Irresistibly Soft German Chocolate Whoopie Pies Recipe

There’s something magical about baking that transforms a mundane afternoon into a delightful adventure. Picture this: the sun dipping low in the sky, and your kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of rich chocolate and sweet coconut. Today, I'm excited to share with you my take on a truly special treat – German Chocolate Whoopie Pies. These delightful desserts showcase soft and tender chocolate cakes that are lovingly filled with a creamy coconut-pecan filling, making them a standout at any gathering.

Not only are they incredibly simple to make, but they also bring a nostalgic touch to modern dessert tables. Each bite is a warm hug for your taste buds, offering a satisfying blend of textures and flavors. Perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or celebrating a milestone, these whoopie pies are bound to impress your family and friends alike.

Have I piqued your interest? Let’s dive into the fun and delicious process of crafting these scrumptious German Chocolate Whoopie Pies!

Why are German Chocolate Whoopie Pies so special?

Irresistible flavor combination: The rich chocolate paired with the creamy coconut-pecan filling creates a match made in dessert heaven.
Effortless preparation: Even novice bakers can whip these up with ease, making them perfect for any skill level.
Crowd-pleaser delight: These whoopie pies are sure to impress at any gathering, leaving everyone asking for seconds!
Versatile treat: Ideal for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations.
If you love desserts that warm the heart and home, try making these delectable German Chocolate Whoopie Pies for your next event!

German Chocolate Whoopie Pies Ingredients

Get ready to indulge in a delightful baking adventure!

For the Chocolate Cakes
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure for those soft and tender cakes.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds a rich chocolate flavor that shines through.
• Baking soda – Acts as the leavening agent to give the cakes that perfect lift.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor, making every bite delicious.
• Unsalted butter, softened – Contributes to the tenderness and richness of the cakes.
• Granulated sugar – This sweetener helps balance the flavors beautifully.
• Large egg – Binds all the ingredients together for a cohesive batter.
• Vanilla extract – Elevates the taste with a lovely aroma and flavor.
• Buttermilk – Moistens the cake while adding a hint of tangy goodness.
• Evaporated milk – Contributes to the overall moisture and decadent flavor of the cakes.

For the Coconut-Pecan Filling
• Granulated sugar – Sweetness that beautifully complements the filling's texture.
• Large egg yolks – Add richness and create that dreamy creamy texture.
• Unsalted butter, softened – Provides additional richness and creates a smooth filling.
• Sweetened shredded coconut – Offers a delightful coconut flavor and texture.
• Chopped pecans – Adds nutty flavor and delightful crunch to the filling.
• Vanilla extract – A touch of flavor that ties the filling together.

Now that you have all the German Chocolate Whoopie Pies ingredients, it's time to whip up some sweet memories in the kitchen!

Step-by-Step Instructions for German Chocolate Whoopie Pies

Step 1
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients will create the foundation for your soft chocolate cakes. In another bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar, beating them until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. This aeration process helps achieve that tender texture you’re aiming for in your German Chocolate Whoopie Pies.

Step 2
Next, add the large egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until well incorporated. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk and evaporated milk; start and end with the flour mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. This will give you a rich batter. Now, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and use a cookie scoop to drop heaping tablespoons of the batter onto the sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cakes spring back when lightly pressed.

Step 3
While your chocolate cakes cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, let's prepare the coconut-pecan filling. In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, egg yolks, and softened butter over medium heat. Whisk continuously for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble. This will help create that creamy, dreamy filling that complements the chocolate cakes beautifully.

Step 4
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the sweetened shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined, creating a luscious filling. Allow this mixture to cool slightly for about 10 minutes. Once your chocolate cakes have completely cooled on a wire rack, it's time to assemble your German Chocolate Whoopie Pies!

Step 5
To assemble, take one chocolate cake and scoop a generous amount of the coconut-pecan filling onto the flat side. Place another cake on top to create a sandwich, pressing down gently. Repeat this process until all the cakes and filling are used up. Serve your delightful German Chocolate Whoopie Pies immediately, or store them in an airtight container. Enjoy the delightful blend of soft chocolate and creamy coconut-pecan filling!

How to Store and Freeze German Chocolate Whoopie Pies

Room Temperature: Keep your whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for maximum freshness and softness.

Fridge: If you prefer a slightly firmer filling, refrigerate them for up to a week in an airtight container, but note this may slightly alter the texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled whoopie pies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: If you'd like them warm, microwave individual whoopie pies for about 10 seconds or place in a 350°F oven for a few minutes until warmed through.

German Chocolate Whoopie Pies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful treats and make them uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of buttermilk, and dairy-free butter for the filling. Perfect for lactose-intolerant friends!
Nut-Free: Swap pecans with sunflower seeds or omit altogether for a nut-free filling without compromising flavor.
Chocolate Lovers: Increase the cocoa powder by 1 tablespoon for an even richer chocolate flavor that will truly delight any chocoholic.
Tropical Twist: Add a teaspoon of rum extract to the filling for a tropical flavor boost that pairs beautifully with coconut!
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper in the cake batter for those who like a warm twist to sweet treats.
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate diced pineapple into the coconut-pecan filling for a refreshing burst of flavor that brightens the dessert.
Mini Whoopie Pies: Use a smaller scoop for bite-sized versions, perfect for parties or when you want just a little taste!

These variations are sure to inspire your creativity in the kitchen, making each batch of German Chocolate Whoopie Pies a new adventure!

Expert Tips for German Chocolate Whoopie Pies

Perfect Consistency: Use room temperature ingredients for your batter and filling; this ensures a smooth mixture that combines easily, creating soft cakes.

Mixing Method: Be careful not to overmix your cake batter; mix just until combined for the best texture and height in your German Chocolate Whoopie Pies.

Cooling Time: Let your cakes cool completely before adding the filling, or it may melt and ooze out, compromising the delightful appearance of your dessert.

Storage Secrets: Keep your whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring they remain soft and delicious.

Flavor Boost: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the cake batter for a subtle warmth that enhances the rich chocolate flavor without overpowering it.

Make Ahead Options

These German Chocolate Whoopie Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their dessert preparations! You can make the chocolate cake portion up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake and let the cakes cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. The coconut-pecan filling, however, can be prepared up to 3 days ahead of time. Refrigerate the filling in a sealed container to keep it fresh. When you're ready to serve, simply assemble the whoopie pies by spreading the filling between the cakes, and you'll enjoy that same deliciousness as if they were freshly made! This approach saves time without compromising on flavor, making dessert planning a breeze.

What to Serve with German Chocolate Whoopie Pies?

Delight your taste buds alongside these delectable desserts with some perfectly paired treats and beverages.

Rich Coffee: The deep flavors of a fresh cup of coffee amplify the sweetness of the whoopie pies, creating a delightful contrast.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a cool contrast and balances the rich chocolate and coconut flavors.
Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge even further with a thick chocolate milkshake, ensuring every bite of the whoopie pie is creamy and velvety.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness, creating a well-rounded dessert experience.
Nutty Cookies: Pairing with nutty cookies, like pecan sandies, complements the pecans in the filling, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Sparkling Water: For a lighter option, a glass of sparkling water provides a refreshing palate cleanser without overpowering the dessert.
Chilled Lemonade: The tangy sweetness of lemonade contrasts beautifully with the whoopie pies, bringing a bright and refreshing touch to your meal.
Decadent Brownies: If you're in the mood for more chocolate, serving these alongside some fudgy brownies is a dream come true for chocolate lovers.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a bit of warm caramel sauce over your whoopie pies adds a luxurious touch, enhancing the coconut flavor in the filling.

German Chocolate Whoopie Pies Recipe FAQs

What type of cocoa powder should I use for the cake?
I recommend using unsweetened cocoa powder, as it provides the rich chocolate flavor that is essential for these German Chocolate Whoopie Pies. Look for a high-quality brand for the best results!

How should I store leftover whoopie pies?
To keep your whoopie pies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, although this may alter the texture slightly.

Can I freeze German Chocolate Whoopie Pies?
Absolutely! Freeze assembled whoopie pies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.

What if my cake dough is too thick?
If your cake batter feels too thick and isn't dropping easily from the scoop, you might want to add a bit more buttermilk or evaporated milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a pourable consistency that's still rich and thick.

Are these whoopie pies safe for people with nut allergies?
Be cautious! The original recipe contains pecans in the filling. If you're serving someone with nut allergies, consider leaving out the pecans altogether or using a nut-free alternative like sunflower seeds for that delightful crunch.

How can I ensure my cake layers bake evenly?
For even baking, make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing your whoopie pies in. Keep the baking sheet in the center of the oven and rotate it halfway through baking for a uniform cook. This little trick helps achieve that perfect rise!

Aria West