German Chocolate Pecan Brownies
Decadent brownies topped with a creamy coconut-pecan custard, perfect for chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter 2 sticks
- 8 ounces semisweet or German baking chocolate, chopped
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 0.25 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Coconut Pecan Topping
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 3 large egg yolks, lightly whisked
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1.33 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup pecans, chopped and lightly toasted
Optional Garnish
- to taste Extra toasted pecans
- to taste Drizzle of melted chocolate
Instructions
Prepare the Brownie Base
- Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Line a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease with cooking spray or butter.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter with chopped chocolate, stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Whisk in granulated sugar and brown sugar. Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, sea salt, and cocoa powder. Gently fold into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 22–28 minutes, or until the center is just set. Cool completely on a wire rack.
Make the Coconut Pecan Topping
- Combine evaporated milk, egg yolks, granulated sugar, and butter in a saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened to a custard-like consistency (about 8–12 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and toasted pecans. Let cool slightly to thicken.
Assemble the Brownies
- Spread the coconut pecan topping evenly over the cooled brownies.
- Refrigerate for a minimum of 45 minutes to set the topping before slicing.
Notes
For clean slices, refrigerate brownies until fully set and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. Toast pecans lightly to enhance their flavor and crunch. Ensure eggs are at room temperature for a smooth, rich batter. Avoid overbaking to maintain a fudgy brownie center. Drizzle melted chocolate on top for an elegant presentation.