bake in batches: If your oven space is limited, bake the cookies in batches to ensure even cooking and save time.
Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and bowls while the cookies are baking to minimize cleanup time afterward.
Substitute Ingredients For German Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
white sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can add a rich, caramel-like flavor to the topping, and it is a natural sweetener that can be a healthier alternative.
evaporated milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can provide a creamy texture and a hint of coconut flavor to the topping, making it a suitable dairy-free alternative.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a subtle coconut flavor to the topping, and it is a vegan-friendly option for those avoiding dairy products.
german chocolate cake mix - Substitute with cocoa powder and sugar: A mixture of cocoa powder and sugar can replicate the chocolate flavor and sweetness of the cake mix, allowing for a homemade alternative.
butter - Substitute with vegan butter: Vegan butter can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a similar richness and texture to the cookie dough.
Presentation Ideas for German Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
Elevate the plating: When presenting the cookies, ensure that the plating is elegant and sophisticated. Use a minimalist approach to showcase the cookies, allowing their natural beauty to shine through.
Incorporate contrast: Create visual interest by incorporating contrasting elements on the plate. Consider using a sleek, modern plate to juxtapose the rustic charm of the cookies.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space to draw attention to the cookies. Allow ample space around the cookies to create a sense of balance and harmony on the plate.
Highlight the topping: Showcase the luscious topping of coconut and pecans by delicately drizzling a fine thread of caramel over the cookies, adding a touch of artistry to the presentation.
Garnish with edible flowers: Introduce a touch of elegance by garnishing the plate with delicate, edible flowers that complement the flavors of the cookies, adding a pop of color and sophistication.
Emphasize precision: Pay attention to the placement of each cookie on the plate, ensuring that they are aligned with precision and care, reflecting the dedication and craftsmanship that went into creating them.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For a luxurious touch, consider adding a delicate, edible gold leaf to the plate, elevating the presentation and adding a hint of opulence to the overall aesthetic.
Consider the vessel: Select a refined and stylish vessel to present the cookies, such as a sleek, modern dessert plate or a chic, artisanal platter, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Thumbprint Cookies
Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making cookie dough, grinding nuts, and preparing the topping for the German chocolate thumbprint cookies.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the ingredients for the cookie dough and the topping. It's where you'll mix the German chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and topping mixture to create the cookie dough.
Saucepan: A heavy 4-cup saucepan is used to cook the topping mixture for the German chocolate thumbprint cookies. It's where you'll combine the sugar, milk, butter, vanilla, and egg yolk and cook it until thickened and bubbly.
Cookie sheet: A cookie sheet is necessary for baking the cookies. It provides a flat, even surface for the cookies to bake and ensures they don't stick to the pan.
Wire rack: A wire rack is used for cooling the cookies after they are baked. It allows air to circulate around the cookies, preventing them from becoming soggy as they cool.
Storing and Freezing German Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for German chocolate thumbprint cookies:
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or sticking together.
- Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Separate layers with wax paper or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookies:
- Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
- Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating layers with wax paper or parchment paper.
- Label the container with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To thaw frozen cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Do not microwave or heat them, as this may cause the chocolate and coconut topping to melt or become soggy.
- If you prefer a crisper texture after freezing, you can refresh the thawed cookies in a preheated 325°F (165°C) oven for 5-7 minutes before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover German Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover german chocolate thumbprint cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and the chocolate is melted. This method will help restore the cookies' crisp texture and melt the chocolate filling.
For a quicker option, microwave the cookies on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat them, as the chocolate filling can become too hot and lose its texture. Microwaving is best for a small batch of cookies or when you're short on time.
If you prefer a softer texture, place the cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The moisture from the bread will transfer to the cookies, making them softer. Leave them at room temperature for a few hours or overnight before enjoying.
For a crispy exterior and a warm, gooey center, reheat the cookies in a skillet over medium-low heat. Place the cookies in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the chocolate filling is melted and the cookies are heated through. This method works best for a small batch of cookies.
If you have a toaster oven, you can reheat the cookies in it for a quick and easy solution. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies on the toaster oven tray. Heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the cookies are warmed through and the chocolate is melted.
Interesting Fact About German Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
The German Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies recipe is a delightful combination of rich German chocolate cake mix, coconut, and pecans. These cookies are a delicious treat that can be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a sweet snack. They offer a unique twist on traditional thumbprint cookies, incorporating the flavors of a classic German chocolate cake. The topping, made with sugar, evaporated milk, and butter, adds a creamy and nutty texture to the cookies. These cookies are a perfect choice for anyone with a sweet tooth and are sure to be a hit at any gathering or event.
Is Making German Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?
This German chocolate thumbprint cookies recipe offers a moderate cost-effectiveness for a household. The ingredients, such as coconut and pecans, can be slightly pricey, but the yield of cookies justifies the cost. The rich and indulgent flavor makes it a delightful treat for special occasions. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20. Overall Verdict: 8/10
Are German Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?
The German chocolate thumbprint cookie recipe is a decadent treat, but it's not the healthiest option out there. The recipe is high in sugar, fat, and calories, with ingredients like white sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and a German chocolate cake mix. While the pecans and coconut do provide some nutritional value, they're overshadowed by the less healthy components.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the topping and replace some of it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
- Use a low-fat evaporated milk or a plant-based milk alternative to cut down on the saturated fat content
- Opt for a whole wheat or gluten-free cake mix to increase the fiber content and reduce the refined flour
- Decrease the amount of butter used in both the topping and the cookie dough, or replace it with a healthier fat like coconut oil
- Incorporate more nuts and coconut to boost the protein, fiber, and healthy fat content, while reducing the overall amount of cookie dough per serving
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced treat that still satisfies your sweet tooth without completely derailing your healthy eating habits. Remember, moderation is key, and it's okay to indulge in a less-than-healthy treat every once in a while, as long as it's part of an overall balanced diet.
Editor's Opinion on German Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
The German chocolate thumbprint cookies recipe is a delightful combination of rich, chocolatey flavors and a decadent coconut-pecan topping. The cookie dough, made from a German chocolate cake mix, creates a soft and chewy base that perfectly complements the sweet and nutty topping. The process of creating the thumbprint and filling it with the reserved topping adds a fun and interactive element to the baking process. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional thumbprint cookies and is sure to impress with its unique and delicious flavors.
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Why trust this German Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies Recipe:
This recipe is a trusted classic, featuring the irresistible combination of German chocolate and pecans. The topping is a luscious blend of coconut and pecans, creating a rich and indulgent flavor. The use of evaporated milk and butter ensures a creamy and decadent texture. With the convenience of a cake mix, this recipe offers a hassle-free baking experience. The meticulous instructions guarantee a perfect result every time. Trust in the time-honored tradition of German chocolate desserts and savor the delightful flavors of this beloved treat.
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