Name: Fudgy Coconut Brownies with Chocolate Ganache Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted; 1 tablespoon neutral tasting oil (canola); 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; Pinch of salt; 1/2 cup shredded coconut; 1 3.5 ounce bar dark chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup coconut cream; 1/3 cup shredded coconut, toasted; Flakey sea salt for sprinkling

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 24 reviews

If you are craving a rich and indulgent treat that perfectly balances intense chocolate flavor with a tropical twist, this Fudgy Coconut Brownies with Chocolate Ganache Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine biting into a brownie that is decadently moist and fudgy, bursting with subtle hints of shredded coconut, and then crowned with a silky chocolate ganache topped with toasted coconut and a sprinkle of flakey sea salt. It’s a dessert that feels luxurious yet comforting, making it an instant favorite for gatherings or simply treating yourself after a long day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows five square chocolate brownies placed on a dark slate board. Each brownie has a thick, dark brown base layer with a slightly rough texture. On top of each brownie is a light layer of golden toasted coconut flakes, giving a crumbly texture and a mix of pale yellow and light brown colors. The brownies are spread out, showing some crumbs around them on the slate. The background beneath the slate has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential to achieving the perfect texture, taste, and appearance of the brownies. Each element plays its part in creating that irresistible fudgy consistency and the rich, creamy ganache topping.

Unsalted butter, 1/2 cup: Melted butter adds moisture and a velvety richness that forms the base of the brownies.
Neutral tasting oil, 1 tablespoon: Helps keep the brownies extra moist without overpowering the chocolate flavor.
Sugar, 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons: Sweetens the brownies and balances the deep cocoa bitterness perfectly.
Large eggs, 2: Bind everything together and contribute to that fudgy texture.
Vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons: Enhances the chocolate’s complexity with warm, inviting notes.
All-purpose flour, 1/2 cup: Provides structure without making the brownies cakey.
Cocoa powder, 1/2 cup: The heart of chocolate flavor, delivering richness and depth.
Pinch of salt: Amplifies the chocolate and balances sweetness.
Shredded coconut, 1/2 cup: Adds pleasant chewiness and a tropical flair inside the brownies.
Dark chocolate bar, 3.5 ounces (for ganache): Creates a luscious and glossy topping that intensifies the chocolate experience.
Coconut cream, 1/2 cup (for ganache): Gives the ganache a silky texture with a subtle coconut undertone.
Toasted shredded coconut, 1/3 cup (for garnish): Adds crunch and visual appeal on top.
Flakey sea salt (for garnish): A sprinkle finishes the brownies by elevating all the flavors.

How to Make Fudgy Coconut Brownies with Chocolate Ganache Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s at the ideal temperature when your batter is ready. Then, either grease an 8×8 inch baking pan with oil or line it neatly with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes for easy brownie removal after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat together the melted butter, oil, and sugar until they are fully combined and a little glossy. Next, add in the eggs and vanilla extract, beating them into the mixture to bring everything together smoothly. This step ensures your brownies will have that moist, fudgy texture you are after.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Fold in Coconut

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and the pinch of salt to evenly distribute the dry components. Gradually fold this mixture into the wet ingredients, being careful not to over-mix; just enough to blend fully. Finally, fold in the shredded coconut to evenly spread its tropical charm throughout the batter.

Step 4: Bake Your Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes until the surface is set but still soft when touched lightly. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Cooling is crucial to help the brownies set up nicely before adding the ganache.

Step 5: Make and Add the Chocolate Ganache

While the brownies cool, prepare your ganache by melting the dark chocolate and coconut cream together. Use a double boiler for gentle heat or microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring in between until smooth and glossy. Spread the ganache evenly over the cooled brownies with a spatula. Then sprinkle the toasted shredded coconut and a light dusting of flakey sea salt on top for that perfect finishing touch.

Step 6: Cut and Enjoy

Slice your brownies into 9 large or 18 smaller pieces, depending on your occasion. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of fudgy chocolate, coconut chewiness, rich ganache, and a hint of saltiness that will keep you coming back for more.

How to Serve Fudgy Coconut Brownies with Chocolate Ganache Recipe

The image shows a white rectangular baking dish filled with six thick, rectangular bars of dark brown chocolate dessert arranged in two rows of three. Each bar is topped with a layer of golden brown toasted coconut flakes, adding a crunchy texture and light color contrast to the rich dark base. The dessert has a dense, smooth texture with visible lines separating each bar. The baking dish rests on a surface with a white marbled texture, enhancing the overall clean and simple presentation. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your brownies to the next level, don’t skip the toasted shredded coconut and flakey sea salt garnishes. They contribute a lovely texture contrast and enhance the overall flavor profile, bringing out the coconut’s natural sweetness and complementing the bittersweet ganache beautifully.

Side Dishes

These brownies are divine on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream creates a wonderful balance between warm and cold, creamy and fudgy. Fresh fruit such as raspberries or sliced mango adds a refreshing brightness that contrasts nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or gift-giving, arrange the brownies in decorative boxes or stack them on a pretty dessert stand. Drizzle extra melted chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar on top for that extra flair. You can even sandwich two brownie squares with a layer of vanilla or coconut ice cream for an irresistible dessert treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled and ganached, store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and fudgy. If you prefer chilled brownies, they can be stored covered in the fridge for up to a week, though letting them sit out a bit before enjoying will soften the chocolate.

Freezing

You can freeze these brownies for longer storage. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to eat, and the fudgy texture will remain intact.

Reheating

To bring back the fresh-from-the-oven warmth, briefly microwave a brownie for 10-15 seconds. This softens the chocolate ganache and enhances the gooey chocolate feel. Avoid overheating to keep the ganache glossy and prevent drying out the brownie.

FAQs

Can I use sweetened shredded coconut instead of unsweetened?

Yes, you can, but keep in mind that sweetened coconut will add extra sugar, so you might want to adjust the sugar in your recipe slightly to avoid over-sweetness. The toasted coconut topping is best unsweetened to balance flavors.

What type of dark chocolate works best for the ganache?

Choose a dark chocolate bar with at least 60% cocoa content for the best balance of richness and smooth melting. Higher percentages can be used for a more intense chocolate flavor but may make the ganache a bit more bitter.

Can I substitute coconut cream with regular heavy cream?

Absolutely, heavy cream is a suitable substitute if you don’t have coconut cream on hand. However, using coconut cream enhances the coconut flavor and adds richness that complements the shredded coconut inside the brownies.

How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?

The brownies are done when the edges are set and the center is still slightly soft but not liquid. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. This ensures the brownies remain fudgy rather than cakey.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, doubling the recipe is straightforward! Just use a larger baking pan or two pans and adjust baking time accordingly, usually adding a few extra minutes. Keep an eye on the brownies to avoid overbaking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Fudgy Coconut Brownies with Chocolate Ganache Recipe—it brings together the cozy warmth of brownies and the tropical brightness of coconut in a way that feels both nostalgic and exciting. Whether you’re making them for a loved one, a party, or a quiet night in, these brownies promise to delight with every luscious bite. I can’t wait for you to try them and discover your own favorite way to enjoy this irresistible treat!