Oh my goodness, I am beyond excited to share this recipe for German Chocolate Brownies with you! These beauties are a delightful mash-up of rich, fudgy brownies topped with a gooey coconut-pecan frosting that is simply to die for. Every single bite is an indulgent treat that feels like a warm hug from the inside!
I first discovered these brownies at a family gathering when my aunt brought them along. I remember standing by the dessert table, eyeing them suspiciously at first. After my first taste, I had to ask her for the recipe, and I’ve been making them ever since! They’re perfect for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or even just a Wednesday when you need a little pick-me-up. So, let’s dive into this scrumptious adventure together!
What’s in German Chocolate Brownies?
Unsalted Butter: This is the superstar of the brownies! I always use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness of my sweets. Plus, who doesn’t love that rich, buttery flavor?
Granulated Sugar: We’re talking about the sweet stuff that helps our brownies achieve that lovely chewy texture.
Eggs: Large eggs are key here, adding moisture and helping our brownies rise just a bit.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla extract is like a loving whisper in the recipe—essential for enhancing all those wonderful flavors!
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder provides that deep chocolate flavor we all crave. I use Dutch-process cocoa for an extra dimension of richness.
All-Purpose Flour: A staple in baking, this ingredient gives our brownies structure. We don’t want them falling apart like a bad reality show!
Salt: Just a pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness, making every bite pure bliss.
Baking Powder: This little leavening agent gives our brownies that perfect chewy texture.
Light Brown Sugar: For the topping, this sugar adds a lovely caramel note to our coconut-pecan decadence.
Heavy Cream: Cream makes this topping rich and luscious—trust me, don’t skimp on this one!
Shredded Sweetened Coconut: Coconut enthusiasts, rejoice! This adds a chewy, tropical sweetness that’s just divine.
Chopped Pecans: These crunchy jewels bring a delightful nuttiness that pairs perfectly with the coconut.
Is German Chocolate Brownies Good for You?
Let’s keep it real: these brownies aren’t health food by any means, but life is all about balance, right?
Coconut: Besides being delicious, coconut provides fiber and some healthy fats—score! Just remember not to eat the whole pan in one sitting.
Pecans: They’re not just a tasty topping! Pecans contain antioxidants and healthy fats, which can be good for your heart when consumed in moderation.
That said, it’s still a dessert, so enjoy these beauties in moderation. Pair them with a glass of water or a cup of coffee, and you’ll have a delightful treat without feeling too guilty.
Ingredients
– **For the Brownies:**
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/3 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– **For the Topping:**
– 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 cup (100g) shredded sweetened coconut
– 1 cup (100g) chopped pecans
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
This recipe yields about 16 brownies, perfect for sharing—or not! I won’t judge if you decide to keep them all to yourself.
How to Make German Chocolate Brownies?
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
2. **Make the Brownie Batter:** In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar, mixing until well combined. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth. Slowly sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir until just combined, taking care not to overmix. We want fudgy, not cake-like!
3. **Bake the Brownies:** Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool in the pan.
4. **Prepare the Topping:** In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle boil while stirring constantly. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. **Add Coconut and Pecans:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, salt, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
6. **Assemble:** Once the brownies have cooled, pour the coconut pecan topping over them, spreading it evenly. Let it set for about 30 minutes—if you can resist, that is!
7. **Slice and Serve:** Lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper and slice them into squares. Serve and enjoy the delightful goodness of your German chocolate brownies!
Sweet Serving Suggestions
These brownies are fabulous on their own, but if you’re feeling extra fancy, you could serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—yes, please! Drizzle a little caramel or chocolate sauce on top for a truly decadent experience.
You can also sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top after baking for that sweet-salty contrast—trust me, it elevates these brownies from delicious to divine.
So, what are you waiting for? Give these German Chocolate Brownies a try, and I promise they’ll make your taste buds dance with joy. And don’t forget to share your brownie adventures with me; I love hearing about your baking triumphs! Happy baking!
