How to Make Aunt Betty’s Homestyle German Rocks
Step 1: Cream the Base
In a large bowl, cream together the shortening (or butter) and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time until well combined.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Step 4: Bring the Dough Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Fold in the nuts and raisins if using. The dough will be thick and sticky—this is exactly how it should be.
Step 5: Shape the Rocks
Drop heaping spoonfuls of dough onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave space between each, as they spread slightly while baking.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly browned and the tops are set.
Step 7: Cool and Set
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. As they cool, they’ll firm up into their signature “rock-like” texture.
Tips for Authentic Flavor
Don’t overbake—German Rocks should be firm but not dry
The flavor improves after a day, making them ideal for storage
Store in an airtight container; they keep well for over a week
A Recipe That Feels Like Home
Aunt Betty’s Homestyle German Rocks aren’t about perfection or fancy presentation. They’re about tradition, comfort, and the kind of baking that fills a kitchen with warmth and spice. Each bite carries the feeling of an old recipe card, handwritten notes, and generations of simple, honest cooking.
If you’re looking for a timeless treat that tells a story as much as it satisfies a craving, these German Rocks are exactly the kind of recipe worth keeping. 🍪
