German Chocolate Brownies
German Chocolate Brownies are a decadent twist on the classic dessert, combining rich chocolate brownies with a luscious coconut pecan frosting. These indulgent brownies are the perfect treat for any chocolate lover, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, these brownies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Why Make German Chocolate Brownies
German Chocolate Brownies are a delightful way to elevate traditional brownies to a new level of decadence. With layers of moist chocolatey goodness and a creamy coconut pecan frosting, these brownies offer a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Homemade brownies also allow you to customize the sweetness and texture to your liking, ensuring a truly memorable dessert experience.
How to Make German Chocolate Brownies
- Prepare the Brownie Base: Preheat the oven and line a baking dish with parchment paper or foil. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. In a saucepan, melt the butter and German chocolate baking bar, then stir in the sugars until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, then mix in the flour mixture and chocolate chips.
- Bake the Brownies: Spread the brownie batter evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool while you prepare the frosting.
- Make the Coconut Pecan Frosting: In a saucepan, combine butter, evaporated milk, brown sugar, salt, egg yolks, and vanilla extract over medium heat. Cook, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens and turns golden brown. Stir in coconut flakes and chopped pecans, then spread the frosting over the cooled brownies.
- Decorate with Chocolate Drizzle: Melt chocolate candy melts and drizzle over the surface of the frosting. Allow the chocolate to set before slicing and serving the brownies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve German Chocolate Brownies as a delicious dessert for any occasion. Enjoy them on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. These brownies also make a wonderful addition to dessert platters or potluck gatherings.
Storage Info
Store leftover German Chocolate Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Alternatively, refrigerate them for longer freshness. To maintain the best texture, store the brownies without the chocolate drizzle and add it just before serving.
Techniques or Tips
- Be careful not to overmix the brownie batter to avoid a dense texture.
- Keep a close eye on the frosting while cooking to prevent it from burning or overthickening.
- For added convenience, use a disposable piping bag or a ziplock bag for drizzling the chocolate over the brownies.
FAQs about German Chocolate Brownies
- Can I use different nuts in the frosting? Yes, you can customize the frosting by using your favorite nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, instead of pecans.
- Can I make these brownies ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the brownies in advance and store them in an airtight container. Add the frosting and chocolate drizzle just before serving for the best presentation.
- Can I omit the chocolate drizzle? Yes, the chocolate drizzle is optional and can be omitted if desired. The brownies will still be delicious without it, or you can substitute it with a dusting of cocoa powder for added chocolate flavor.
German Chocolate Brownies
Equipment
- 9x9-inch Baking Dish
- 2 to 3-quart Saucepan
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups All-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 3 tablespoons Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Table salt
- 1 cup Salted butter, sliced into 1 tablespoon pats
- 4 ounces German chocolate baking bar, chopped
- 1 cup Light brown sugar, packed
- 1 1/2 cups Granulated sugar
- 2 large Eggs, room temperature, Divided
- 2 teaspoons Pure vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup Sweetened coconut flakes
- 1 cup Chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup Chocolate melting wafers, optional garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9-inch baking dish with parchment paper or heavy-duty aluminum foil, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal. Generously spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and table salt. Whisk to combine.
- In a 2 to 3-quart saucepan over medium heat, melt the sliced butter pats and chopped German chocolate baking bar, stirring until completely combined and melted. Remove from heat.
- Stir in the light brown sugar and granulated sugar until well combined with the butter-chocolate mixture.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, stirring well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the butter and chocolate mixture to the flour mixture, stirring just until incorporated and no flour lumps remain. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow brownies to cool in the pan.
- While brownies are cooling, make the coconut pecan frosting. In a 3 to 4-quart saucepan over medium heat, combine sliced butter, evaporated milk, light brown sugar, table salt, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and turns golden caramel in color, about 9 to 10 minutes.
- Stir in the sweetened coconut flakes and chopped pecans, and continue stirring until thickened, about 3-4 minutes. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled brownies.
- Use the parchment paper or foil overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut into squares. Optional: Melt chocolate melting wafers and drizzle over the frosting. Allow chocolate to solidify before serving.
