Madeleine’s German Chocolate Cake Brownie Recipe

My dad's favorite dessert has always been German chocolate cake. While a traditional cake can be time-consuming and expensive to make, these brownies offer the same delicious flavors in an easier format. My German Chocolate Cake Brownies recipe delivers the perfect marriage of fudgy chocolate brownies and traditional German chocolate cake topping. This recipe has been tested and perfected to ensure success in your kitchen.

Essential Kitchen Equipment

• 8" square baking pan (metal recommended for best results)

• Mixing bowls

Brownie Base Ingredients

The foundation of this recipe starts with our tried-and-true fudgy brownie base, carefully calibrated for the perfect texture.

Base Ingredients List

• 1 cup unsalted butter (226g)

• 2 cups granulated sugar (400g)

• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (75g)

• 3 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)

• 1½ cups semisweet chocolate chips (270g)

German Chocolate Topping Ingredients

• ½ cup light brown sugar

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup butter

• 3 large egg yolks

• ¾ cup evaporated milk

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup chopped pecans

• 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Perfect Brownie Base:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare 8×8-inch baking pan with grease and parchment paper.

2. Melt butter in microwave using 20-second intervals for even melting.

3. Combine with sugar and cocoa powder, whisking vigorously for 30 seconds.

4. Incorporate eggs, vanilla, and salt until well mixed.

5. Gently fold in flour and chocolate chips just until combined.

6. Transfer batter to prepared pan.

7. Bake 35-40 minutes, using toothpick test for doneness.

Creating the Signature Topping:

1. Combine sugars, butter, egg yolks, and evaporated milk in saucepan.

2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened (10-12 minutes).

3. Mix in vanilla, pecans, and coconut off heat.

4. Allow topping to cool before spreading over cooled brownies.

Some Baking Tips

• Choose metal baking pans for superior heat distribution and crispy edges

• Always line with parchment paper for easy removal

• Consider Dutch-processed cocoa powder for enhanced chocolate flavor

• Ensure complete cooling before adding topping

• Store in airtight container up to 5 days for optimal freshness