Aunt Betty’s Homestyle German Rocks

1. Cream the Butter & Sugars

In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (~2–3 mins).
Beat in egg and vanilla (and molasses, if using).

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.

3. Combine & Chill

Gradually mix dry into wet until just combined.
If dough is soft, chill 15–30 minutes (especially in warm kitchens).

4. Scoop & Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment.
Scoop dough by tablespoonfuls—roll into balls (they don’t spread much).
Place 2" apart on sheets.
Bake 12–14 minutes, until edges are set and centers look slightly soft.
Cool on pan 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.

What Makes Them “German”?

While not from modern Germany, these cookies descend from Pennsylvania Dutch (German) settlers who adapted Old World recipes with New World ingredients. The name “German Rocks” likely comes from their dense, rustic texture—a contrast to airy, cakey cookies. Similar treats go by names like “Amish Sugar Cookies” or “Shoofly Cookie Bites.”

Serving Suggestions

☕ Classic pairing: With black coffee or spiced chai
🥛 Childhood favorite: Dipped in cold milk
🍯 Extra comfort: Drizzled with honey or served with apple butter
🎁 Gift idea: Pack in a mason jar with a ribbon and cinnamon stick

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Fridge: Dough keeps up to 3 days—scoop and bake as needed.
Freeze: Scoop dough balls, freeze on tray, then bag—bake from frozen (+1–2 mins).
Baked cookies: Store in airtight container up to 7–10 days (they stay moist!).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use 1:1 GF flour blend (like Bob’s Red Mill).

Q: No molasses?
A: Skip it—but it adds authentic depth. Dark corn syrup works in a pinch.

Q: Can I add nuts or raisins?
A: Traditionally, no—but feel free! Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or raisins.

Q: Why are they so dense?
A: That’s the point! Low leavening + high butter = rich, “rock-like” crumb.

❤️ The Heart of Aunt Betty’s Recipe

These cookies aren’t fancy—but they’re full of history and heart. They’re what you bake when you want to feed people well without pretense, or when you need a taste of simpler times.

So cream that butter, stir in that cinnamon, and bake with the kind of care Aunt Betty would. Because the best cookies aren’t perfect—they’re homemade, humble, and shared with love.