Introduction
German chocolate brownies are a rich and indulgent twist on classic brownies. With a fudgy chocolate base and a decadent coconut-pecan topping, they combine two beloved desserts into one irresistible treat.
Ingredients
For the brownies
1 cup butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
For the topping
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup shredded coconut
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup butter
4 egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
For the brownies: In a bowl, whisk melted butter, sugar, and cocoa powder until smooth. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Add flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Spread batter into prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Let cool.
For the topping: In a saucepan, combine condensed milk, brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and golden, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, pecans, and coconut.
Spread the topping evenly over cooled brownies. Let set before slicing into squares.
How to Make
Start by preparing a classic fudgy brownie base with melted butter, cocoa, and sugar. While the brownies bake, make the topping by cooking down sweetened condensed milk, sugar, cream, and egg yolks until thick. Fold in coconut and pecans for a rich texture, then layer it over the brownies for a luscious finish.
Variations
Add a layer of melted dark chocolate on top for extra indulgence.
Use walnuts instead of pecans for a nutty twist.
Make it gluten-free by substituting almond flour for all-purpose flour.
Add a splash of bourbon or rum extract to the topping for depth of flavor.
Tips
Don’t overbake the brownies—keep them fudgy and moist.
Stir the topping constantly to prevent the egg yolks from scrambling.
Toast the coconut and pecans beforehand for a deeper flavor.
Chill the brownies before cutting for cleaner slices.
Conclusion
German chocolate brownies bring together the best of both worlds: dense, chocolatey brownies paired with a sweet coconut-pecan topping. Perfect for parties, holidays, or whenever you crave a truly decadent dessert.