German Chocolate Brownies Recipe

If you’re craving deep, chocolatey richness crowned with a truly swoon-worthy coconut-pecan topping, look no further than this German Chocolate Brownies Recipe. It’s a delightful collision of ultra-fudgy brownies and classic German chocolate cake flavors, and honestly, it might just steal the spotlight at your next gathering. Every bite delivers a satisfyingly dense, chocolate foundation paired with that dreamy, toasty sweet topping—so irresistible that making a double batch is totally justified!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Despite the impressive flavor and show-stopping layers, this German Chocolate Brownies Recipe keeps things delightfully straightforward. Each ingredient plays a starring role, from the rich butter to the nutty pecans, ensuring the brownies turn out ultra-decadent and uniquely delicious.

• Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted): Brings buttery richness and binds everything for a fudge-like crumb.
• Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Adds classic sweetness and helps create that signature crackly brownie top.
• Large eggs (2): Provide structure and richness, making the brownies lush and chewy.
• Water (2 tablespoons): Ensures the batter stays moist and smooth.
• Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Lends warmth and deepens the chocolate flavor profile.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (⅔ cup): Delivers bold chocolate flavor and an irresistibly dark hue.
• Powdered sugar (½ cup): Boosts fudginess while keeping the crumb tender.
• All-purpose flour (¾ cup): Just enough to give these brownies structure without taking away from the fudginess.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances and sharpens every sweet bite.
• Chocolate chips (½ cup): Add melty pockets of extra chocolate oomph.
• Evaporated milk, full fat (⅔ cup): Essential for a rich, creamy topping texture.
• Brown sugar, packed (⅔ cup): Infuses caramel sweetness into the coconut-pecan topping.
• Egg yolks (2 large): Thicken and enrich the decadent topping.
• Unsalted butter, cut into pieces (5 tablespoons): Melts into the topping, making it silky and luscious.
• Salt, a couple pinches: Heightens all those toasty, nutty topping flavors.
• Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A dash of warmth to round out the topping.
• Pecans, finely chopped (⅔ cup): Add a toasty crunch that makes every bite addictive.
• Sweetened shredded coconut (1⅔ cups, roughly chopped): Classic, chewy sweetness that completes the topping.
• Flaky sea salt (optional): A pinch on top takes the flavor up an extra notch—highly recommended!

How to Make German Chocolate Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9 square pan with parchment paper or foil, making sure to leave an overhang on two sides; trust me, this “sling” is a lifesaver for getting out flawless brownies later. Give the lining a light greasing, because every brownie (and every crumb) counts.

Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the warm, melted butter and granulated sugar for a full minute—don’t skimp, this creates that crinkly top! Add the eggs, water, and vanilla extract; whisk again vigorously for another 30 seconds, then set that whisk aside.

Step 3: Mix in the Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, all-purpose flour, and salt over the wet mixture. Grab a spatula or wooden spoon and fold everything together gently but thoroughly, until the batter is glossy and combined. Stir in the chocolate chips, which will melt slightly and create lovely little pools of chocolate.

Step 4: Bake the Brownies

Pour the luscious batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 18-20 minutes—peek at the center with a toothpick; you want moist crumbs, not raw batter. Try to resist overbaking, because fudgy is always better! Let the brownies cool in the pan on a rack before adding the topping.

Step 5: Make the Coconut-Pecan Topping

Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the evaporated milk, brown sugar, egg yolks, butter, and salt. Whisk constantly (and don’t forget the corners of the pan!) until it simmers. Keep it simmering for 3-4 minutes, whisking often, until the sugar is dissolved and it slightly thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla, pecans, and coconut until well blended.

Step 6: Top and Finish

Spoon the creamy coconut-pecan goodness over your cooled brownies, spreading it evenly. If you’re into a sweet-salty twist, shower the top with flaky sea salt. Let the topping set—pop the pan in the fridge if you’re impatient (I always am). Slice into squares and marvel at your masterpiece.

How to Serve German Chocolate Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of flaky sea salt highlights the rich chocolate and keeps each bite super interesting. For a bakery-style flourish, you can scatter on a few extra chopped pecans or a light dusting of powdered sugar. Even a drizzle of melted chocolate will take these brownies to showstopper status!

Side Dishes

These decadent bars shine alongside a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream, balancing their richness with something cool and creamy. A dollop of barely sweetened whipped cream or even a handful of tart, juicy berries would make a fresh contrast, turning dessert into a true event.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the brownies into mini squares for party platters—they’re bite-sized bliss! Stack slices, parfait-style, in clear glasses with layers of whipped cream for a modern twist. Or, for celebration-worthy flair, serve one brownie on a pretty plate with a quenelle of ice cream, a chocolate drizzle, and a pecan on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled and sliced, store your German Chocolate Brownies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days; the topping actually gets even more flavorful after a day! If your kitchen is warm or humid, consider storing them in the fridge for best freshness.

Freezing

To freeze, place individual brownies between layers of parchment in an airtight container or zip-top bag. They freeze beautifully for up to three months—just bring them to room temperature before enjoying so the topping softens up and recaptures its gooey charm.

Reheating

For a warm, bakery-fresh treat, pop a brownie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or place several on a lined baking sheet in a 300°F oven for about five minutes. The coconut-pecan topping will gently soften, melting into the fudgy brownie base—seriously tempting!

FAQs

Can I use a boxed brownie mix for the German Chocolate Brownies Recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re in a time crunch, you can swap in your favorite boxed brownie mix. Just prepare as directed and focus on making the homemade coconut-pecan topping to give them that signature flair.

What’s the difference between German chocolate and regular chocolate?

German chocolate traditionally refers to a mild, sweeter dark baking chocolate that pairs perfectly with coconut-pecan frosting. For this recipe, unsweetened cocoa powder provides a richer, bolder chocolate flavor than classic German chocolate cake, but the flavor combo still shines!

Can I make this German Chocolate Brownies Recipe nut-free?

Definitely! If you or someone you’re baking for has a nut allergy, simply skip the pecans in the topping or use toasted sunflower seeds or pepitas instead for a little crunch and visual appeal.

How can I get perfectly clean brownie slices?

Let the brownies and topping cool completely before cutting—they’re much easier to slice when firm. For super-clean edges, run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe dry, then slice and repeat between cuts.

Can I double the German Chocolate Brownies Recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Keep an eye on the bake time; you may need to add 3-5 extra minutes. These brownies are always a hit whenever you need to feed a chocolate-loving crowd.

Final Thoughts

If you adore all things chocolate and crave something a little extra-special, I can’t recommend this German Chocolate Brownies Recipe enough. It’s the kind of treat that makes everyone ask for seconds (and the recipe!). Dive in, bake a batch, and get ready for some serious brownie bliss—your kitchen is about to smell heavenly.

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