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No-Bake German Chocolate Delight

Highlight: Indulgent Desserts for Sweet Endings

This no-bake German chocolate pie combines a smooth chocolate pudding filling with a crunchy graham cracker crust. The pie is crowned with a luscious coconut and pecan topping, adding texture and richness. The process is simple: whisk pudding mix with cold milk, fold in whipped topping, then set in the crust. A mixture of shredded coconut, pecans, condensed milk, butter, and vanilla is spread on top before chilling for several hours. For best results, chill well to set and garnish optionally with shaved white chocolate or extra pecans. This dessert offers a balanced blend of creamy and nutty flavors, perfect for a stress-free, indulgent treat.

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Crafted By Sophie
Updated on Tue, 18 Nov 2025 10:59:15 GMT
A slice of a no-bake German chocolate pie. Save
A slice of a no-bake German chocolate pie. | myhomemademeal.com

This no-bake German chocolate pie offers a rich and creamy chocolate pudding filling paired with a luscious coconut-pecan topping all nestled in a crisp graham cracker crust. It is an ideal dessert when you want something indulgent but fuss-free that you can prepare ahead of time and just let chill until ready to serve.

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crust: provides a buttery, crunchy base so opt for a fresh one without cracks
  • Instant chocolate pudding mix: creates the smooth chocolate filling quickly and effortlessly
  • Cold milk: essential for properly setting the pudding mix to a creamy consistency
  • Whipped topping: lightens the chocolate filling adding creaminess and volume
  • Sweetened shredded coconut: gives the topping its tropical sweetness and chewy texture
  • Chopped pecans: add a toasty crunch which balances the sweetness
  • Sweetened condensed milk: binds the topping ingredients with rich sweetness
  • Melted butter: helps hold the topping together and adds depth of flavor
  • Vanilla extract: enhances all the sweet, nutty flavors
  • Pinch of salt: balances the sweetness and brightens the overall taste
  • Optional shaved white chocolate or extra pecans: for an elegant garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Spoon the pudding:
Whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with cold milk vigorously for 2 minutes until it thickens nicely and smooth. This ensures no lumps and a rich texture.
Fold in whipped topping:
Gently incorporate the cup of whipped topping into the pudding mixture until fully combined and smooth. This yields a lighter, creamier filling.
Fill the crust:
Pour the chocolate pudding mixture into the graham cracker crust and smooth the surface using a spatula so it sets evenly.
Prepare the topping:
In a bowl combine shredded coconut, chopped pecans, sweetened condensed milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is fully coated and sticky.
Top the pie:
Spread the coconut-pecan mixture evenly over the chocolate filling creating a thick layer. This topping adds delightful texture and flavor contrast.
Chill to set:
Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight so the filling firms up well and flavors meld beautifully.
Garnish and serve:
Optionally decorate with shaved white chocolate or extra pecans before slicing. Serve chilled for the best creaminess and texture.
A slice of German chocolate pie with chocolate drizzle. Save
A slice of German chocolate pie with chocolate drizzle. | myhomemademeal.com

Storage Tips

Store the pie covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to three days. The texture stays creamy and the crust holds up well. If made in advance, keep the topping on to maintain freshness but add any garnish just before serving. Avoid freezing as it may alter the texture of the pudding and crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute the pecans with toasted sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. Use coconut cream instead of whipped topping for a dairy-free option. For the crust, crushed digestive biscuits or chocolate wafer cookies can replace graham crackers if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This pie pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. Fresh berries provide a nice tart contrast to the sweet richness. Serve with coffee or a semi-sweet dessert wine to round out the experience.

Pro Tips

  • Toast the coconut and pecans lightly in a dry skillet before mixing to amplify the flavor and add a slight crunch
  • Do not rush the chilling process as the pie needs at least four hours for the filling to set nicely
  • Use a spatula to smooth the pudding layer carefully so the topping settles evenly and the pie looks neat

Recipe FAQs

→ How long should the pie chill before serving?

Chilling for at least 4 hours ensures the filling fully sets and the flavors meld beautifully.

→ Can the coconut and pecans be toasted before mixing?

Lightly toasting the coconut and pecans brings out a deeper flavor and adds extra crunch.

→ Is there a substitute for the graham cracker crust?

Yes, a chocolate cookie crust can be used for a richer base that complements the filling.

→ What is the role of sweetened condensed milk in the topping?

It binds the coconut and pecans together and adds a creamy sweetness to the topping.

→ Can this pie be made ahead of time?

Absolutely, preparing it a day ahead enhances the flavors and texture after chilling overnight.

No-Bake German Chocolate Pie

Creamy chocolate pudding filling topped with coconut and pecans, chilled in a graham cracker crust.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Duration
~
Overall Time
15 minutes
Crafted By: Sophie

Recipe Type: Desserts

Preparation Complexity: Beginner-Friendly

Regional Cuisine: American

Servings Output: 8 Serving Size (1 9-inch pie)

Dietary Choices: Suitable for Vegetarians

Everything You’ll Need

→ Crust

01 1 9-inch graham cracker crust

→ Chocolate Filling

02 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
03 1 3/4 cups cold milk
04 1 cup whipped topping

→ Coconut-Pecan Topping

05 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
06 1/2 cup chopped pecans
07 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
08 2 tablespoons melted butter
09 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
10 Pinch of salt

→ Optional Garnish

11 Shaved white chocolate or additional pecans

Steps to Cook

Step 01

Whisk instant chocolate pudding mix with cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened. Gently fold in whipped topping until smooth and creamy.

Step 02

Pour the chocolate mixture into the graham cracker crust. Smooth the surface with a spatula and chill while preparing the topping.

Step 03

Combine shredded coconut, chopped pecans, sweetened condensed milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until evenly incorporated.

Step 04

Spread the coconut-pecan topping evenly over the chocolate layer. Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, allowing it to set completely.

Step 05

Optional: Decorate the chilled pie with shaved white chocolate or additional pecans. Slice and serve immediately.

Extra Suggestions

  1. Chill thoroughly to ensure proper setting. For enhanced texture and flavor, lightly toast the coconut and pecans before mixing. Garnish enhances presentation.

Must-Have Equipment

  • 9-inch pie pan (graham cracker crust pre-made)
  • Whisk
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula
  • Refrigerator

Allergy Information

Always check ingredient details for potential allergens. Consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains dairy, nuts (pecans), and gluten (graham cracker crust)

Nutritional Highlights (per portion)

Nutritional information is shared for guidance and isn't meant to replace expert medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 350
  • Fat Breakdown: 20 grams
  • Carbohydrate Breakdown: 40 grams
  • Protein Count: 4 grams