German Chocolate Brownies Recipe
Indulge in the rich, fudgy delight of German Chocolate Brownies, featuring a moist chocolate base topped with a luscious, homemade coconut-pecan frosting. This classic dessert combines the deep chocolate flavors with a creamy, nutty topping, perfect for any occasion or chocolate lover’s craving.
- Author: Isla
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
For the Brownies:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans
- Pinch of salt
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined, which helps create a rich, moist brownie base.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder in a separate bowl to break up lumps and ensure even distribution. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until fully incorporated without overmixing.
- Add Milk: Stir in the milk until the batter achieves a smooth consistency; this adds moisture for tender brownies.
- Optional Chocolate Chips: Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips if you want an extra layer of melty chocolate richness in every bite.
- Bake: Pour the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, indicating a fudgy texture. Remove from the oven and let cool completely while preparing the frosting.
- Prepare Frosting: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the evaporated milk, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and egg yolks. Stir constantly to prevent curdling or burning as the mixture thickens, which should take about 8-10 minutes into a creamy, custard-like consistency.
- Add Coconut and Pecans: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, shredded sweetened coconut, chopped pecans, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.
- Cool Frosting: Allow the frosting to cool for about 10 minutes to thicken slightly, making it easier to spread over the brownies without melting.
- Frost the Brownies: Once the brownies have fully cooled, evenly spread the coconut-pecan frosting over the top, covering every corner for maximum flavor and texture contrast.
- Serve: Cut the frosted brownies into squares and serve. Enjoy the perfect balance of fudgy chocolate base and nutty, sweet topping that makes German Chocolate Brownies so irresistible.
Notes
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleaner edges.
- Ensure the frosting is cooled before spreading to prevent it from melting into the brownies.
- For a dairy-free alternative, substitute butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Chilling brownies after frosting helps the topping set and makes slicing easier.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (approximately 2x2 inch piece)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: German chocolate brownies, coconut pecan frosting, fudgy brownies, chocolate dessert, homemade brownies, easy brownie recipe