This Easy and Authentic German Chocolate Brownie recipe combines the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the decadent, nutty, and coconut-infused topping of a traditional German chocolate cake. These brownies are the perfect mix of gooey chocolate and caramelized coconut-pecan goodness, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Fudgy – The brownies are moist and loaded with deep chocolate flavor.
- Classic German Chocolate Flavor – The caramelized coconut-pecan topping adds a traditional touch.
- Simple and Easy – Made with pantry-friendly ingredients and requires no special skills.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for parties, potlucks, or a sweet family treat.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – These brownies taste even better the next day!
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Brownies:
- Unsalted butter
- Semi-sweet chocolate or dark chocolate chips
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Cocoa powder
- Baking powder
- Salt
For the German Chocolate Topping:
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Egg yolks
- Unsalted butter
- Brown sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Shredded coconut
- Chopped pecans
Directions
Make the Brownies:
- Preheat the Oven – Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt the Chocolate and Butter – In a microwave-safe bowl, melt butter and chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Combine with Chocolate Mixture – Slowly pour the melted chocolate into the sugar mixture, whisking continuously.
- Add Dry Ingredients – Sift in flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold until just combined.
- Bake the Brownies – Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool.
Make the German Chocolate Topping:
- Prepare the Topping – In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, butter, and brown sugar. Stir constantly until thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Add Coconut and Pecans – Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Let cool slightly.
- Assemble the Brownies – Spread the coconut-pecan topping evenly over the cooled brownies.
- Slice and Serve – Cut into squares and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 brownies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
- Nut-Free Option – Omit pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds for crunch.
- Extra Chocolatey – Stir in chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
- Gluten-Free Version – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
- Cheesecake Swirl – Add a layer of sweetened cream cheese mixture before baking.
- Salted Caramel Twist – Drizzle salted caramel over the coconut topping for extra indulgence.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration – Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing – Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating – Microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften.
FAQs
1. Can I use a brownie mix instead of making them from scratch?
Yes! Use a boxed brownie mix and follow the package instructions, then add the homemade German chocolate topping.
2. How do I make the brownies extra fudgy?
Use an extra egg yolk and slightly underbake them for a gooier texture.
3. Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes, but sweetened coconut gives a more traditional flavor. If using unsweetened, add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar.
4. What’s the best way to cut brownies neatly?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Chilling the brownies first also helps.
5. Can I make the topping ahead of time?
Yes! Store the topping in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat slightly before spreading.
6. Do I have to toast the pecans?
Toasting pecans enhances their flavor, but it’s optional. Bake them at 350°F for 5 minutes for extra nuttiness.
7. Can I use coconut milk instead of condensed milk?
No, sweetened condensed milk is necessary for the caramel-like consistency.
8. What type of chocolate is best for the brownies?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa) works best for rich flavor.
9. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, bake in a 9×13-inch pan and increase the baking time to 35-40 minutes.
10. How do I make these brownies less sweet?
Reduce the sugar in the brownie batter slightly, or use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet.
Conclusion
These Easy and Authentic German Chocolate Brownies bring together the best of both worlds—deep, fudgy chocolate and a rich, nutty coconut topping. Whether for a party, bake sale, or just a sweet treat, these brownies are sure to impress. Give them a try and enjoy a taste of German chocolate cake in every bite!
Print
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German-American
Description
These Easy and Authentic German Chocolate Brownies are an irresistible blend of rich, fudgy chocolate and a decadent coconut-pecan topping. Made with premium cocoa, melted chocolate, and a gooey caramelized topping, these brownies are the perfect indulgence for chocolate lovers. Great for parties, holidays, or a satisfying dessert anytime!
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the German Chocolate Topping:
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Make the Brownie Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, and brown sugar.
- Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
- Sift in flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Stir until combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips and pour batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake the Brownies:
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let cool completely before adding the topping.
- Make the German Chocolate Topping:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together evaporated milk, butter, brown sugar, and egg yolks.
- Cook until thickened, stirring constantly (about 8–10 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded coconut, pecans, and vanilla.
- Let cool slightly before spreading over the brownies.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Drizzle with melted chocolate if desired.
- Cut into squares and serve!
Notes
- For extra richness, add a layer of melted chocolate over the brownies before spreading the topping.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Toasting the coconut and pecans enhances the flavor
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