German Chocolate Pecan Brownies

why make this recipe

German Chocolate Pecan Brownies combine the deep, fudgy bite of classic brownies with the nutty crunch of pecans and the sweet, toasty coconut topping found in German chocolate desserts. They’re an excellent choice when you want a dessert that feels both familiar and a little special—great for potlucks, holiday trays, or a decadent weeknight treat.

introduction

These brownies start with a rich chocolate base enriched by melted German or semisweet baking chocolate, then gain texture and flavor from chopped pecans and shredded coconut. The result is a dense, chewy brownie with bright coconut notes and satisfying nut crunch. For a complementary cookie-dessert pairing idea, try a batch of cheesecake-stuffed chocolate chip cookies alongside them.

how to make German Chocolate Pecan Brownies

Ingredients :
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, 8 oz semisweet or German baking chocolate, chopped, 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed, 4 large eggs, room temperature, 1 cup chopped pecans, 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

Directions :

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Melt butter and chocolate together in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat, stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar until combined.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in flour until just combined.
6. Fold in chopped pecans and shredded coconut.
7. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
9. Allow to cool before slicing into squares and serve.

how to serve German Chocolate Pecan Brownies

Serve warm or at room temperature. A warm square topped with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream is classic; chilled brownies slice more cleanly for neat presentation. They also pair well with bold coffee or a lightly sweetened iced tea. For a Southern-inspired dessert spread, you could present them alongside pecan pie crescent rolls for variety and texture contrast.

how to store German Chocolate Pecan Brownies

Store cooled brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate up to 7 days — bring to room temperature or warm briefly before serving to restore tenderness. You can also freeze individual squares wrapped well for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently.

tips to make German Chocolate Pecan Brownies

• Use room-temperature eggs to ensure they incorporate smoothly into the warm chocolate mixture without seizing.
• Stir the chocolate and butter gently over low heat; scorching chocolate will make the batter grainy.
• Don’t overmix once you add the flour—overworking creates cakier brownies.
• Check doneness a few minutes before the minimum baking time; you want moist crumbs, not a dry center.
• Toast the pecans and coconut briefly (in a dry skillet or in the oven) for a deeper, nutty flavor.

variation (if any)

• Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if preferred.
• Replace the sweetened shredded coconut with unsweetened for a less-sweet finish.
• Add a swirl of caramel or cream cheese on top before baking for a marbled effect.
• For extra gooeyness, fold in chopped chocolate chips or a handful of milk chocolate chunks.

FAQ

Q: Can I use regular semisweet chocolate instead of German baking chocolate?
A: Yes — semisweet baking chocolate works well and will still give a rich chocolate flavor.

Q: How can I make these nut-free?
A: Omit the pecans and replace with extra coconut or add seeds like pumpkin seeds if allergies permit.

Q: Can I halve the recipe for a smaller pan?
A: Yes. Reduce baking time slightly and check for doneness earlier.

Conclusion

For more ideas and variations on this beloved treat, check a classic version at German Chocolate Brownies – Celebrating Sweets, or explore a gluten-free take at German Chocolate Brownies (Gluten-Free) – Pass Me Some Tasty.

German Chocolate Pecan Brownies

Deliciously fudgy brownies topped with pecans and coconut, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 12 pieces

Course: Baking, Dessert

Cuisine: American, German

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Brownie Base

• 1.5 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cups unsalted butter (2 sticks) Must be at room temperature
• 8 oz semisweet or German baking chocolate, chopped Use good quality chocolate for best flavor
• 0.5 cups light brown sugar, packed
• 4 large eggs, room temperature Important for smooth mixing
• 1 cups chopped pecans Can be substituted with walnuts or almonds
• 1 cups sweetened shredded coconut Unsweetened can be used for less sweetness

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. Melt butter and chocolate together in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat, stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar until combined.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in flour until just combined.
6. Fold in chopped pecans and shredded coconut.
7. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Baking

1. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
2. Allow to cool before slicing into squares and serve.

Notes

Serve warm or at room temperature. Topping with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream enhances the treat. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerate to extend to 7 days.