German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites: The Perfect Bite-Sized Indulgence

If you’re a fan of German chocolate cake and pecan pie, prepare to fall in love with these German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites. They offer all the rich, nutty, chocolatey goodness you crave in a perfectly portioned bite. Whether you’re entertaining guests, looking for a unique dessert for the holidays, or just indulging your sweet tooth, these bites are sure to steal the show.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites combine two iconic desserts into one delectable treat. The chocolatey crust gives a delightful crunch that balances the gooey pecan and coconut filling. They’re easy to make, transport well, and can be made ahead of time—making them a dream for potlucks, holiday parties, and dessert platters.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking sheet (for toasting pecans)
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9”x13” baking pan
• Aluminum foil (for easy lifting and slicing)
• Oven mitts
• Sharp knife (for cutting into squares)

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 & 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 3/4 cup cold butter, cubed
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

For the Filling:

• 3 cups pecan halves (toasted)
• 1 & 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• 3 large eggs
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar
• 3/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut

Instructions

Toast the Pecans

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the pecan halves evenly on a baking sheet and toast for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through. Allow them to cool.

Prepare the Crust

3. In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, confectioners’ sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder.
4. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9”x13” baking pan.
6. Bake for 15 minutes.

Add the Chocolate Layer

7. Sprinkle the semisweet chocolate chips over the hot crust. Let them melt slightly, then spread evenly with a spatula.
8. Cool the crust for 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

9. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until lightly beaten.
10. Add the light brown sugar, light corn syrup, melted butter, flaked coconut, and toasted pecans. Stir to combine.

Bake the Filling

11. Pour the filling mixture over the cooled crust.
12. Bake for 28-34 minutes or until the filling is set.

Cool and Serve

13. Let the pan cool completely at room temperature.
14. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour for easy slicing.
15. Use the foil overhang to lift the bars from the pan, cut into squares, and serve.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Skip Toasting the Pecans: Toasting brings out their natural oils and enhances the nutty flavor.
• Chill Before Slicing: Refrigerating the bites makes cutting clean squares much easier.
• Foil Overhang Trick: Lining the pan with foil, leaving extra to hang over the sides, makes it easy to lift the whole dessert out for cutting.

Variations

• Bourbon Bliss: Add a splash of bourbon to the filling for a boozy kick.
• Extra Chocolate Drizzle: Melt additional chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled bites for an extra decadent touch.
• Nut Substitution: Not a pecan fan? Swap them out for walnuts or almonds.

Storing Leftovers

Store these bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve these bites with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For an elegant touch, pair them with a dessert wine or a bourbon-based cocktail.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! These bites actually taste better after sitting for a day, as the flavors meld and the texture firms up.

What if I don’t have corn syrup? You can substitute it with maple syrup or honey, but the texture may be slightly different.

Can I freeze these bites? Absolutely. Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

Do I have to use coconut? Not at all! If you’re not a fan of coconut, simply omit it for a more traditional pecan pie flavor.

Final Thoughts

These German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites are the perfect marriage of two beloved desserts. They’re rich, nutty, chocolatey, and guaranteed to become a new favorite. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or a casual treat, they’re sure to impress.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family! And if you want more indulgent dessert recipes delivered straight to your inbox, subscribe to the blog. Happy baking!