
No-bake German chocolate pie is a lifesaver for busy days when you want something decadent but need to keep things lower in sugar. With a nutty chocolate crust and a creamy layered filling, this dessert has all the rich flavors of the classic cake but skips the oven and fits a diabetic-friendly lifestyle. It is perfect for family gatherings or when you are simply craving something sweet but healthy.
My first time making this pie was right before a summer barbecue and it vanished before the burgers were even served. Now my friends ask me to bring it to every cookout.
Ingredients
- Almond flour: Essential for the crust plus it keeps things naturally gluten free and adds a subtle nutty taste Use finely ground blanched almond flour for a smoother crust
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides intense chocolate flavor Choose a high quality Dutch process if you can
- Melted butter or coconut oil: Binds the crust together and adds richness Pick unsalted butter or refined coconut oil if you prefer a milder taste
- Powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener: Gives sweetness without raising blood sugar Make sure your sweetener is super-fine to avoid a gritty crust
- Pinch of salt: Balances the flavors in the crust Sea salt works best for a touch of minerality
- Sugar-free chocolate pudding mix: The base for a thick creamy filling Opt for a brand with minimal additives
- Unsweetened almond milk or skim milk: Keeps things light and creamy Go for unsweetened to control sugar
- Sugar-free whipped topping or plain Greek yogurt: For that silky texture Either option adds structure and a bit of lightness
- Vanilla extract: Totally optional but a drop elevates the chocolate flavor Use pure vanilla for the best aroma
- Unsweetened shredded coconut: Classic German chocolate flavor Make sure it is not sweetened to keep carbs lower
- Chopped pecans: Crunch and authentic flavor Toast lightly for the best nutty taste
- Sugar-free sweetened condensed milk: Binds the topping together and adds creamy sweetness Homemade lets you control the ingredients
- Butter: Optional in the topping for indulgent texture Use real butter for a richer mouthfeel
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Crust:
- Mix the almond flour unsweetened cocoa powder powdered of your choice and salt together in a mixing bowl until evenly blended Use your fingers to break up lumps so everything is smooth
- Pour in the melted butter or coconut oil:
- Mix well until you have moist crumbs that hold when pressed This is key for a crust that slices cleanly
- Press mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a nine inch pie plate:
- Use a measuring cup to compact it tightly so your filling will not leak
- Chill in the fridge for twenty minutes:
- So the fats solidify making the crust set and sturdy
- Make the Chocolate Filling:
- In a medium bowl use a sturdy whisk to combine sugar-free chocolate pudding mix with unsweetened almond milk or skim milk Whisk for about two minutes until the mixture begins to thicken and look glossy
- Fold in your whipped topping or Greek yogurt and add a splash of vanilla if using:
- Stir gently so the filling stays light and fluffy
- Spoon the filling into your chilled crust then use an offset spatula to create a smooth layer from edge to edge:
- Prepare the Coconut Pecan Topping:
- In a small bowl stir together unsweetened shredded coconut chopped pecans and sugar-free sweetened condensed milk Be sure every piece is coated so the topping sticks together
- If you want a little extra creaminess add the tablespoon of melted butter and mix again until glossy:
- Spread the topping evenly over the chocolate filling so every bite gets coconut pecan goodness:
- Chill:
- Refrigerate your pie for at least two hours until fully set Overnight is even better for the cleanest slices

You Must Know
The shredded coconut in this pie brings me back to my childhood when my grandmother would let me help toast the coconut for her cakes The aroma filling the kitchen always meant something sweet and homemade was coming
Storage Tips
Keep your pie well covered in the fridge preferably in a lidded pie dish or tightly with plastic wrap It tastes freshest within three to four days If you want to store leftovers for longer it is best to slice and freeze the pie on a tray then wrap each slice individually This keeps the toppings from getting soggy
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are allergic to nuts replace the almond flour with sunflower seed flour and choose seeds instead of pecans For the filling use any sugar-free pudding mix flavor you love Even coconut or banana brings a fun twist If you prefer dairy free reach for coconut whipped topping and plant based butter
Serving Suggestions
This pie is delicious straight from the fridge but for something extra garnish with extra toasted pecans or a drizzle of sugar free chocolate syrup Serve with fresh berries for a punch of bright color and flavor If you are feeling festive a tiny sprinkle of flaky sea salt brings out the chocolate richness in each slice

Cultural and Historical Context
German chocolate pie takes its inspiration from the legendary German chocolate cake which actually has American origins Sam German developed baking chocolate for Baker's Chocolate and the cake became famous for its coconut pecan frosting This no bake pie version keeps those iconic flavors in a more approachable everyday dessert
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute another nut for the pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans for the topping, though flavor and texture will vary slightly.
- → What kind of sweetener works best for the crust?
Powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener blends well, keeping the crust tender and lightly sweet without added sugar.
- → How do I make homemade sugar-free condensed milk?
Simmer unsweetened almond milk with erythritol until it's reduced by half and thickened, then let it cool before using.
- → Does the pie need to be baked?
No, chilling the assembled pie in the refrigerator is sufficient for it to set up firm and slice cleanly.
- → How long will the pie keep in the fridge?
The pie stays fresh for about 3–4 days when stored covered in the refrigerator.