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German Chocolate Pie

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Introduction

If you love the rich flavors of German chocolate cake, you’ll adore this German Chocolate Pie! This indulgent dessert features a creamy, silky chocolate filling, nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust, and topped with a sweet and crunchy coconut-pecan topping. Every bite is a perfect balance of chocolatey richness, nutty crunch, and coconut sweetness.

Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or when you just crave an extra-special dessert, this easy-to-make pie will impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Rich & Creamy – A luscious chocolate custard filling that melts in your mouth.
✔ Crunchy & Nutty – The coconut-pecan topping adds a delightful texture.
✔ Easy to Make – Uses simple ingredients with straightforward steps.
✔ Perfect for Chocolate Lovers – A must-try for anyone who loves deep, chocolatey flavors.

Ingredients Needed

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Chocolate Filling:

  • 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 large egg yolks, beaten
  • 6 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Coconut-Pecan Topping:

  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup evaporated milk
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • 2 large egg yolks, beaten
  • ¾ cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • ¾ cup chopped pecans
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine:
  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Granulated sugar
  • Melted butter
  1. Mix until crumbs are evenly coated.
  2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
  3. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let the crust cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Filling

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together:
  • Granulated sugar
  • Cornstarch
  • Salt
  1. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, ensuring a smooth mixture.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
  3. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
  4. Temper the egg yolks: Gradually whisk a small amount of the hot mixture into the beaten yolks.
  5. Return the yolk mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in:
  • Chopped semisweet chocolate
  • Unsalted butter
  • Vanilla extract
  1. Stir until smooth and fully combined.
  2. Pour the warm chocolate filling into the cooled crust.
  3. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the filling’s surface.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, until fully set.

Step 3: Prepare the Coconut-Pecan Topping

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine:
  • Granulated sugar
  • Evaporated milk
  • Unsalted butter
  • Beaten egg yolks
  1. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
  2. Boil for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
  3. Stir in:
  • Shredded coconut
  • Chopped pecans
  • Vanilla extract
  1. Allow the topping to cool slightly before assembling the pie.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

  1. Spread the coconut-pecan topping evenly over the chilled chocolate filling.
  2. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the topping to firm up.
See also  Simple Apple Pie Recipe

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

  1. Slice and serve the German Chocolate Pie chilled.
  2. Garnish with extra pecans, chocolate shavings, or whipped cream for a beautiful presentation.

Tips for the Perfect German Chocolate Pie

✔ Use High-Quality Chocolate – The better the chocolate, the richer the flavor.
✔ Let the Chocolate Filling Set Fully – Refrigerating for at least 4 hours ensures a firm texture.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Egg Yolks – Stir constantly to prevent curdling in the filling and topping.
✔ Toast the Pecans & Coconut – Toasting enhances the nutty, caramelized flavors.
✔ Make Ahead – This pie tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld together.

Variations & Customizations

Extra Chocolatey Version

  • Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the filling for an even deeper chocolate flavor.

Caramel Pecan Topping

  • Drizzle caramel sauce over the coconut-pecan topping before chilling.

No-Bake German Chocolate Pie

  • Use a store-bought chocolate cookie crust and prepare the filling without baking.

Nut-Free Version

  • Replace pecans with toasted oats or sunflower seeds for crunch.

Serving Suggestions

🍽 With Whipped Cream – A light, airy contrast to the rich pie.
🍽 With Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that enhances the chocolate flavor.
🍽 With a Hot Coffee or Espresso – The bitterness balances the sweetness.
🍽 With a Chocolate Drizzle – For extra decadence, drizzle melted chocolate before serving.

How to Store & Freeze

Refrigeration

  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

Freezing

  • Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutritional Information

⏰ Prep Time: 20 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 15 minutes
⏳ Chilling Time: 5 hours
🍽 Servings: 8

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories ~450 kcal
Protein ~6g
Carbs ~55g
Fat ~25g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a pre-made crust?

Yes! A store-bought graham cracker or chocolate cookie crust works perfectly.

2. Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! This pie tastes even better the next day. Prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate.

3. How do I prevent a runny filling?

  • Ensure the filling boils for at least 1 minute before adding egg yolks.
  • Let the pie chill completely before slicing.

4. Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?

Yes! Dark chocolate (70% cocoa or more) will give a richer, deeper flavor.

5. What’s the best way to toast pecans and coconut?

  • Spread pecans and coconut on a baking sheet.
  • Toast at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Conclusion

This German Chocolate Pie is a heavenly dessert, blending rich chocolate custard with sweet coconut-pecan topping. With its silky, creamy filling and crunchy topping, this pie is guaranteed to impress family and friends.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a slice of chocolate indulgence!