Aunt Betty’s Homestyle German Rocks

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (or a mix, depending on your preference)
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional, for added texture and flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or grease them lightly.
2. Mix the dry ingredients:
   In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until well combined.
3. Cream the butter and eggs:
   In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract using a hand mixer or a stand mixer until smooth and fluffy.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until combined. The dough should be thick.
5. Add the nuts and extras:
   Fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts, raisins (if using), and shredded coconut (if using). Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
6. Scoop the dough:
   Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. These cookies spread a little, so give them some room.
7. Bake:
   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown on the edges but still soft in the center. You don’t want them to get too crisp; they should have a chewy interior.
8. Cool:
   Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a couple of minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
9. Enjoy:
   Once cooled, these cookies will have a wonderfully chewy, nutty texture and are perfect with a warm cup of tea or coffee!

Tips:

• Flavor variations: Feel free to experiment by adding other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped apricots for a different twist.
• Storage: These cookies store well in an airtight container for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
• For extra richness: If you want a richer flavor, substitute some of the butter with coconut oil or add a handful of mini chocolate chips for a chocolatey touch.

Enjoy Aunt Betty’s Homestyle German Rocks with family or friends—they’re a perfect homemade treat!