German Chocolate Pie is a decadent and indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, coconut, and pecans in a flaky pie crust.
Originating from the United States, this pie is inspired by the traditional German chocolate cake and is a favorite among chocolate lovers.
The filling is made with a luscious blend of sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and egg yolks, topped with a generous layer of toasted coconut and chopped pecans.
Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream, German Chocolate Pie is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your family and friends at any gathering or celebration.
Ingredients
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Oven
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges as desired.
In a mixing bowl, combine the sweetened shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Spread evenly over the bottom of the pie crust.
In another mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
Pour the chocolate mixture over the coconut and pecans in the pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges of the crust are golden brown.
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely before serving.
Serve slices of German Chocolate Pie with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of pie)
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 6g
Health Benefits
“German Chocolate Pie” is a delicious dessert that combines the flavors of German chocolate cake with the creamy texture of pie.
While it may not be the healthiest option due to its rich ingredients like chocolate, butter, and sugar, there are still some potential health benefits associated with certain components:
Antioxidants from Chocolate: German chocolate pie typically contains chocolate, which is rich in antioxidants called flavonoids.
Flavonoids have been associated with various health benefits, including improved heart health, lowered blood pressure, and reduced inflammation.
Nutrients from Nuts: Many German chocolate pie recipes include pecans or other nuts in the filling or as a topping.
Nuts are a good source of healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
They have been linked to improved heart health, weight management, and reduced risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and certain cancers.
Mood-boosting Effects: Chocolate contains compounds such as phenylethylamine (PEA) and serotonin, which can positively affect mood and provide a temporary mood lift.
Satiety: Although German chocolate pie is high in calories and sugar, its rich and indulgent nature may satisfy cravings with a smaller portion, potentially helping to prevent overeating.
Enjoyment and Mental Health: While not a direct health benefit, enjoying indulgent desserts like German chocolate pie in moderation can contribute to overall well-being by providing pleasure and satisfaction.
However, it’s essential to enjoy treats like German chocolate pie in moderation, as they are often high in sugar, saturated fats, and calories, which can contribute to weight gain, heart disease, and other health issues when consumed in excess.
Pairing a slice with fresh fruit or a small serving of yogurt can help balance the meal and add some additional nutrients.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought pie crust if you prefer. Simply follow the package instructions for baking the crust before adding the filling.
2. Can I use sweetened cocoa powder instead of unsweetened cocoa powder?
Yes, you can use sweetened cocoa powder, but you may need to adjust the amount of sugar in the filling to avoid making the pie overly sweet.
3. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie up to one day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving or reheat individual slices in the microwave if desired.
4. Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to use chopped walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different flavor profile.
5. Can I freeze leftovers of German Chocolate Pie?
Yes, you can freeze leftover pie slices in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.