
Knock You Naked Brownies: A Decadent Dream of Chocolate, Caramel, and Coconut
There are some names in the culinary world that just grab your attention, promising a level of indulgence that’s almost audacious. “Knock You Naked Brownies” is one such name. While I haven’t had the pleasure of trying this particular iteration yet, the moniker alone conjures images of pure, unadulterated bliss – layers of rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and sweet coconut that could very well sweep you off your feet. It’s the kind of dessert that whispers tales of shared kitchens and cherished family recipes, and I can’t wait to embark on this decadent journey.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 26 minutes
- Total Time: 56 minutes
- Servings: 24 brownies
- Yield: 1 (9×13 inch) pan of brownies
- Dietary Type: Not specified
Ingredients
This recipe is a symphony of classic dessert components, coming together to create something truly extraordinary. The beauty of these brownies lies in their straightforward assembly, allowing each distinct layer to shine.
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix
- 3⁄4 cup butter, melted
- 1⁄3 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (14 ounce) bag caramels
- 1⁄2 cup evaporated milk
- 12 ounces coconut
- 12 ounces chocolate chips
Equipment Needed
To bring these decadent brownies to life, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:
- A 9×13 inch glass baking dish
- A large mixing bowl
- A medium saucepan
- A spatula or spoon for spreading
- A cooling rack
Instructions
Embarking on the creation of these “Knock You Naked Brownies” is an adventure in layering flavors and textures. Follow these steps meticulously, and you’ll be rewarded with a treat that lives up to its name.
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Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Lightly grease your 9×13 inch glass baking dish. This is crucial to ensure your brownies release beautifully after baking.
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In your large mixing bowl, combine the contents of the German chocolate cake mix box. Add the 3⁄4 cup of melted butter, 1⁄3 cup of evaporated milk, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract. Stir these ingredients together until they are just combined. The mixture will be thick and somewhat clumpy, which is exactly what you want.
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Reserve approximately half of this cake mixture. Take the remaining half of the mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This forms the foundational layer of your brownie masterpiece.
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Place the baking dish with the brownie base into the preheated oven and bake for 8 minutes. This initial bake sets the base, preventing it from becoming too gooey when the toppings are added.
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While the brownie base is in the oven, prepare the caramel layer. In your medium saucepan, combine the 14-ounce bag of caramels with the 1⁄2 cup of evaporated milk. Place the saucepan over low to medium heat and stir constantly. You want to melt the caramels completely, ensuring a smooth and luscious sauce. Be patient with this step; low and slow heat prevents scorching.
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Once the caramel mixture is smooth and fully melted, remove it from the heat. Carefully retrieve the partially baked brownie base from the oven.
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Spread the melted caramel mixture evenly over the hot brownie base. Work quickly but carefully, ensuring an even layer across the entire surface.
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Next, sprinkle the 12 ounces of coconut evenly over the melted caramel layer. Follow this by sprinkling the 12 ounces of chocolate chips over the coconut. These toppings will create a delightful texture and flavor contrast with the caramel and brownie base.
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Now, take the remaining half of the cake mixture that you reserved earlier. Crumble this mixture evenly over the top of the chocolate chips and coconut. This top layer acts as a sort of streusel, providing a lovely crumbly texture to the finished brownies.
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Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 18 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for the top layer to be golden brown and the edges to be set.
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Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely. This is perhaps the most challenging step, as the temptation to dive in will be immense! Allowing them to cool ensures the layers set properly, making them much easier to cut and enjoy without falling apart.
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After they have completely cooled, cut the brownies into your desired serving size.
Expert Tips & Tricks
- Butter Quality Matters: For the best flavor, use good quality unsalted butter. It makes a subtle but noticeable difference in the richness of the base.
- Caramel Consistency: If your caramels seem particularly stiff, you can add an extra tablespoon of evaporated milk to the saucepan to help them melt more smoothly. Just be sure not to make it too thin.
- Even Spreading: When spreading the caramel, a gentle nudge with a lightly oiled spatula can prevent it from sticking too much.
- Oven Variations: Ovens can vary significantly. Keep a close eye on the brownies during the final baking stage, as 18-20 minutes is a guideline. If the top begins to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent the pan with foil.
- Cooling is Key: I cannot stress enough the importance of complete cooling. This allows the caramel to firm up and the layers to bind. Patience here will be richly rewarded.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
These “Knock You Naked Brownies” are best served at room temperature, allowing all the flavors and textures to meld beautifully. They are truly a dessert that stands on its own, but a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream can elevate them even further.
For storage, these brownies are surprisingly resilient. They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you find yourself with more leftovers than you can manage in that time, they also freeze beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. To enjoy frozen brownies, simply let them thaw at room temperature.
Nutritional Information
(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx.) | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 405.5 kcal | |
| Calories from Fat | ||
| Total Fat | 26.5 g | 40% |
| Saturated Fat | 16.1 g | 80% |
| Cholesterol | 18.9 mg | 6% |
| Sodium | 236 mg | 9% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 43.8 g | 14% |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.3 g | 17% |
| Sugars | 30.5 g | 121% |
| Protein | 4.3 g | 8% |
Variations & Substitutions
While the classic “Knock You Naked Brownie” recipe is undeniably spectacular, there’s always room for personal flair.
- Nut-Free Option: For those with nut allergies, the pecans can be omitted entirely. The brownies will still be incredibly rich and delicious without them.
- Dark Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Swap out the standard chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate experience.
- Coconut Variations: If you’re not a fan of sweetened shredded coconut, try using unsweetened coconut or even toasted coconut flakes for a different flavor profile.
- Spiced Twist: A pinch of cinnamon or a touch of espresso powder in the brownie base can add another dimension of flavor.
FAQs
Q: Why is it called “Knock You Naked Brownies”?
A: The name suggests the brownies are so incredibly delicious and decadent that they might just “knock you naked” with their sheer indulgence.
Q: Can I use a different type of cake mix instead of German chocolate?
A: While German chocolate cake mix is traditional for this recipe due to its flavor profile complementing the other ingredients, a chocolate or devil’s food cake mix would likely yield a delicious chocolate-forward brownie base.
Q: How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
A: The brownies are done when the edges are set and lightly golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached (not wet batter).
Q: My caramel seems too thick to spread. What should I do?
A: Gently reheat the caramel mixture over low heat, stirring continuously. You can add a tiny bit more evaporated milk, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
Q: Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
A: Yes, absolutely! These brownies are excellent for making a day or two in advance, as the flavors meld beautifully as they sit.
Final Thoughts
There’s a profound satisfaction that comes from creating a dessert that promises such an intense sensory experience. The “Knock You Naked Brownies,” with their layers of texture and robust flavors, are a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. They are the kind of brownies that make a statement, perfect for potlucks, celebrations, or simply when you crave a truly unforgettable treat. I encourage you to gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and prepare to be delighted. And when you do, I’d love to hear all about your “Knock You Naked” experience.