Aunt Betty’s Homestyle German Rocks

Aunt Betty’s Homestyle German Rocks

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about old-fashioned cookies that fill the kitchen with the scent of warm spices and toasted nuts. Aunt Betty’s Homestyle German Rocks are one of those treasured recipes—rugged in appearance, rich in flavor, and packed with hearty ingredients. These classic drop cookies are known for their craggy, “rock-like” shape and their dense, chewy texture loaded with fruits, nuts, and spice.

This detailed guide will walk you step by step through making these delightful old-world treats, just like Aunt Betty used to bake.

What Are German Rocks?

German Rocks are traditional spice cookies believed to have roots in old European baking traditions. Unlike delicate tea cookies, these are hearty, rustic, and generously filled with raisins, dates, and chopped nuts. Their rough, uneven tops give them the appearance of little “rocks,” hence the name.

They’re perfect for holidays, tea time, or anytime you crave something comforting and homemade.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Aunt Betty’s Homestyle German Rocks, gather the following:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups brown sugar (packed)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup molasses
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup chopped dates

Optional additions:

• ½ cup shredded coconut
• ½ cup candied cherries (chopped)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare Your Kitchen

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking.

Measure all ingredients ahead of time. Having everything ready makes the mixing process smooth and efficient.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl:

1. Add the softened butter and brown sugar.
2. Beat together until light and fluffy.

This step is important—it creates air pockets in the dough, helping the cookies bake evenly and maintain a soft texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Molasses

1. Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
2. Pour in the molasses and blend until fully combined.

The molasses gives these cookies their deep color and rich, slightly smoky sweetness.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:

• Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.

Mixing the dry ingredients separately ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Gradually Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture.

• Mix on low speed.
• Stir just until combined.
• Avoid overmixing, which can make cookies tough.

The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.

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