German Chocolate Pie Recipe

This German Chocolate Pie is a decadent, rich dessert that combines the beloved flavors of chocolate, coconut, and pecans. It’s a twist on the classic German chocolate cake, but with a buttery, flaky pie crust to complement the creamy chocolate filling. Perfect for any occasion, this pie offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A rich and indulgent chocolate filling that’s creamy and smooth.
• Topped with a crunchy coconut-pecan layer that adds texture and flavor.
• It’s a twist on the classic German chocolate cake, making it both familiar and unique.
• Easy to prepare ahead for special occasions or gatherings.
• Perfect for chocolate lovers looking for a more elaborate dessert option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• Semisweet chocolate
• Butter
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Evaporated milk
• Sweetened shredded coconut
• Chopped pecans

Directions

1. Prepare the Pie Crust: Preheat your oven and place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges. Set aside.
2. Melt the Chocolate: In a saucepan, melt the semisweet chocolate and butter over medium heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat.
3. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually stir in the melted chocolate mixture and evaporated milk until fully combined.
4. Add the Coconut and Pecans: Stir in the sweetened shredded coconut and chopped pecans into the chocolate mixture.
5. Bake the Pie: Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is slightly puffed.
6. Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. You can serve it as is or top it with whipped cream.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 slices
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 45-50 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Nut-Free Version: If you’re allergic to pecans, you can substitute them with more shredded coconut or leave them out entirely.
• Dark Chocolate Version: Swap semisweet chocolate for dark chocolate to give the pie a more intense, rich flavor.
• Crust Options: Use a graham cracker crust for added texture and flavor, or try a chocolate cookie crust for extra chocolate indulgence.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pie crust to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: You can enjoy the pie cold, or reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey treat.
• Freezing: Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

FAQs

What is the difference between German chocolate and regular chocolate?

German chocolate is a sweeter, milder chocolate with a higher sugar content compared to regular dark or semisweet chocolate.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can make this pie a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Absolutely. A store-bought pie crust works just as well and saves time, but a homemade crust adds a special touch.

Can I use unsweetened coconut?

For this recipe, sweetened coconut is recommended to balance the rich chocolate flavor, but unsweetened coconut can be used if you prefer a less sweet pie.

How do I know when the pie is done?

The pie is done when the filling is set and the top is puffed. You can insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the pie is ready.

Can I make this pie without nuts?

Yes, you can omit the pecans if you have a nut allergy or simply prefer not to include them.

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

You can substitute semisweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer flavor or milk chocolate for a milder taste.

How should I serve German Chocolate Pie?

Serve the pie at room temperature or chilled, and it’s delicious with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

How long can I keep German Chocolate Pie?

The pie will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I freeze the pie?

Yes, you can freeze the pie for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn and thaw in the fridge before serving.

Conclusion

German Chocolate Pie is a show-stopping dessert that combines the rich, creamy flavors of chocolate with the crunch of coconut and pecans. It’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something truly indulgent. With easy preparation and plenty of variations to suit different tastes, this pie is a must-try for any dessert lover!

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