Decadent German Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Irresistible Decadent German Chocolate Fudge Recipe For Sweet Lovers

Chocolate lovers swoon over this rich german chocolate fudge that blends deep cocoa notes with silky smooth textures.

Sweet kernels of toasted pecans dance through each creamy bite.

Dark chocolate provides an intense backdrop for the velvety fudge experience.

Homemade treats like these connect us to cherished kitchen memories.

Layers of caramel-like coconut and chocolate create an irresistible dessert sensation.

Crafted with simple ingredients, this fudge promises to delight even the most discerning sweet tooth.

You’ll find yourself reaching for just one more delectable square.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time:

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 180 kcal

Servings: 13

German Chocolate Fudge Ingredient Guide

For Fudge Base:
  • Chocolate Chips: Rich, velvety base that creates smooth and decadent texture, choose high-quality dark or semi-sweet chips for intense chocolate flavor.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Provides creamy sweetness and helps bind ingredients, select full-fat version for best consistency.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances chocolate's depth, use pure vanilla for authentic, robust flavor.
  • Salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies overall taste, opt for fine sea salt.
For Coconut-Pecan Topping:
  • Evaporated Milk: Creates silky, rich caramel-like sauce, select full-fat version for luxurious texture.
  • Sugar: Sweetens and thickens topping, granulated white sugar works perfectly.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create smooth caramel, use unsalted for better control of salt content.
  • Egg Yolks: Provide creamy thickness and bind ingredients, ensure fresh eggs at room temperature.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, aromatic undertone, use pure extract for best flavor.
For Garnish:
  • Shredded Coconut: Adds tropical texture and sweetness, choose unsweetened for balanced flavor.
  • Chopped Pecans: Brings nutty crunch and depth, toast lightly for enhanced flavor before adding.

Tools That Help You Stir, Pour, and Chill Fudge

  • 8×8-inch baking dish: Perfect for creating a neat, even fudge layer.
  • Parchment paper: Essential for easy removal and clean cutting of the fudge.
  • Microwave-safe bowl: Needed for melting chocolate chips smoothly.
  • Spatula: Great for spreading fudge and topping evenly.
  • Saucepan: Crucial for preparing the coconut-pecan topping.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Necessary for accurate ingredient measurements.
  • Sharp knife: Helps in cutting clean, precise fudge squares.

How to Make German Chocolate Fudge with Layers

  • Prep the Baking Vessel

Grab your 8×8-inch pan and line it with parchment paper, creating little handles on the sides so you can easily lift out your delicious creation later.

  • Craft the Chocolate Base

Toss chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt into a microwave-safe bowl. Zap in short bursts, stirring between each, until the mixture transforms into a silky, glossy pool of chocolatey goodness.

  • Create the First Layer

Pour the molten chocolate mixture into your prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Pop it in the fridge for about an hour to firm up.

  • Whip Up the Coconut-Pecan Topping

In a saucepan, blend evaporated milk, sugar, butter, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and looks like a luscious caramel sauce.

  • Finish with Tropical Crunch

Pull the pan off the heat and fold in vanilla, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Let the mixture cool slightly, then lavishly spread over the chilled chocolate layer.

  • Chill and Slice

Refrigerate for a couple of hours until completely set. Lift out the fudge using the parchment handles, slice into squares, and indulge in your decadent creation.

Tips for Topping, Cutting, or Freezing Fudge

  • Prepare the fudge a day in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, allowing flavors to meld and intensify.
  • Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, making this dessert safe for those with gluten sensitivities without compromising taste or texture.
  • Lightly toast coconut and pecans in a dry skillet before adding to the topping, which deepens their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crispy dimension.
  • Swap regular sugar with a monk fruit sweetener or stevia blend to reduce overall sugar content while maintaining the rich, decadent taste of the original recipe.
  • Wrap individual fudge pieces in wax paper or plastic wrap before storing in the refrigerator to prevent them from sticking together and preserve their perfect texture.

Serve This Fudge at Holidays or as Gifts

  • Party Platter Perfection: Create a gorgeous dessert board with these German Chocolate Fudge squares arranged beautifully alongside fresh berries, whipped cream dollops, and chocolate shavings for a stunning presentation.
  • Sweet Gift Idea: Wrap individual fudge squares in clear cellophane with a festive ribbon, making them perfect homemade gifts for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions that will delight friends and family.
  • Coffee Companion: Serve small fudge squares alongside espresso or dark roast coffee for an indulgent afternoon treat that complements the rich chocolate and nutty coconut flavors beautifully.
  • Dessert Pairing Magic: Enhance the fudge experience by serving with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate the decadent chocolate and coconut flavor profile.

Storing Fudge Without It Getting Sticky

  • Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Keep away from strong-smelling foods to maintain its rich chocolate flavor.
  • Wrap individual fudge squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months for long-term enjoyment.
  • Place wax paper between fudge layers to prevent sticking when storing multiple pieces together. This keeps each square looking picture-perfect.
  • Always let fudge sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance its creamy texture.
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Decadent German Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Decadent German Chocolate Fudge Recipe


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4.6 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 13 1x

Description

Rich chocolate meets coconut bliss in this divine German chocolate fudge recipe. Sweet layers of creamy chocolate and toasted coconut create an irresistible dessert you won’t be able to resist.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (710 ml) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 (14 oz/397 g) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup (120 ml) evaporated milk
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup (57 g) unsalted butter
  • 2 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (85 g) shredded sweetened coconut
  • ½ cup (60 g) chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Pan Preparation: Outfit an 8×8-inch baking vessel with parchment paper, ensuring extended edges for effortless extraction.
  2. Fudge Foundation: Meld chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt in a microwave-safe container. Heat in brief 30-second bursts, stirring intermittently until achieving a silky, uniform consistency.
  3. Initial Layer Setting: Transfer the molten chocolate mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Chill in the refrigerator for approximately one hour until solidified.
  4. Decadent Topping Creation: Combine evaporated milk, sugar, butter, and egg yolks in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, continuously stirring until the mixture transforms into a thick, spoon-coating texture within 5-7 minutes.
  5. Topping Finalization: Remove from heat and incorporate vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans, blending thoroughly. Allow slight cooling.
  6. Assembly and Chilling: Distribute the coconut-pecan mixture evenly across the chilled fudge layer, gently pressing to secure. Refrigerate for a minimum of two hours until completely set.
  7. Serving Presentation: Extract the fudge using parchment edges, slice into elegant squares, and indulge in the rich, luxurious treat.

Notes

  • Use low microwave power and stir frequently to prevent chocolate from burning or seizing, ensuring smooth, glossy texture.
  • Cook coconut-pecan mixture slowly and stir continuously to achieve thick, caramel-like consistency without burning egg yolks.
  • Allow complete refrigeration for at least 2 hours to ensure fudge sets properly and cuts cleanly into perfect squares.
  • Substitute dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut milk for vegan version, or use gluten-free chocolate to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: German

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 13
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 50 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Michael Thompson

Michael Thompson

Founder & Culinary Director

Expertise

Classical & Contemporary Cooking Techniques, Global Cuisine Appreciation, Nutrition & Menu Engineering, Sustainable Cooking Practices, Farm-to-Table Cuisine

Education

Southwestern Oregon Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts, Associate of Applied Science
  • Focus: Emphasis on mastering core culinary competencies, like safety and sanitation, hot, cold, and pastry techniques, while cultivating appreciation of global cuisines and developing operational skills in nutrition, menu design, costing, purchasing, and supervisory management.

Michael grew up in Oregon, where he learned early that food tastes better when it’s fresh, local, and made with care. 

After earning his degree from the Southwestern Oregon Community College, he focused his career on teaching others how to cook with the seasons, reduce food waste, and reconnect with what’s on their plate.

Michael keeps his cooking simple, sustainable, and full of flavor. His favorite part of the process? Watching people realize how easy and satisfying it can be to cook a single great meal from scratch.

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