German Chocolate Bars – Rich, Fudgy, and Irresistible

If you love classic German chocolate cake but want a dessert that feels easier, faster, and perfect for sharing, these German Chocolate Bars deliver everything you crave in a handheld form. They feature a dense chocolate base topped with a caramel-style coconut-pecan layer that stays soft, buttery, and impossibly rich. Each bite offers a balance of deep chocolate flavor and the signature toasted coconut sweetness the classic dessert is known for.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, bold chocolate flavor with a soft, fudgy texture.
• Classic German chocolate topping in an easy bar format.
• Perfect for holidays, gifting, or feeding a crowd.
• Freezer-friendly and travels well.
• Simple pantry ingredients and reliable results.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Base

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking powder

For the Coconut-Pecan Topping

• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ⅓ cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
3. In another bowl, whisk melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Spread the chocolate batter evenly into the prepared pan.
6. Bake for 18–22 minutes or until the center sets. Remove from the oven and cool.
7. In a saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, butter, and egg yolks.
8. Cook over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened.
9. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans.
10. Spread the warm coconut-pecan mixture over the cooled chocolate base.
11. Allow the bars to set for at least 1 hour before slicing.
12. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

• Toast your pecans before adding them for deeper flavor.
• Add ½ cup chocolate chips to the base for extra richness.
• For a less sweet topping, reduce sugar in the frosting by ¼ cup.
• Chill the bars for cleaner slices, especially for gifting or events.
• Swap pecans for walnuts if preferred.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Keep bars in an airtight container.
• Store up to 5 days.
• Freeze bars individually wrapped.
• Store up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with vanilla ice cream.
• Pair with hot coffee or a latte.
• Add a drizzle of melted chocolate before slicing for presentation.
• Bring to potlucks or holiday gatherings, they hold up beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars are perfect for preparing ahead. The coconut-pecan topping actually improves after chilling because it firms up and develops a richer texture. Prepare the entire tray, store it in the refrigerator, and slice right before serving.

Why did my topping not thicken?

If the topping stays thin, it likely didn’t cook long enough. The mixture must simmer gently and be stirred constantly so the egg yolks emulsify and help the sauce thicken. Continue stirring over medium heat until it coats the back of a spoon.

Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk?

Sweetened condensed milk is much sweeter and thicker, so it changes the texture. If you use it, reduce sugar in the topping significantly and cook for a shorter time. The result will be sweeter and more caramel-like.

Can I double the topping for extra richness?

Absolutely. Many people love a thicker coconut-pecan layer. If doubling, cook the mixture 1–2 minutes longer and allow extra cooling time so it firms up properly.

Ready to Make It?

These German Chocolate Bars bring all the nostalgic flavors of the classic cake in a simple, slice-and-serve format. Save this recipe now so you can come back to it anytime you want a decadent, crowd-pleasing dessert.

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