Decadent German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites

Introduction

If you’re looking for the ultimate dessert to wow your guests this holiday season, these Decadent German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites are the answer. They combine the rich, nutty flavor of toasted pecans with the sweet, gooey filling of a pecan pie, all wrapped up in a chocolatey, buttery crust. As soon as I made these for the first time, my family immediately declared them a new favorite. They’re the perfect size for snacking, and their bite-sized form makes them an ideal choice for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or any special occasion. The contrast of flavors and textures—crispy crust, gooey filling, and a touch of coconut—make these bites truly irresistible. Plus, the hint of chocolate adds a luxurious twist to the classic pecan pie.

Ingredients

• For the Crust:
• 3 cups (330g) pecan halves
• 1 & 3/4 cups (210g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (82g) confectioners’ sugar
• 3/4 cup (170g) cold butter, cubed
• 1/4 cup (21g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• For the Filling:
• 1 & 1/2 cups (255g) semisweet chocolate chips
• 3 large eggs
• 3/4 cup (150g) firmly packed light brown sugar
• 3/4 cup (177ml) light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (85g) sweetened flaked coconut

Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange the pecans in a single layer on a shallow baking pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly toasted, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting.
3. Remove the pecans from the oven and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

1. Line the bottom and sides of a 9″x 13″x 2″ baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the two short sides for easy removal later. Grease the foil with cooking spray or butter.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, confectioners’ sugar, and cocoa powder.
3. Add the cold cubed butter and, using a pastry blender or your fingers, combine until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
4. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan and about 3/4-inch up the sides of the pan.
5. Bake the crust for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the crust. Let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and lightly beat them.
2. Add the brown sugar, corn syrup, and melted butter. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and fully combined.
3. Stir in the toasted pecans and sweetened flaked coconut until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie Bites

1. Pour the pecan and coconut filling evenly over the partially baked crust.
2. Bake for 28-34 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the filling has set. It should be firm in the center and slightly puffed around the edges.
3. Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack. After they’ve cooled, refrigerate them for about an hour to allow the filling to firm up further.

Step 5: Cut and Serve

1. Using the foil overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and place them on a cutting board.
2. Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares, and serve!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 bar (based on 16 servings)
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 85mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 28g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 65mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient choices and portion sizes.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including cooling and refrigeration)
• Yield: 16 servings

How to Serve

• At Holiday Gatherings: These German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites are perfect for serving at holiday parties, Thanksgiving, or Christmas gatherings. They’re easy to eat and packed with flavor.
• For Dessert Buffets: Serve these alongside other treats at dessert buffets. Their bite-sized form makes them ideal for grazing.
• With Coffee or Tea: Pair these delicious bars with your favorite hot beverage—coffee, hot chocolate, or tea—for a cozy snack.
• As a Gift: These treats make wonderful homemade gifts. Wrap them up in a decorative tin or box for a sweet holiday present.
• With a Scoop of Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, serve these bites with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream.

Additional Tips

1. Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans before using them enhances their flavor and gives the filling a richer taste. Don’t skip this step!
2. Don’t Overmix the Dough: When preparing the crust, mix the ingredients just until they come together. Overmixing will lead to a dense crust.
3. Use Quality Chocolate: The semisweet chocolate chips are a key ingredient, so make sure you’re using a good-quality brand for the best flavor.
4. Let It Cool Properly: Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack to ensure the filling sets properly before cutting into them.
5. Chill for Easy Cutting: Once the bars are cool, refrigerate them for an hour to help them firm up and make cutting easier.

Recipe Variations

1. Milk Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites: Swap out the semisweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate chips for a sweeter variation.
2. Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites: Use dark chocolate chips for a more intense, slightly bitter flavor that balances the sweetness of the corn syrup.
3. Coconut-Free Version: If you’re not a fan of coconut, simply omit the coconut from the filling. These pecan pie bites will still be delicious!
4. Spiced Version: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spiced flavor perfect for the colder months.
5. Gluten-Free Version: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

• With Whipped Cream: Top each bite with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
• On a Dessert Platter: These bites are great for dessert platters, paired with other small treats like mini cupcakes, cookies, or chocolate truffles.
• After a Holiday Meal: Serve as a rich and decadent dessert after a holiday meal, alongside coffee or hot chocolate.
• For Afternoon Tea: Pair these bites with an afternoon tea for a special treat to enjoy with friends or family.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store these German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a warm climate, it’s better to refrigerate them to prevent the chocolate from softening.
• Freezing: These bars freeze well for up to 3 months. To freeze, cut the bars into squares and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Refrigeration: If you want to store them for longer periods, keep them in the refrigerator, especially if the weather is warm. They will last for up to 2 weeks in the fridge.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use pre-chopped pecans?

• Yes, pre-chopped pecans are fine to use in this recipe if you don’t want to chop them yourself.

1. Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light corn syrup?

• Yes, you can use dark corn syrup. It will slightly change the flavor, adding a deeper, molasses-like taste.

1. Do I need to refrigerate these bars?

• Yes, it’s best to refrigerate them to ensure the filling sets properly and remains firm.

1. Can I use other nuts in place of pecans?

• Yes, you can substitute walnuts, almonds, or even cashews, but pecans are traditional for pecan pie flavor.

1. Can I use graham cracker crumbs in the crust instead of flour?

• While graham cracker crumbs will work, it will give a different texture and flavor. The original crust made with flour is more traditional for pecan pie.

1. How do I know when the bars are done baking?

• The edges should be golden, and the filling should be set and firm. If you press gently on the center, it should spring back

.

7. Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?

• Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

7. Can I make these ahead of time?

• Yes, these bars can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container.

7. Can I omit the coconut?

• Yes, you can omit the coconut for a more traditional pecan pie flavor.

7. Do I need to use foil in the pan?

• Using foil is highly recommended as it makes removing the bars from the pan much easier, especially for cutting.

Conclusion

These Decadent German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites are a perfect blend of rich chocolate, buttery crust, sweet filling, and toasted pecans, making them a crowd favorite at any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays, attending a potluck, or just looking for an indulgent treat, these bites are sure to impress. The best part? They’re easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, so you can enjoy the holiday fun without spending all day in the kitchen. These little squares of deliciousness are guaranteed to become a beloved recipe in your holiday rotation.

Print