Introduction

German Chocolate Bars are a decadent treat featuring a rich brownie base topped with a gooey coconut pecan layer and melty chocolate chips. They combine classic flavors in an easy-to-make bar that’s perfect for sharing or special occasions.

The image shows several square dessert bars neatly arranged on a wooden tray lined with parchment paper. Each bar has two distinct layers: the bottom layer is a dense, dark brown brownie, while the top layer is lighter, creamy beige with a textured look from shredded coconut and chopped nuts mixed in. Dark chocolate chips are scattered generously on the top layer, adding small round shapes with a glossy finish. The tray is placed on a white marbled surface with some pecan nuts and chocolate chips scattered around, along with a white bowl partially visible on the right filled with shredded coconut. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

18.3 oz box family size brownie mix (for a 13×9″ pan)
2 large eggs (or as listed on box)
3 Tbsp water (or as listed on box)
⅔ cup vegetable oil (or as listed on box)
14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 large egg
1 ½ cups sweetened coconut flakes
1 cup chopped pecans (toasted, optional)
¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Step 1: Toast pecans if using. Place pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant, about 2-5 minutes. Remove from heat immediately and transfer to a plate to cool. Chop once cooled if needed.
Step 2: Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving overhang to lift bars out easily.
Step 3: Prepare brownie batter by mixing the dry brownie mix with eggs, water, and oil according to package directions. Whisk until mostly smooth and pour into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.
Step 4: Bake the brownie base for 10 minutes. It will be underbaked with edges just starting to set.
Step 5: Meanwhile, mix sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and 1 egg in a bowl. Stir in coconut flakes and chopped pecans to make the topping.
Step 6: Remove partially baked brownies from oven. Drop spoonfuls of the coconut topping evenly over the surface—do not pour or spread it as it will sink in too much.
Step 7: Sprinkle chocolate chips on top of the coconut mixture.
Step 8: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 more minutes, until edges are browned and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.
Step 9: Let cool completely before lifting out bars using parchment overhang and cutting to serve.

Tips & Variations

Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and adds crunch, but you can skip this step for convenience.
If you don’t have parchment paper, grease the pan well to prevent sticking.
Feel free to substitute walnuts for pecans or add a pinch of cinnamon to the coconut mixture for extra warmth.

Storage

Store German Chocolate Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat briefly in the microwave if desired to soften the topping.

How to Serve

The image shows brownies cut into squares with two visible layers: a dark brown bottom layer that looks dense and chocolatey, and a lighter top layer that appears creamy with small chocolate chips scattered throughout, giving it a textured look. The brownies are set on white parchment paper on a wooden tray, with a few chocolate chips and chopped nuts scattered on the white marbled surface around it. There is a white bowl partially visible on the bottom right side filled with white shredded coconut and another small white bowl on the left containing chopped nuts. The focus is on the front brownies, showing the rich textures and layers clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free brownie mix and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free certified. This will maintain the same great taste without gluten.

Can I prepare the topping ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the coconut pecan topping a few hours in advance but keep it refrigerated until ready to use. Bring to room temperature before layering over the brownies.