If you love the rich, satisfying flavors of pecan pie with a luscious twist of chocolate and coconut, you are in for a treat with this Decadent German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites Recipe. These little bites pack all the traditional goodness of a German chocolate cake combined with the classic southern pecan pie into perfectly portioned mini desserts. They are not only mouthwateringly delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them an absolute must-have for parties, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave a sweet indulgence that’s as fun to eat as it is to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the secret to nailing this recipe. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make these bites so addictive.
- Refrigerated pie crusts (1 package, 2 crusts): Provides a flaky, buttery foundation that’s easy to work with.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1/2 cup): Adds that rich, melty chocolate surprise in every bite.
- Sweetened shredded coconut (1/2 cup): Infuses a sweet chewiness with authentic German chocolate flair.
- Chopped pecans (1/2 cup): Brings essential crunch and nutty flavor synonymous with pecan pie.
- Large eggs (2): Helps bind the filling while enriching the custard-like texture.
- Light corn syrup (1/2 cup): Creates that glossy, caramelized sweetness classic in pecan pies.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds deep molasses notes to complement the nuts and chocolate.
- Unsalted butter, melted (2 tbsp): Boosts richness and smooth mouthfeel.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Elevates overall flavor with warm, aromatic hints.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances every other flavor.
How to Make Decadent German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust Bases
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 24-cup mini muffin pan to prevent sticking. On a lightly floured surface, roll out your refrigerated pie crusts. Use a 2.5 to 3-inch round cookie cutter to cut circles, then gently press each circle into the mini muffin cups forming a perfect little crust base ready to hold the decadent filling.
Step 2: Layer the Fillings
Next, sprinkle a few semi-sweet chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans evenly into each crust shell. This layering ensures every bite has an exciting blend of textures and flavors that celebrate the essence of German chocolate and pecan pie.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and harmonized. This filling is the soul of your bites, delivering sweet, rich custardy notes throughout.
Step 4: Fill and Bake
Spoon about one tablespoon of this luscious mixture over the chocolate, coconut, and pecans in each crust, ensuring the filling covers them completely. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes or until the centers are set and the crusts turn a beautiful, golden brown. Allow the bites to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them carefully to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Decadent German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites Recipe
Garnishes
These bites are delightful as is, but adding a drizzle of melted chocolate or a light dusting of powdered sugar can elevate their appearance and sweetness. You could also sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes or pecan halves on top for extra texture and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Serve these rich bites alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance their sweetness and provide a creamy contrast. Freshly brewed coffee or a robust black tea also pairs wonderfully, complementing the deep chocolate and nutty notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider arranging your Decadent German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites Recipe on a festive platter with edible flowers or holiday sprigs like mint or rosemary for seasonal charm. You could also present them in mini cupcake liners for easy handling at parties or gift them in decorative boxes to wow friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover bites in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to four days. This keeps them fresh while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these bites ahead of time for a special occasion, freeze them once fully cooled. Wrap each bite individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to three months.
Reheating
To enjoy these pie bites warm, simply thaw frozen portions at room temperature and reheat in a 325°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to preserve that flaky crust and prevent sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated dough?
Absolutely! Homemade pie crust will add a personal touch and can be tailored to your preferred texture, but refrigerated crusts are a fantastic shortcut that still yield flaky, delicious results.
Is it possible to make this recipe nut-free?
You can omit the pecans and substitute them with additional coconut or chocolate chips for texture. However, the signature pecan flavor is a key part of the recipe’s charm.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Make sure to press the crust firmly into the muffin pan cups and ensure the oven is fully preheated before baking. You can also blind bake the crusts for a few minutes if you want an extra crisp shell before adding the filling.
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
Yes, doubling the ingredients is straightforward, just be sure to have enough mini muffin pans or bake in batches so each bite bakes evenly to perfection.
What’s the best way to toast coconut and pecans?
Toast them separately on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden and fragrant. This step intensifies the flavors and adds a lovely crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Decadent German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites Recipe is one of my absolute favorite go-to desserts when I want something that feels indulgent yet effortless. Each bite is a gorgeous harmony of sweet chocolate, nutty pecans, and chewy coconut wrapped in tender, flaky crust. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give these little delights a try — they’re sure to become a cherished staple at your dessert table and a crowd-pleaser every time!
Print
Decadent German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 bites 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Decadent German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites are mini dessert treats combining the rich flavors of semi-sweet chocolate, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans inside a buttery pie crust, filled with a sweet, gooey custard-like mixture. Perfectly portioned in a 24-cup mini muffin pan, these bite-sized delights bake to golden perfection with a luscious blend of textures and tastes, making them ideal for holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
Filling and Topping
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pan. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan to prevent sticking.
- Form Pie Crust Base. Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts on a lightly floured surface and use a 2.5 to 3-inch round cookie cutter to cut circles. Press each circle gently into the muffin pan cups to create a crust base.
- Add Chocolate, Coconut, and Pecans. Sprinkle a few semi-sweet chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans evenly into each prepared crust in the muffin pan.
- Mix Filling. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, light corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
- Fill the Crusts. Spoon about one tablespoon of the filling mixture into each mini crust, ensuring it covers the chocolate, coconut, and nuts evenly.
- Bake. Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the centers are set and the crusts turn golden brown.
- Cool and Serve. Allow the bites to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before gently removing them and transferring onto a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- These bites can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- For extra flavor, toast the pecans and shredded coconut before assembling the bites.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bites for an indulgent finishing touch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
