Description
These Gooey German Chocolate Bars are a decadent treat featuring a rich German chocolate cake base topped with a gooey layer of sweetened coconut, crunchy pecans, and a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for dessert lovers craving a delightful combination of textures and flavors, this recipe yields 16 bars that are easy to prepare and bake in just over an hour.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Base
- 1 box German Chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box to prepare the cake)
Topping
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Frosting
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, room temperature
- ½ cup butter, room temperature
- 1 (1-lb) box powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Layer Coconut and Pecans: Evenly sprinkle the shredded sweetened coconut and chopped pecans across the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the first flavorful layer.
- Prepare and Pour Cake Batter: Follow the package instructions to prepare the German Chocolate cake mix batter. Once mixed, pour the batter evenly over the coconut and pecan layer in the pan.
- Make Frosting and Add on Top: Using a handheld mixer, blend the room temperature cream cheese, softened butter, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Pour this frosting mixture evenly over the cake batter layer in the pan.
- Bake the Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 16 squares and serving.
Notes
- Allow bars to cool completely to ensure the frosting sets properly and to avoid runny slices.
- For a nuttier flavor, you can toast the pecans lightly before sprinkling.
- Substitute unsweetened coconut if preferred, but the sweetened coconut adds moisture and sweetness.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Bring the bars to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
