Why Make This Recipe
German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites are a delicious treat that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate and the crunch of pecans. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or simply a sweet craving. Their combination of ingredients creates a unique taste that everyone will love. Plus, they are easy to make, making them a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers.
How to Make German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites
Ingredients:
- 3 cups pecan halves
- 1 & 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 3/4 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 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
Directions:
1️⃣ Toast Pecans: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the pecans for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through.
2️⃣ Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix the flour, confectioners’ sugar, and cocoa powder. Add the cold butter and blend until the mixture is coarse. Press this mixture into a greased 9”x13” pan. Bake for 15 minutes.
3️⃣ Add Chocolate: Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the baked crust and allow it to cool for 30 minutes.
4️⃣ Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Then add the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, coconut, and pecans. Pour this filling over the cooled crust.
5️⃣ Bake: Bake the mixture for 28-34 minutes, until set. Once done, let it cool completely, then refrigerate for 1 hour.
6️⃣ Serve: Use the foil overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares and enjoy! 🎉
How to Serve German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites
These pie bites are best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. You can enjoy them plain, or dust them with some extra confectioners’ sugar for a lovely presentation. They also pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side!
How to Store German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites
Store the leftover German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn!
Tips to Make German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites
- Make sure your butter is cold when mixing the crust. This will help create a flaky texture.
- Toasting the pecans adds great flavor; be careful not to overdo it.
- If you prefer a certain type of chocolate, feel free to swap the semisweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate or dark chocolate.
- Letting the pie bites cool completely before cutting helps maintain their shape.
Variation
If you want to add a twist, try adding a splash of vanilla extract or even a pinch of sea salt to the filling for added flavor. You can also substitute almonds or walnuts for pecans if you desire a different nutty taste.
FAQs
Can I use unsweetened cocoa powder?
Yes, using unsweetened cocoa powder is fine. It adds depth to the chocolate flavor without additional sweetness.
What can I use instead of corn syrup?
You can substitute corn syrup with maple syrup or honey, but be aware that it may change the flavor slightly.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bites can be made a day or two in advance. Just be sure to store them properly in the fridge.
German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1 cup cold butter, cubed Ensure butter is cold for flaky texture.
- 1.75 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.75 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 0.25 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Adds depth to the chocolate flavor.
For the filling
- 3 large eggs
- 0.75 cup light brown sugar
- 0.75 cup light corn syrup Can be substituted with maple syrup or honey.
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
- 3 cups pecan halves Toasting enhances the flavor.
- 1.5 cups semisweet chocolate chips Alternatives include milk chocolate or dark chocolate.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Toast the pecans for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- In a bowl, mix the flour, confectioners’ sugar, and cocoa powder. Add the cold butter and blend until the mixture is coarse.
- Press this mixture into a greased 9”x13” pan. Bake for 15 minutes.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the baked crust and allow it to cool for 30 minutes.
Making the Filling and Baking
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Then add the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, coconut, and pecans, mixing well.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
- Bake the mixture for 28-34 minutes, until set.
- Let it cool completely, then refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Once chilled, use the foil overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares and enjoy.