German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites combine the richness of traditional pecan pie with the unique flavors of German chocolate cake. These little treats are scrumptious. They’re bite-sized, which makes them perfect for sharing. It’s easy to whip up a batch, and the results are simply delightful. Let’s dive into this dessert and explore its fascinating aspects.
History of German Chocolate Cake and Pecan Pie
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the recipe, let’s take a peek at where this deliciousness comes from. German chocolate cake isn’t from Germany at all! The name originates from an American named Samuel German, who created a dark-baking chocolate in 1852. It quickly became popular for its rich flavor.
On the other hand, pecan pie hails from the southern United States. The classic recipe uses a flaky crust and a sweet, custard-like filling with pecans. Now, mixing these two beloved desserts? That’s a genius move!
Ingredients for German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites
Making these bites only takes a handful of ingredients. Here’s what you need to gather:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 2-3 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup German chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
Topping:
- Additional pecans, as needed
- Sweetened whipped cream (optional)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Before you start, gather a few kitchen tools. These will make your baking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a handy list:
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking tray or mini muffin tin
- Rolling pin
- Whisk
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Spatula
Preparing the Crust German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites
The crust sets the stage for your decadent filling. Start by mixing the flour and sugar in a bowl. Then, add the cold butter and mix until crumbly. It can be easier to use a pastry cutter or fork here. You want pea-sized pieces of butter.
Next, stir in the egg yolk. Gradually add ice water until the dough holds together. Avoid over-mixing! Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This makes handling it later much easier.
Forming the Bites
Once your dough’s rested, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out your dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Cut out circles with a cookie cutter or a glass that’s about three inches in diameter.
Gently press the dough circles into the cups of your mini muffin tin. Try not to stretch the dough while doing this. The goal is to form a little cup. It’s okay if it looks slightly imperfect, as those rustic edges add charm.
Making the Filling
Moving on to the filling. Start by melting the German chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler. Be careful not to overheat!
In another bowl, combine the corn syrup, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Mix well. Then add in the melted chocolate, vanilla, and eggs. Whisk it all until smooth. Finally, stir in the chopped pecans.
Assembling the German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites
Now, comes the most exciting part! Spoon the filling into each dough cup until it’s about three-quarters full. Don’t overfill, as it might spill over while baking.
For a little extra flair, sprinkle a few more pecans on top of each bite. They’ll toast beautifully while baking.
Baking the Bites
Your oven should now be ready. Bake the pie bites for about 18 to 20 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is lightly golden. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time!
Once done, let them cool in the muffin tin for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This is important. If you don’t let them cool, the filling may ooze when you try to remove them.
Serving Suggestions German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites
German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites are fantastic on their own. But, you can elevate the experience with a few simple tweaks:
- Serving with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream pairs wonderfully.
- Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce: A light chocolate drizzle gives it that extra touch.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Sweetened whipped cream looks pretty and tastes delightful.
Storage Tips
These bites are best enjoyed fresh. But you can store any leftovers. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Believe it or not, freezing is an option too! Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months.
Nutritional Information
While the exact nutritional content can vary based on specific brands and measurements, here’s a rough estimate per bite when you make about 24 servings:
| Nutrient | Amount per Bite |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 30mg |
| Sodium | 50mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 17g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 7g |
| Protein | 2g |
Keep in mind, these bites aren’t a health food. They’re meant to be enjoyed in moderation!
Variations of the Recipe
One of the best things about baking is the ability to adjust and tweak recipes. If you want to switch things up a bit, consider these variations:
Dark Chocolate Version
Swap out the German chocolate for dark chocolate. This adds a richer flavor, perfect for chocolate lovers.
Add Coconut
For a tropical twist, incorporate shredded coconut into the filling. It complements the pecans nicely.
Gluten-Free Option
You can use a gluten-free flour blend to make these bites gluten-free. Just make sure all other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.
Other Nuts
If pecans aren’t your thing, try walnuts or hazelnuts. The taste will vary slightly, but they’ll still be delicious.
Conclusion
German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites are a delightful fusion of two classic desserts. Whipping them up can be an enjoyable experience that intertwines history, flavor, and a sprinkle of creativity.
From the flaky crust to the gooey filling, every bite tantalizes the taste buds. Plus, they’re perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe invites you to explore. So why not gather your ingredients and get started? These bites are waiting to be celebrated!
Dive into the world of flavors that German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bites offer. You won’t regret it!
Happy baking!
