(Old-Fashioned Spiced Fruit & Nut Cookies)**
We sure love a recipe with a back story, and today’s treat is exactly that. German Rocks come from the beloved Bavarian Inn in Frankenmuth, Michigan — a charming Bavarian-themed town famous for its year-round Christmas spirit. These hearty cookies are packed with warm spices, dried fruit, and crunchy nuts, making them the perfect little bites to keep you energized through the busy holiday season. Whether you’re recreating a cherished Midwestern favorite or discovering German Rocks for the first time, this simple, rustic cookie hits all the right notes!
Ingredients
1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped dates
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1 cup raisins (optional but traditional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Add Fruit & Nuts
- Fold in the chopped dates, nuts, and raisins (if using). The dough will be thick and chunky — that’s perfect!
- Shape & Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Drop dough by rounded tablespoons (or scoop balls, as in your photo) onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges.
10. Allow to cool on a wire rack.
Tips for Best Results
Toasting the nuts lightly enhances the flavor.
If the dough feels too dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk.
These cookies keep well in a tin for several days — they taste even better the next day.