Name: German Chocolate Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup evaporated milk; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut; 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself blissfully torn between a decadent brownie and the classic flavors of coconut-pecan German chocolate cake, these German Chocolate Brownies are about to end your dessert dilemma! Each bite blends fudgy chocolate richness with a luscious coconut-pecan topping that’s sweet, buttery, and just a bit toasty. Whether you’re making a weekday treat or showing off at a potluck, this easy recipe delivers crowd-pleasing, bakery-tier results from the comfort of your own kitchen.

German Chocolate Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes these German Chocolate Brownies stand out is how every ingredient pulls its weight: from the glossy richness of melted chocolate chips to the crunchy satisfaction of pecans. Here’s all you need to build those signature layers of flavor and texture, step by simple step.

Unsalted butter: Gives a dense, rich base to the brownie while letting you control the saltiness of the whole dish.
Semisweet chocolate chips: Ensure a deep, chocolatey flavor without overpowering sweetness.
Granulated sugar: For sweetness and helping create that signature shiny crust on top.
Large eggs: Bind everything together and add chewiness to each bite.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the chocolate with warm, fragrant undertones.
All-purpose flour: Just enough to hold the brownies, keeping them fudgy, not cakey.
Salt: Enhances all the chocolate and balances the sweetness.
Evaporated milk (for topping): Adds creaminess and helps the coconut-pecan topping set just right.
Brown sugar (for topping): Brings caramel notes that pair perfectly with chocolate.
Egg yolk (for topping): Richens and helps thicken the topping to that perfect gooey consistency.
Additional unsalted butter (for topping): Makes the coconut-pecan mixture extra silky.
Vanilla extract (for topping): Gives extra depth to the topping’s sweet flavor.
Sweetened shredded coconut: The star of German chocolate, adding chewy sweetness and beautiful texture.
Chopped pecans: For classic crunch with a buttery, nutty bite in every mouthful.

How to Make German Chocolate Brownies

Step 1: Prep the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it—this guarantees your German Chocolate Brownies are a breeze to lift out and cut perfectly clean squares.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and semisweet chocolate chips together. Stir gently until the mixture is glossy and smooth. This step ensures the brownies will have the sultriest, fudgiest foundation possible.

Step 3: Mix the Brownie Batter

Remove your saucepan from the heat. Whisk in the granulated sugar—this helps cool down the chocolate so you can safely add the eggs next. Crack in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each, and stir in the vanilla extract. Gently fold in the flour and salt, mixing only until everything just comes together for extra fudginess.

Step 4: Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly to the edges. Bake for 25 to 28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. This is the moment that ensures soft, not dry, German Chocolate Brownies. Cool completely—to avoid melting your topping later!

Step 5: Make the Coconut-Pecan Topping

In a clean saucepan, combine evaporated milk, brown sugar, egg yolk, and more butter. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 8 to 10 minutes. Once removed from the heat, stir in the vanilla, sweetened shredded coconut, and chopped pecans for that essential gooey, nutty layer.

Step 6: Assemble and Cool

Let the coconut-pecan topping cool for 10 to 15 minutes just so it thickens slightly, then gently spread it over the cooled brownie base. Chill the pan for 20 minutes—this sets the topping, so your German Chocolate Brownies slice neatly and taste even better.

How to Serve German Chocolate Brownies

Garnishes

Sprinkle a few toasted coconut flakes or extra chopped pecans over the top just before serving for a pretty look and pop of flavor. Some folks love a drizzle of melted chocolate or a pinch of flaky sea salt—the little touches really make these special!

Side Dishes

Serve your German Chocolate Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. These creamy accompaniments bring out the contrast in flavors and add a cool counterpoint to the sweet, toasty topping.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, try cutting the brownies into tiny bites and nestling them in mini cupcake liners. Or layer cubes of brownies and extra topping in parfait glasses with whipped cream and berries for a German chocolate-inspired trifle. Kids (and adults!) love them on popsicle sticks, like a brownie lollipop.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your German Chocolate Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep perfectly fresh and flavorful for up to five days, and the topping will stay firm, not sticky.

Freezing

Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. Freeze for up to two months. When you need a chocolate fix, just let one thaw—no need to miss out on rich, homemade goodness!

Reheating

If you like warm brownies, microwave one for about 10 to 15 seconds straight from the fridge or allow it to thaw at room temperature if frozen. A short warm-up makes the topping extra gooey and irresistible again.

FAQs

Can I make German Chocolate Brownies without pecans?

Absolutely! If you’re avoiding nuts or just not a fan, feel free to swap pecans for more coconut or even sunflower seeds for a bit of texture without the nut allergens.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes! Simply use a 9×13-inch baking pan and double all ingredients. The baking time may increase by a few minutes, so keep an eye on the brownies and test for doneness with a toothpick.

What makes German Chocolate Brownies different from regular brownies?

It’s all about the coconut-pecan topping! That sweet, soft, and slightly chewy layer is inspired by the classic German chocolate cake, setting these brownies apart and delivering a nostalgic, bakery-style treat at home.

Do I have to chill the brownies before cutting?

Chilling is highly recommended, as it sets the topping for clean, beautiful slices and makes serving less messy. Warm brownies with warm topping tend to fall apart, so a little patience goes a long way!

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?

Definitely! Using dark chocolate chips will make the brownies richer and intensify the cocoa flavor. Feel free to adjust according to your taste—both are delicious options.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something that’s part nostalgia, part chocolate bliss, and fully irresistible, don’t wait to try these German Chocolate Brownies. Whether you bake them for family, friends, or just as a pick-me-up, they’re sure to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every rich, coconut-pecan filled bite!

German Chocolate Brownies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 22 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes (plus cooling)
Yield: 16 brownies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of these German Chocolate Brownies. A fudgy brownie base topped with a luscious coconut pecan topping, these treats are perfect for any chocolate lover.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Base:

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

Coconut Pecan Topping:

1/2 cup evaporated milk
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 large egg yolk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped pecans

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
Melt chocolate and butter: In a saucepan, melt butter and chocolate chips over low heat until smooth. Remove from heat.
Mix batter: Whisk in sugar, then eggs and vanilla. Stir in flour and salt until just combined.
Bake: Pour batter into pan and bake for 25–28 minutes until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Cool.
Make topping: Combine milk, sugar, egg yolk, and butter in a saucepan. Cook until thickened. Stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans.
Assemble: Spread topping over cooled brownies. Chill for 20 minutes before slicing.