Why You’ll Love This Recipe

German Chocolate Cookie Bars are a decadent dessert that brings together the richness of chocolate, the chewiness of a cookie base, and the classic coconut-pecan topping known from German chocolate cake. These bars are perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any time you crave a sweet treat with layers of texture and flavor.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourunsalted buttergranulated sugarbrown sugareggsvanilla extractbaking sodasaltsemisweet chocolate chipsunsweetened cocoa powderevaporated milkegg yolkssweetened shredded coconutchopped pecans

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

In a bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.

Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.

Fold in the chocolate chips.

Press the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

While the bars bake, prepare the coconut-pecan topping: in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together evaporated milk, egg yolks, and butter until thickened.

Remove from heat and stir in shredded coconut and chopped pecans.

Spread the topping evenly over the warm cookie base.

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 bars.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 20–22 minutesTopping preparation: 10 minutesCooling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the cooled topping for extra richness.

Use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a deeper chocolate flavor.

Swap pecans for walnuts if preferred.

Add a pinch of cinnamon to the cookie base for a subtle warmth.

storage/reheating

Store German Chocolate Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 7 days or freeze for up to 2 months.To serve warm, microwave individual bars for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

What makes these bars “German chocolate”?

The name comes from the style of the topping, which is traditional in German chocolate cake—not from Germany itself.

Can I use canned frosting instead?

Homemade topping is recommended for authentic texture and flavor, but canned can be used in a pinch.

Are these overly sweet?

They’re rich and sweet, but balanced by the cocoa and nuts.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes, they can be made a day ahead and stored covered until ready to serve.

Do I have to use pecans?

No, other nuts like walnuts or almonds work too, or omit them for a nut-free version.

Can I make the cookie base from a boxed mix?

Yes, a chocolate cookie mix can be used to save time, though homemade has the best flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger pan or two 9×13 pans and adjust baking time as needed.

What type of chocolate works best?

Semisweet or dark chocolate chips are best for depth of flavor.

Can I freeze the bars?

Yes, freeze them in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

German Chocolate Cookie Bars combine everything you love about the traditional cake with the ease and portability of a cookie bar. With a chewy chocolate base and a rich, gooey coconut-pecan topping, these bars are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. They’re indulgent, satisfying, and sure to disappear fast.