Name: German Chocolate Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter; 8 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped; 1¼ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed; 4 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter; 1 cup light brown sugar, packed; 3 large egg yolks; 1 cup evaporated milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1¼ cups sweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup chopped pecans

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German Chocolate Brownies bring the decadent flavors of the classic German chocolate cake into a rich, fudgy brownie form. These indulgent squares feature a dense chocolate base topped with a luscious coconut pecan frosting that’s sweet, gooey, and irresistibly nutty. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply satisfying a craving, these brownies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes two beloved desserts—fudgy brownies and German chocolate cake—and combines them into one unforgettable treat. The brownie base is deeply chocolaty and moist, while the signature topping is thick with toasted coconut and crunchy pecans. With a perfect balance of textures and a nostalgic flavor profile, these brownies are both comforting and elegant.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Brownies:

Unsalted butter
Semisweet chocolate, chopped
Granulated sugar
Light brown sugar, packed
Large eggs
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Salt

For the Coconut Pecan Topping:

Unsalted butter
Light brown sugar, packed
Egg yolks
Evaporated milk
Vanilla extract
Sweetened shredded coconut
Chopped pecans

Directions

1. Prepare the Brownies:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and semisweet chocolate, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and the melted chocolate mixture.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Sift in the flour and salt, then fold until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.

2. Make the Coconut Pecan Topping:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add brown sugar, egg yolks, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract.
Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and reaches a custard-like consistency, about 10–12 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Let the topping cool slightly until spreadable.

3. Assemble the Brownies:
Once the brownies are fully cooled, spread the coconut pecan topping evenly over the surface.
Let the topping set for at least 30 minutes before slicing into squares.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12–16 brownies
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Approximate Calories per Serving: 370 kcal

Variations

Extra chocolatey: Stir chocolate chips into the brownie batter before baking for added richness.
Toasted coconut: Toast the shredded coconut lightly before adding to the topping for deeper flavor.
Nut-free version: Omit the pecans and add more coconut or substitute with sunflower seeds.
Mini brownies: Bake in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized treats with the same flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze individual squares wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Microwaving is not recommended, as it can affect the texture of the topping. For best results, enjoy at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use unsweetened coconut?

Yes, but the flavor will be less sweet. You may wish to slightly increase the sugar in the topping to compensate.

What kind of chocolate should I use for the brownies?

Semisweet chocolate is recommended, but dark chocolate (60–70%) can be used for a richer flavor.

Can I make the topping in advance?

Yes, prepare the topping up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before spreading.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center—there should be a few moist crumbs but no raw batter.

Is evaporated milk the same as condensed milk?

No. Evaporated milk is unsweetened, while condensed milk is sweetened and thicker. Use evaporated milk for this recipe.

German Chocolate Brownies

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Author: Olivia
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12–16 squares
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These German Chocolate Brownies are the ultimate indulgence—fudgy chocolate brownies topped with a rich, gooey coconut pecan frosting. A decadent twist on the classic German chocolate cake, these bars are perfect for holidays, potlucks, or whenever a chocolate craving hits!

Instructions

Prepare the Brownies:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment.
- Melt butter and chocolate over low heat, stirring until smooth. Cool slightly.
- Whisk sugars into the chocolate mixture, then add eggs one at a time. Stir in vanilla.
- Fold in flour and salt until just combined. Pour into pan and smooth the top.
- Bake 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Cool completely.
Make the Topping:
- In a saucepan, melt butter. Add brown sugar, egg yolks, evaporated milk, and vanilla.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (10–12 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in coconut and pecans. Let cool slightly.

Assemble:
- Spread topping over cooled brownies. Let set for 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

For extra chocolatey goodness, fold in ½ cup chocolate chips to the brownie batter.
Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Chilling the brownies slightly before cutting helps with clean slices.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American