Aunt Betty’s Homestyle German Rocks

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• Flour
• Baking soda
• Cinnamon
• Cloves
• Nutmeg
• Salt

Mixing the spices evenly at this stage ensures every cookie has balanced flavor.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use a spoon or mixer to cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture looks fluffy and lighter in color. This step is important—it helps create a tender texture and distributes sweetness evenly.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg until fully incorporated, then stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture should look smooth and slightly glossy.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing—this keeps the cookies from becoming tough.

Step 6: Fold in Nuts and Fruit

Gently fold in the chopped nuts and raisins. The dough will be thick and chunky, which is exactly what you want for German Rocks.

Step 7: Shape the “Rocks”

Using a tablespoon or small scoop, drop rough mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Do not flatten them—the rustic shape is part of their charm.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and lightly browned around the edges. The centers should still feel slightly soft.

Step 9: Cool Properly

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. As they cool, their flavor deepens and their texture settles.

Tips From Aunt Betty’s Kitchen

• For deeper flavor: Let the dough rest for 30 minutes before baking.
• For softer cookies: Slightly underbake and cool completely before storing.
• For a traditional touch: Add a pinch of ground allspice or a tablespoon of molasses.
• For storage: Keep in an airtight container; they taste even better after a day or two.

Serving and Storing

Aunt Betty’s Homestyle German Rocks are perfect with:

• Hot tea or coffee
• A glass of milk
• As part of a holiday cookie tray

They store well at room temperature for up to a week and can be frozen for longer keeping.

A Cookie With Heart and History

German Rocks aren’t about perfection—they’re about warmth, tradition, and simple ingredients coming together to make something comforting and memorable. Aunt Betty’s homestyle method honors that spirit, giving you a cookie that feels handmade, timeless, and full of soul.

Once you make them, don’t be surprised if they become a family favorite—just like they were in Aunt Betty’s kitchen. 🍪