German Chocolate Fudge Recipe

German Chocolate Fudge Recipe for Rich, Sweet Bliss

Sweet memories of childhood baking flood my mind whenever I think about german chocolate fudge nestled between layers of rich, velvety goodness.

Chocolate lovers understand the magic that happens when coconut and pecans dance together in decadent harmony.

My grandmother’s secret recipe whispered tales of indulgence passed through generations.

Every bite promises a delightful journey into pure comfort and nostalgia.

Smooth chocolate melts seamlessly with creamy caramel undertones, creating an irresistible treat.

Clusters of toasted nuts provide delightful crunch against silky fudge textures.

You won’t be able to resist cutting just one more delectable square from this irresistible dessert.

Prepare to experience a moment of pure bliss that connects generations through sweet culinary traditions.

German Chocolate Fudge That Feels Extra Decadent

  • Perfect for busy home bakers seeking a delightful sweet treat that requires minimal technical skills and delivers maximum flavor satisfaction.
  • The microwave and stovetop method makes this recipe super accessible, allowing even novice cooks to create a professional-looking dessert without complicated techniques.
  • German chocolate fudge combines rich chocolate, creamy coconut, and crunchy pecans, making it an irresistible option for potlucks, holiday gatherings, and special celebrations where people crave something indulgent.
  • This dessert can be prepared days in advance and stored in the refrigerator, providing convenient entertainment planning and reducing last-minute cooking stress while ensuring a delectable treat is always ready.

Ingredient List for German Chocolate Fudge

Chocolate Base:
  • Chocolate Chips: Rich, creamy base for classic fudge texture; dark or semi-sweet works best.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Provides sweetness and smooth consistency; key for binding ingredients.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor depth; pure vanilla recommended for best taste.
  • Salt: Balances sweetness and highlights chocolate flavor.
Coconut Pecan Topping:
  • Evaporated Milk: Creates rich, thick caramel-like coating; helps bind topping ingredients.
  • Sugar: Sweetens and helps create traditional German chocolate texture.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create smooth topping; unsalted preferred.
  • Egg Yolks: Provides creamy, custard-like consistency to topping.
  • Shredded Coconut: Classic German chocolate cake flavor; unsweetened or sweetened options work.
  • Chopped Pecans: Adds crunch and nutty flavor; toasting optional for deeper taste.
Pan Preparation:
  • Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal and clean cutting of fudge; helps with presentation.

Step-by-Step for German Chocolate Fudge Perfection

Step 1: Line Baking Dish

Grab a parchment paper and carefully line an 8×8-inch baking dish, ensuring extra paper hangs over the edges for easy lifting later.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate Base

Collect in a microwave-safe bowl:
  • Chocolate chips
  • Sweetened condensed milk
  • Vanilla extract
  • Salt

Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each interval until smooth and completely melted.

Step 3: Create Fudge Layer

Pour the silky chocolate mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread evenly. Slide into the refrigerator and chill for one hour until firm.

Step 4: Craft Coconut Pecan Topping

In a saucepan, combine:
  • Evaporated milk
  • Sugar
  • Butter
  • Egg yolks

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (roughly 5-7 minutes).

Step 5: Enhance Topping

Remove from heat and mix in:
  • Vanilla extract
  • Shredded coconut
  • Chopped pecans

Stir until ingredients are beautifully blended.

Step 6: Layer Topping

Spread the coconut-pecan mixture generously over the chilled fudge. Press gently to ensure it adheres.

Step 7: Chill and Slice

Refrigerate for a minimum of two hours until completely set. Lift out using parchment paper edges, slice into squares, and savor each decadent bite.

Pro Tips for Rich German Chocolate Fudge

  • Choose Quality Chocolate: Select high-quality chocolate chips for richer, smoother fudge that melts perfectly and creates a luxurious texture.
  • Prevent Overheating: Microwave chocolate in short intervals and stir frequently to avoid burning, ensuring a silky smooth consistency every time.
  • Control Topping Thickness: Let coconut-pecan mixture cool slightly before spreading to maintain ideal texture and prevent soggy fudge layers.
  • Precise Temperature Matters: Cook the coconut-pecan topping until it thickens and coats the spoon, which typically takes 5-7 minutes over medium heat for perfect consistency.
  • Store Smartly: Keep fudge refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Store and Slice German Chocolate Fudge Easily

  • Store German Chocolate Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap individual fudge pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality and taste.
  • Remove frozen fudge from the freezer and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing helps maintain the texture and prevents condensation.
  • Let the fudge sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance its rich, creamy flavor.

Sweet Treats That Match German Chocolate Fudge

  • Choose a full-bodied port or cabernet sauvignon that complements the chocolate's intense sweetness and matches the dessert's decadent texture.
  • Brew a smooth espresso or dark roast coffee to enhance the chocolate and nutty flavors, cutting through the fudge's richness with a bold, robust profile.
  • Serve a scoop of classic vanilla bean ice cream alongside the fudge, providing a cool, smooth contrast to the dense, sweet chocolate and crunchy pecan topping.
  • Select a smooth bourbon with caramel and vanilla notes that harmonize with the German chocolate fudge's complex flavor profile, creating a sophisticated dessert experience.

Flavor Variations for German Chocolate Fudge Fans

  • Dairy-Free Dream: Replace sweetened condensed milk with coconut condensed milk and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a lactose-free version.
  • Nutty Alternative: Swap pecans with almonds or walnuts for different flavor profiles and texture variations.
  • Gluten-Free Friendly: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, particularly checking chocolate chips and vanilla extract for potential gluten contamination.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Use sugar-free chocolate chips and substitute sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener to reduce overall sugar content.

Common Questions About German Chocolate Fudge

  • What are the key ingredients for German Chocolate Fudge?

The key ingredients include chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, sugar, butter, egg yolks, shredded coconut, pecans, and vanilla extract.

  • Is this recipe difficult to make?

No, this recipe is beginner-friendly and requires basic microwave and stovetop skills with straightforward steps.

  • How long does it take to prepare German Chocolate Fudge?

The total preparation time is around 3-4 hours, including chilling and setting periods for both the fudge and topping layers.

  • Can I substitute ingredients if I don't have exactly what the recipe calls for?

You can swap chocolate chips with baking chocolate, use different nuts like walnuts instead of pecans, and potentially use light cream instead of evaporated milk, though results might slightly vary.

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German Chocolate Fudge Recipe

German Chocolate Fudge Recipe


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4.8 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Indulgent german chocolate fudge brings rich cocoa and coconut flavors together in a delightful chocolate lover’s dream. Sweet chocolate layers meld with toasted coconut and nutty pecans, creating an irresistible dessert that melts perfectly on your palate.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 cups (680 grams) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded sweetened coconut
  • ½ cup (60 grams) chopped pecans

Dairy and Liquid Ingredients:

  • 1 (14-ounce/396 grams) can sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup (120 milliliters) evaporated milk
  • ¼ cup (57 grams) unsalted butter
  • 2 large egg yolks, lightly beaten

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare a parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking dish, ensuring paper edges extend beyond the pan for effortless removal.
  2. Create the chocolate base by combining chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt in a microwave-safe bowl, gently heating and stirring at 30-second intervals until achieving a silky, uniform consistency.
  3. Transfer the molten chocolate mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to distribute evenly across the surface, then refrigerate for approximately 60 minutes until the layer becomes completely firm.
  4. Craft the coconut-pecan topping by whisking evaporated milk, sugar, butter, and egg yolks together in a saucepan, cooking over medium heat while continuously stirring until the mixture transforms into a thick, coating texture that clings to a spoon.
  5. Remove the saucepan from heat and incorporate vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans, stirring thoroughly to ensure uniform distribution of ingredients.
  6. Allow the topping to cool slightly, then carefully spread over the chilled chocolate layer, gently pressing to ensure secure adhesion.
  7. Return the dessert to the refrigerator and chill for a minimum of two hours, enabling complete setting and flavor melding.
  8. Extract the fudge from the pan using parchment paper edges, slice into precise squares, and serve chilled for maximum enjoyment.

Notes

  • Prevent Sticking: Use parchment paper with overhanging edges to easily lift and remove the fudge without breaking or crumbling the delicate layers.
  • Smooth Melting Technique: Microwave chocolate in short intervals, stirring between each to avoid burning and ensure a silky, uniform texture.
  • Prevent Grainy Topping: Continuously stir the coconut-pecan mixture while cooking to avoid scorching and create a smooth, creamy caramel-like consistency.
  • Customize Texture: Toast pecans and coconut beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch to the fudge’s soft layers.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: German

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
Ethan Miller

Ethan Miller

Founder & Lead Content Writer

Expertise

  • Recipe Development and Testing
  • Food Photography and Styling
  • Culinary Writing and Blogging
  • Ingredient Sourcing and Sustainability Practices

Education

Portland Community College

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and food safety protocols.

Culinary Institute of the Pacific

  • Program: Certificate in International Cuisine
  • Focus: Exploration of global culinary traditions, flavor profiles, and plating artistry.

Ethan’s culinary journey began in his grandmother’s kitchen, where he first learned to play with flavors and ingredients. With formal training in culinary arts and a deep love for international cuisines, Ethan’s goal is to share the joy of cooking with others.

He believes food is all about creativity and bringing people together, one meal at a time. When he’s not experimenting with new dishes, he enjoys hiking in the Oregon wilderness and discovering fresh, local ingredients.

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