No-Bake German Chocolate Pie – Decadence Without the Oven
Looking for an indulgent chocolate dessert that’s incredibly easy and doesn’t require baking? This No-Bake German Chocolate Pie is the ultimate solution. With a creamy chocolate base and a luscious coconut-pecan topping, this pie tastes like a bakery-level dessert without breaking a sweat.
Perfect for summer, holidays, or whenever you want something rich and satisfying without turning on the oven.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Pie dish (if not using a store-bought crust)
- Refrigerator space for chilling
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Oven Needed: Keep your kitchen cool—this pie is all stovetop and chill.
- Classic Flavor Combo: That iconic German chocolate pairing of coconut and pecans meets rich, creamy chocolate pudding.
- Quick and Easy: Less than 30 minutes of hands-on time!
- Great for Entertaining: Can be made a day ahead and looks gorgeous on a dessert table.
- Family Favorite: Kid-approved and adult-adored!
Tips & Tricks
- Use high-quality chocolate pudding for a richer flavor base.
- Toast your pecans and coconut before stirring them in for enhanced texture and taste.
- Want extra firmness? Add ¼ cup cream cheese to the pudding layer before chilling.
- Try a chocolate cookie crust for even more cocoa richness.
Variations
- Nut-Free Version: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or omit entirely.
- Extra Chocolate: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or chocolate chips between the layers.
- Low-Sugar Option: Use sugar-free pudding and reduce sugar in the topping to ¼ cup.
- Gluten-Free? Choose a gluten-free graham crust or make your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. In fact, it tastes even better the next day.
Can I use cooked pudding instead of instant?
Absolutely, but be sure it’s fully chilled before topping with the coconut-pecan layer.
Does it freeze well?
Yes, freeze the fully assembled pie for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
This No-Bake German Chocolate Pie brings together the best of two dessert worlds: creamy pudding and gooey, nutty topping. With its rich flavor and minimal prep, it’s the perfect last-minute dessert or holiday showstopper.
One bite and you’ll wonder why you ever turned on the oven. Bookmark this one—it’s a keeper!

No-Bake German Chocolate Pie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Make the Chocolate Layer:
- Whisk pudding mix and cold milk in a medium bowl for about 2 minutes until thickened. Pour into graham crust and smooth the surface. Chill while preparing topping.
- Prepare Coconut-Pecan Topping:
- In a saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla, coconut, and pecans.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Spoon the warm topping over the chilled chocolate pudding layer and spread evenly.
- Chill & Serve:
- Refrigerate at least 2 hours or until firm. Optional: Garnish with toasted coconut or pecans before serving.
Notes