Indulge in the ultimate treat with these decadent Coconut Chocolate Layer Brownies. A rich, fudgy brownie base is topped with a creamy coconut layer and finished with a smooth chocolate ganache. Perfect for any occasion, these brownies are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
For the Coconut Layer:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 14 ounces shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brownie Layer:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until well combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Stir in the chocolate chips (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- Let the brownie layer cool completely in the pan.
2. Prepare the Coconut Layer:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the shredded coconut and mix until well combined.
- Spread the coconut mixture evenly over the cooled brownie layer.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
- Place the chopped chocolate in a heat-safe bowl.
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
- Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 1 minute.
- Gently whisk the chocolate and cream together until smooth and glossy.
- Pour the chocolate ganache over the coconut layer and spread evenly.
4. Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the brownies for at least 1-2 hours, or until the ganache is set.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the brownies out of the pan.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate for the ganache.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the ganache before it sets for a salted chocolate effect.
- Toasted coconut flakes can be sprinkled on top of the ganache for added texture and flavor.
- For a peppermint twist, add peppermint extract to the ganache.
Enjoy your delicious Coconut Chocolate Layer Brownies!