If you crave a decadent chocolate treat that takes classic brownies to the next level, you are in for a real delight with these German Chocolate Brownies. Fudgy, ultra-chocolatey layers are topped with that legendary coconut-pecan frosting we all know and love, making these brownies a true showstopper for bake sales, family gatherings, or whenever you want to spoil yourself. The rich chocolate base harmonizes perfectly with the sweet, nutty topping, delivering a combination that’s truly irresistible. Trust me, once you bake a pan of these, you’ll never look at traditional brownies the same way again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list might seem long, but don’t be intimidated—each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect bite. From the cocoa-rich batter to the luscious coconut-pecan topping, these staples work together for an unbeatable texture and flavor.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1 cup): Using melted butter ensures your brownies come out wonderfully fudgy rather than cakey.
- Granulated sugar (2 cups for brownies, 1 cup for frosting): Sweetens the brownies and the frosting just right, creating a caramel undertone in the topping.
- Large eggs (4 for brownies, 3 yolks for frosting): Provide structure and richness, making the brownies chewy and the frosting silky-smooth.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp for brownies, 1 tsp for frosting): Rounds out the chocolate and coconut flavors with a lovely warmth.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): Binds everything together while keeping the texture dense and moist.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1 cup): Delivers a deep, intense chocolate flavor that stands up to the frosting.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances all the sweetness and brightens the chocolate.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Studded throughout for extra gooey chocolate pockets in every bite.
- Evaporated milk (1 cup): Gives the frosting its signature creamy texture, holding the coconut and pecans together.
- Unsalted butter for frosting (1/2 cup): Adds richness and helps create a glossy, luxurious topping.
- Sweetened shredded coconut (1 1/2 cups): Brings chewy texture and tropical sweetness to the frosting.
- Chopped pecans (1 cup): The nutty crunch in the frosting is absolutely essential for the classic German Chocolate taste.
How to Make German Chocolate Brownies
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This makes both the baking and slicing process so much easier, and your brownies will lift out like a dream.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until the mixture looks glossy and smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then mix well to ensure everything is beautifully combined. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, stirring gently just until the dry ingredients disappear. Fold in those irresistible chocolate chips for extra richness.
Step 3: Bake the Brownies
Pour your brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes; you’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. You don’t want to overbake, as this keeps the brownies ultra-fudgy, just how German Chocolate Brownies should be!
Step 4: Prepare the Coconut-Pecan Frosting
While the brownies are baking, grab a medium saucepan. Combine the evaporated milk, 1 cup sugar, egg yolks, and 1/2 cup butter over medium heat. Stir constantly (don’t walk away!) until the mixture thickens to a creamy custard, about 10 to 12 minutes. Once it’s thick, remove from heat and stir in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Let the frosting cool to a spreadable consistency.
Step 5: Frost and Finish
After the brownies have cooled completely, spread the coconut-pecan frosting evenly on top. Allow everything to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then slice into squares and admire your handiwork. Each bite of these German Chocolate Brownies delivers a layer of fudgy chocolate, crowned with sweet, nutty, coconut bliss!
How to Serve German Chocolate Brownies
Garnishes
Dress up each square with a little extra sprinkle of toasted coconut or a few whole pecans on top. You could even drizzle some dark chocolate for an elegant touch, or go for a dusting of cocoa powder if you’re feeling extra fancy.
Side Dishes
These brownies are rich on their own, but if you want to make dessert truly unforgettable, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. Fresh berries on the side can add a refreshing, tangy note to balance out the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving these at a party, try cutting the German Chocolate Brownies into bite-sized squares and arranging them on a dessert platter. For a more elegant occasion, use a round biscuit cutter for brownie “coins” and pipe on little mounds of frosting. Individual ramekins can also turn your brownies into a plated dessert—add a quenelle of ice cream and a pecan tuile for a restaurant-worthy treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The key is to ensure the coconut-pecan topping doesn’t dry out, so consider placing a piece of wax paper between the layers if you’re stacking them.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze German Chocolate Brownies for longer storage. Just wrap the unsliced slab tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before slicing and serving. For frosted, cut brownies, separate layers with parchment before freezing to prevent sticking.
Reheating
If you like your brownies warm and gooey (who doesn’t?), microwave individual pieces for about 10-15 seconds. The chocolate chips get melty and the frosting becomes even more luscious. Just take care not to overheat, as the frosting can become runny with too much warmth.
FAQs
Can I make these brownies without nuts?
Absolutely! If you have a nut allergy or just prefer brownies without pecans, feel free to omit them from the frosting. The coconut will still deliver plenty of texture and a classic German Chocolate flavor.
What’s the difference between German Chocolate Brownies and regular brownies?
The secret is all in the topping! Regular brownies focus purely on chocolate, while German Chocolate Brownies are crowned with a dreamy coconut-pecan custard frosting that really sets them apart in taste and texture.
Can I use a different type Dessert
Of course! While semi-sweet chocolate chips are a staple, you can swap in dark or milk chocolate chips, or even white chocolate for a twist. Just remember, each type will slightly change the sweetness and richness of your brownies.
How do I toast the pecans and coconut?
Toasting is a wonderful way to amplify flavor. Simply spread pecans and coconut on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, stirring once, until golden and fragrant. Let them cool before adding to your frosting.
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the coconut-pecan frosting a day in advance. Store it in the fridge in an airtight container, then let it come to room temperature and give it a good stir before spreading it over your brownies.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tasted the magic of German Chocolate Brownies, you’re in for a treat that’s both nostalgic and impossible to resist. The mingling of fudgy chocolate and the classic coconut-pecan topping is pure bliss in every bite. Give this recipe a try and see why everyone falls in love at first bite!
Print
German Chocolate Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich, fudgy goodness of these German Chocolate Brownies. A decadent dessert that combines a classic brownie base with a luscious coconut-pecan frosting.
Ingredients
Brownies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Frosting:
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Mix Brownie Batter: Whisk melted butter and sugar, add eggs and vanilla. Sift in flour, cocoa, salt, and fold in chocolate chips. Pour into pan and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Prepare Frosting: Cook evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter until thickened. Stir in coconut, pecans, and vanilla. Spread over cooled brownies.
- Serve: Let frosting set before cutting into squares.
Notes
- You can toast the pecans and coconut for added flavor depth.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
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