German Chocolate Bars
Decadent German Chocolate Bars combine rich chocolate, coconut, and pecans in a layered bar perfect for parties, potlucks, or satisfying a sweet tooth craving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the German chocolate cake mix in a bowl.
- Cut in the cold butter or margarine until the mixture is crumbly.
- Press 2 1/2 cups of the crumb mixture into a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- Immediately sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips over the baked crust.
- Drop the coconut pecan frosting by tablespoons over the chocolate chips.
- Stir the milk into the remaining crumb mixture.
- Drop the milked crumb mixture by teaspoons over the top of the frosting and chips.
- Bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes or until bubbly around the edges and the top is cracked.
- Cool on a wire rack.
- Refrigerate for 4 hours before cutting and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you want to lighten the recipe, you can substitute Greek yogurt for part of the butter. Make sure to press the crust firmly into the pan to create a sturdy base. To avoid burning, keep an eye on the baking time during the second round of baking, as ovens may vary. If you enjoy coconut desserts, pair this with Coconut Flake Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These German Chocolate Bars are perfect for sharing at parties or gatherings. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. They also pair well with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure to let the bars cool completely before refrigerating to prevent sogginess. To enjoy them warm, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven briefly at a low temperature to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Chocolate Bars contains roughly 310 calories, with 3g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (18% of the Daily Value), iron (16% of the Daily Value), and calcium (13% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of frosting?
Yes, you can substitute the coconut pecan frosting with chocolate or vanilla frosting if you prefer. Just keep in mind that this will change the flavor profile of the bars. If you want to stick to the theme, look for a chocolate frosting with a similar texture.
What can I do if I don't have a 13 x 9 pan?
If you don't have a 13 x 9 inch pan, you can use two smaller pans or a larger pan, but adjust the baking time accordingly. Smaller pans may require a shorter baking time, while a larger pan may need a bit more time. Always check for doneness by looking for bubbling around the edges.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. They actually taste better after chilling, as the flavors meld together. Just be sure to allow them to set for at least four hours before cutting, and store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).