Description
This No-Bake German Chocolate Pie delivers all the rich, decadent flavors of a classic German chocolate cake in an easy-to-make, no-bake dessert. A chocolatey graham cracker crust is topped with a creamy, coconut-pecan filling, making it the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Step 2: Press into Pan: Press the graham cracker mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan. Ensure it is firmly packed to create a solid crust.
Step 3: Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
Step 4: Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
Step 6: Add Coconut and Pecans: Add the sweetened shredded coconut and chopped pecans to the cream cheese mixture. Fold until evenly distributed.
Step 7: Fill the Crust: Pour the filling over the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading evenly to the edges.
Step 8: Chill: Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set completely.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with additional coconut or chopped pecans if desired. Slice and serve chilled.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This No-Bake German Chocolate Pie is a winner because it’s incredibly easy to make, requires no baking, and delivers the classic flavors of German chocolate cake in a delightful pie form. It’s perfect for hot summer days or when you need a quick and impressive dessert.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled as a refreshing dessert.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Dust with cocoa powder or garnish with chocolate shavings for an elegant presentation.
- Serve with fresh berries for added flavor and visual appeal.
Tips:
- For the best texture, chill the pie overnight.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest flavor and creamiest texture.
- Toast the pecans lightly before chopping to enhance their flavor.
- If you don’t have graham cracker crumbs, you can use vanilla wafer crumbs as a substitute.
- To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, you can brush it with melted chocolate before adding the filling.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 0 minutes (no baking required) Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling time)
Nutrition Information: (per serving, approximate) Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
Conclusion
The No-Bake German Chocolate Pie is a fantastic dessert that brings together the beloved flavors of German chocolate cake in a simple, no-fuss recipe. Its creamy, coconut-pecan filling and chocolatey crust make it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or a sweet treat any day of the week, this pie is a must-try for chocolate lovers.
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use a different type of crust?
- Yes, you can substitute the graham cracker crust with an Oreo cookie crust or a chocolate cookie crust for a different flavor profile.
- Can I make this pie ahead of time?
- Absolutely! In fact, this pie is best made ahead of time, as it needs at least 4 hours to chill and set properly. You can make it up to 2 days in advance.
- Can I freeze this pie?
- Yes, you can freeze this pie for up to a month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- What if I don’t like coconut?
- If you’re not a fan of coconut, you can reduce the amount or omit it altogether. Consider adding more pecans or other nuts to compensate for the texture.
- Can I use whipped topping instead of whipping cream?
- While you can use whipped topping for convenience, the texture and flavor won’t be as rich as using freshly whipped heavy cream. Freshly whipped cream provides a lighter, more luxurious mouthfeel.
