Gooey German Chocolate Cake Bars Recipe

Gooey German Chocolate Cake Bars are an indulgent twist on the classic German Chocolate Cake. They feature a rich chocolate base topped with a decadent layer of caramel, pecans, and coconut that delivers a chewy, gooey bite with every piece. These bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion, from family gatherings to potlucks, and they are surprisingly easy to make. If you love the flavor combination of chocolate, caramel, and coconut, you’ll adore these bars. The dense chocolate layer is complemented by the crunchy pecans and the sweet, sticky coconut topping, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 4 oz unsweetened chocolate
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup butter

Preparation:

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to make removing the bars easier later on.

Step 2:
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter and unsweetened chocolate over low heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture is completely smooth. Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly before moving on to the next step.

Step 3:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Once the chocolate mixture has cooled slightly, gradually stir it into the sugar and egg mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 4:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the chocolate mixture, stirring just until everything is combined and no streaks of flour remain.

Step 5:
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish, ensuring it reaches all the corners. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, set the cake base aside and allow it to cool completely.

Step 6:
While the cake is cooling, prepare the gooey caramel topping. In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. After about 10-15 minutes, the mixture should thicken and develop a rich, caramel-like consistency.

Step 7:
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chopped pecans and shredded coconut. Mix until everything is evenly coated with the caramel sauce.

Step 8:
Pour the caramel pecan-coconut mixture over the cooled chocolate base. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly across the surface. Ensure that the topping covers the entire cake base for a uniform gooey layer in every bite.

Step 9:
Allow the bars to set completely at room temperature, or place them in the fridge to speed up the process. Once fully set, lift the bars from the pan using the parchment overhang and cut them into squares.

Variation

• Chocolate Chips: For extra indulgence, sprinkle chocolate chips over the cooled cake base before adding the caramel topping. This will add an additional layer of chocolatey goodness when you bite into the bars.
• Caramel Drizzle: After the bars have set, you can drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top for a decorative and even gooier finish.
• Nut-Free Option: If you prefer a nut-free dessert, you can omit the pecans entirely. Simply replace them with extra shredded coconut for a chewy, coconut-dominant topping.

Cooking Note

• Chocolate Melting Tip: Be careful when melting the chocolate and butter mixture. Use low heat and stir constantly to avoid scorching the chocolate, which can affect the texture and taste of the bars.
• Caramel Texture: The topping should reach a thick, smooth, caramel-like consistency before adding the pecans and coconut. If the mixture looks too thin, continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, but keep stirring to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

These Gooey German Chocolate Cake Bars are rich, decadent treats that pair perfectly with a variety of accompaniments:

• With Ice Cream: Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on the side for an irresistible dessert.
• Drizzled with Chocolate: Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the bars before serving for an extra dose of chocolate flavor.
• Festive Presentation: For holidays or special occasions, sprinkle some powdered sugar or festive sprinkles over the top for a visually appealing finish.

Tips

• Storage: These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you prefer, you can also refrigerate them for up to a week, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving to maintain their gooey texture.
• Make Ahead: You can make the bars a day ahead of serving. Just bake the base and prepare the topping as directed. Store the bars in the fridge and let them sit at room temperature before serving.
• Cutting the Bars: To get clean, even squares, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut. If the topping is particularly sticky, run the knife under warm water before cutting.

Prep Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 130mg
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 18g

FAQs

Can I substitute milk chocolate for unsweetened chocolate?
While unsweetened chocolate provides a deep, rich flavor that balances the sweetness of the topping, you can substitute milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter base. Just be sure to reduce the amount of granulated sugar by 1/4 cup to compensate for the extra sweetness in the chocolate.

Can I use other types of nuts?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional in German Chocolate Cake, you can swap them out for walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts depending on your taste preferences.

What is the best way to store these bars?
These bars are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving so that the texture remains gooey.

Can I freeze the bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.

Why are my bars too gooey?
If the topping hasn’t set properly, it may be due to undercooking the caramel mixture. Make sure to cook the topping until it reaches a thick, caramel-like consistency before adding the pecans and coconut. If it still seems too soft after refrigerating, you can return the bars to the fridge to let them firm up further.

Conclusion

Gooey German Chocolate Cake Bars take everything you love about the classic cake and turn it into an easy-to-make, handheld treat. The rich chocolate base and gooey, caramel-like topping loaded with pecans and coconut make for a deliciously indulgent dessert that’s sure to be a hit. Whether you’re making them for a party, a potluck, or simply to enjoy at home, these bars are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the irresistible combination of flavors and textures!

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