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Here’s a classic German Chocolate Pie—rich, chocolatey, and topped with a coconut-pecan layer reminiscent of the famous cake:
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Coconut-Pecan Topping:
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
For the Crust:
- 1 9-inch pie shell, pre-baked
Method:
- Make the chocolate filling:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa, cornstarch, and salt.
- Gradually stir in milk until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
- Temper egg yolks by adding a small amount of hot mixture to them, then return all to the saucepan. Cook 1–2 minutes more.
- Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla. Pour into pre-baked pie shell.
- Prepare the topping:
- In a medium saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves.
- Whisk a small amount into egg yolks to temper, then return to pan. Cook until slightly thickened, 3–5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans.
- Assemble and bake:
- Spread coconut-pecan topping evenly over chocolate filling.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, until topping is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Cool and serve:
- Cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Tips:
- Use sweetened coconut for that traditional flavor.
- For extra richness, you can brush the crust with a little chocolate before adding the filling.
- This pie tastes even better the next day, once the flavors have melded.
If you like, I can give a shortcut “no-bake” version that still has the authentic coconut-pecan topping but is quicker for busy days.
Do you want me to share that version?