These Decadent German Chocolate Brownies combine a rich, fudgy chocolate brownie base with a luscious coconut-pecan frosting layered on top. Inspired by the classic German chocolate cake flavors, this dessert delivers deep cocoa richness paired with sweet, nutty, caramel-like topping in every bite. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or whenever you crave an indulgent homemade treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These brownies are the ultimate chocolate lover’s dessert with a twist. The base is dense, moist, and intensely chocolatey, while the coconut-pecan frosting adds a creamy, chewy texture with a slightly caramelized flavor.

You’ll appreciate how easy they are to prepare in a single baking pan, making them ideal for parties and bake sales. They slice beautifully, can be made ahead of time, and taste even better the next day as the flavors settle together.

If you enjoy layered desserts that balance richness with texture, these brownies will quickly become a favorite in your baking rotation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the brownie base:

1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, melted
2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
1 cup (85 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon (3 g) salt
1 cup (120 g) chopped pecans
1 cup (85 g) sweetened shredded coconut

For the coconut-pecan frosting:

1 can (14 oz / 396 g) sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup (100 g) packed brown sugar
1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter
4 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
1 cup (85 g) sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup (120 g) chopped pecans

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving slight overhang for easy removal.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder until smooth and glossy. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined. Do not overmix. Fold in the chopped pecans and shredded coconut.

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Do not overbake. Allow the brownies to cool slightly while preparing the frosting.

To make the frosting, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook while stirring constantly until the mixture begins to thicken, about 5 to 7 minutes.

In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Slowly whisk a small amount of the hot mixture into the yolks to temper them. Then pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan, stirring continuously. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until thick, glossy, and custard-like.

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Let the frosting cool for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly.

Spread the warm frosting evenly over the slightly cooled brownies. Allow them to set at room temperature for at least 1 hour, or refrigerate for faster setting. Once fully set, slice into squares and serve.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes

Servings: 16 brownies

Variations

For a deeper chocolate flavor, add 1 teaspoon espresso powder to the brownie batter.

If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the granulated sugar in the brownie base by 1/4 cup (50 g).

You can toast the pecans before adding them to enhance their nutty flavor.

For a lighter texture, replace half of the heavy cream in the frosting with evaporated milk.

If you prefer a smoother topping, finely chop the pecans instead of leaving them coarse.

Storage/Reheating

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

To freeze, wrap unfrosted brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and prepare fresh frosting before serving.

If reheating a slice, warm it in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds for a slightly gooey texture.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend designed for baking.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

The edges should be set, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

Can I make the frosting without egg yolks?

The egg yolks help create a thick, custard-like texture. Without them, the frosting will be thinner and less traditional.

Why is my frosting too thin?

It likely needs more cooking time. Continue stirring over medium heat until it thickens properly.

Can I prepare these brownies in advance?

Yes, you can bake the brownies a day ahead and store them covered. Add the frosting the next day for best freshness.

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?

Yes, chopped walnuts work well and provide a similar texture and flavor.

Should the brownies be refrigerated?

They can stay at room temperature for short-term storage, but refrigeration is recommended if keeping them longer than 3 days.

Can I reduce the sugar in the frosting?

You may reduce the brown sugar slightly, but avoid large reductions as it affects texture and thickness.

Why did my brownies turn out dry?

Overbaking is the most common cause. Be sure to remove them from the oven when the center is just set.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in two 9×13-inch pans. Baking time may need slight adjustment.

Conclusion

Decadent German Chocolate Brownies bring together the richness of fudgy chocolate and the classic coconut-pecan topping in one unforgettable dessert. They are indulgent, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for special occasions or simple weekend baking. Once you try this layered treat, it will easily earn a permanent place in your dessert collection.

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