German Chocolate Brownies

Name: German Chocolate Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 8×8 or 9×9 pan cooked and cooled brownies (homemade or boxed); 2/3 cup evaporated milk; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 5 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 2/3 cup chopped toasted pecans; 1 3/4 cups sweetened shredded coconut

Published: July 26, 2025

by Aileen Reed

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe is simple enough for beginners but delicious enough to wow experienced bakers.
Decadent Flavor: The rich chocolate brownies paired with gooey coconut pecan frosting create an irresistible taste sensation.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy warm brownies straight from the oven or chilled for a firmer texture; both ways are delightful!
Great for Any Occasion: These brownies are suitable for everything from casual family dinners to festive holiday celebrations.
Customizable: Feel free to add extra toppings or adjust ingredients to suit your tastes!

Tools and Preparation

Before starting, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Medium saucepan
Whisk
Mixing bowl
8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan
Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Medium saucepan: Essential for making the coconut pecan frosting over medium heat without burning.
Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring no lumps remain in your mixture.
Baking pan: A good quality pan ensures even cooking and easy removal of the brownies once baked.

Ingredients

These rich chocolaty German Chocolate Brownies are topped with a gooey homemade coconut pecan frosting. Make the brownies from scratch, or use a boxed brownie mix as the base of this recipe. You’ll love this decadent dessert!

For the Brownies

One 8×8 or 9×9 pan cooked and cooled brownies (boxed or homemade)

For the Coconut Pecan Frosting

2/3 cup evaporated milk (full fat)
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk (beaten)
5 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2/3 cup chopped toasted pecans (see note)
1 3/4 cups sweetened shredded coconut

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make German Chocolate Brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Frosting Base

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolk, and butter. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes, whisking frequently until thickened.

Step 2: Add Flavorings

Remove from the heat and stir in vanilla extract, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut. Mix well until evenly combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Brownies

Spoon the coconut pecan frosting onto the cooled brownies. Carefully spread it into an even layer using a rubber spatula.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool completely until the frosting has firmed up a bit before cutting into squares. To speed up cooling, you can place them in the refrigerator or freezer briefly but avoid leaving them too long to prevent drying out.

Enjoy these delightful German Chocolate Brownies at any gathering or as a special treat just for you!

How to Serve German Chocolate Brownies

Serving German Chocolate Brownies can transform any gathering into a delightful experience. These brownies are rich, decadent, and perfect for sharing. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dessert.

A La Mode

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a creamy contrast to the fudgy brownie.

Drizzled with Caramel

Add a drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the brownies for an extra sweet touch.

Fresh Berries

Top with fresh strawberries or raspberries to add a fruity flavor that balances the chocolate richness.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and enhances the overall presentation.

Coffee Pairing

Serve alongside a cup of coffee or espresso to complement the chocolate flavors.

Decorative Plates

Present the brownies on decorative plates and garnish with mint leaves for an elegant touch.

How to Perfect German Chocolate Brownies

To ensure your German Chocolate Brownies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Use quality chocolate: Choose high-quality chocolate for a richer flavor in your brownies.
Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on baking time; brownies should be soft in the center when done.
Let them cool completely: Allow the brownies to cool before cutting, as this helps maintain their structure.
Add toasted nuts: Toasted pecans add extra flavor and crunch to your brownies.
Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add additional toppings like chocolate chips or sea salt for variety.
Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and moisture.

Best Side Dishes for German Chocolate Brownies

Pairing side dishes with your German Chocolate Brownies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options that complement their rich flavors beautifully.

Vanilla Ice Cream
The classic choice that adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the brownies.
Chocolate Mousse
A light and airy dessert that pairs well with the dense texture of brownies.
Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate.
Coffee Cake
The subtle flavors of coffee cake make it a great companion for these chocolate treats.
Pecan Pie Bars
Rich and nutty, these bars echo the flavors in the brownies while adding variety.
Coconut Macaroons
These chewy cookies enhance the coconut notes from the frosting on your brownies.
Milkshakes
A thick milkshake can create an indulgent dessert experience alongside your brownies.
Cheesecake Bites
Mini cheesecake bites offer creamy goodness that complements the fudgy brownie perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making German Chocolate Brownies can be straightforward, but small mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for.

Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold eggs and butter can result in uneven mixing. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long can make the brownies tough. Stir until just combined for a fudgy texture.
Not measuring ingredients correctly: Inaccurate measurements can alter the final product. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
Skipping the cooling step: Cutting into brownies before they cool can result in a messy slice. Allow them to cool completely for cleaner cuts.
Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different, and overbaking can dry out your brownies. Check for doneness a few minutes early to ensure perfect texture.

Refrigerator Storage

Store German Chocolate Brownies in an airtight container.
They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing German Chocolate Brownies

Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap.
Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating German Chocolate Brownies

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat brownies for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds; check frequently to avoid overheating.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can start with a boxed brownie mix as the base. Just follow the instructions on the box and add the coconut pecan frosting afterward.

How do I know when my brownies are done?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

You can customize your German Chocolate Brownies by adding chocolate chips, different nuts, or even using dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet.

How should I store leftover frosting?

Store any leftover coconut pecan frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can use it on other desserts too!

Final Thoughts

German Chocolate Brownies are not only rich and decadent but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Whether you choose to make them from scratch or use a boxed mix, this recipe offers delicious possibilities. You can even experiment with different toppings or mix-ins! Try it today and indulge in these delightful treats!

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