German Chocolate Whoopie Pies are the perfect handheld treat for anyone who loves the classic cake but wants something easier to share. I still remember first tasting German Chocolate Cake at my aunt’s birthday, it was the rich chocolate with the dreamy coconut-pecan filling that stole my heart. These whoopie pies capture all those flavors in soft, chocolatey cookies sandwiched around that luscious filling.

Whether you’re packing them for lunchboxes, serving at parties, or just craving a sweet pick-me-up, these pies check all the boxes. They’re fun, flavorful, and simple to make for any occasion. One bite and you’ll see why they’re quickly becoming a favorite in my household. Treat yourself or someone special to a little slice of chocolate-coconut heaven!
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Why You’ll Love These German Chocolate Whoopie Pies
Let me tell you why these German Chocolate Whoopie Pies are about to become your new obsession:
- So easy! We’re using a cake mix base, my secret weapon when I want delicious without the drama
- That filling though – it’s got that classic German chocolate magic with toasted coconut and crunchy pecans
- Perfect for sharing (or not!), no plates needed, just grab and go
- Soft, fudgy cookies that stay moist for days, if they last that long!
- Total crowd-pleaser at bake sales, parties, or when you need a sweet pick-me-up
Seriously, they’re like getting all the best parts of German chocolate cake without any of the work. You’re welcome!
Ingredients for German Chocolate Whoopie Pies
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these German Chocolate Whoopie Pies. I’ll let you in on a little secret: using quality ingredients makes all the difference in getting that perfect German chocolate flavor. No fancy supermarket trips required though, just basic pantry staples with a couple of special players!
For the chocolate cookies:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix – I prefer devil’s food but any chocolate will work
- ½ cup vegetable oil – this keeps the cookies super moist
- 2 large eggs – room temperature blends better
For the dreamy coconut-pecan filling:
- 1 cup evaporated milk – not sweetened condensed milk! This is crucial
- 1 cup granulated sugar – just regular white sugar works great
- 3 large egg yolks – save the whites for meringues!
- ½ cup unsalted butter – cut into pieces so it melts evenly
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – pure vanilla makes all the difference
- 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut – toast it first for extra flavor if you’re fancy
- 1 cup chopped pecans – measure after chopping, and don’t skip the toasting!
Pro tip from my kitchen disasters: measure everything before you start! The filling comes together fast once it gets going, and you don’t want to be scrambling for ingredients mid-stir. Trust me on this one.

How to Make German Chocolate Whoopie Pies
Ready to whip up these little bites of heaven? It’s easier than you think, and I’ll walk you through every step. Just follow along, and you’ll have a batch of whoopie pies that’ll make you the hero of any gathering (or, you know, your Tuesday night).
Making the Chocolate Cookies
First things first: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Trust me, this makes cleanup a breeze and keeps your cookies from sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, vegetable oil, and eggs. Stir until you’ve got a thick, glossy dough. If it feels a little sticky, that’s perfect, it’ll bake up soft and fudgy.
Now, grab a tablespoon or cookie scoop and drop even-sized dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets. Space them about 2 inches apart, they’ll spread a bit as they bake. No need to flatten them; they’ll do that on their own.
Bake for 8-10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are set but the centers still look soft. Don’t overbake them, or you’ll lose that dreamy, cake-like texture. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Coconut-Pecan Filling
While the cookies are cooling, let’s make that luscious filling. In a medium saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, granulated sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Cook this over medium heat, stirring constantly. I mean it, don’t stop stirring, or you risk burning the mixture. Nobody wants that!
After about 8-10 minutes, the filling will thicken and turn a beautiful golden brown. To test if it’s ready, dip a spoon into the mixture and run your finger through it. If the line holds, you’re good to go. Remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Let it cool to room temperature. If it’s too runny to spread, pop it in the fridge for 15 minutes, and it’ll firm up nicely.
Assembling the Whoopie Pies
Time to put it all together! Take one cooled chocolate cookie and spread a generous amount of the coconut-pecan filling on the flat side. Don’t be shy, this is where the magic happens. Place another cookie on top, gently pressing to create a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining cookies and filling.
And there you have it, German Chocolate Whoopie Pies that are as fun to make as they are to eat. Serve them immediately, or store them in an airtight container to let the flavors meld. Either way, you’re in for a treat!

Tips for Perfect German Chocolate Whoopie Pies
After making way too many batches of these German Chocolate Whoopie Pies (all in the name of research, I swear!), I’ve picked up some tricks that’ll take yours from good to “oh-my-goodness-I-need-another-one” amazing:
Cookie scoop is your best friend
Investing in a small cookie scoop changed my whoopie pie game forever. It ensures all your cookies are the same size so they sandwich together perfectly. No more mismatched pairs! If you don’t have one, use two tablespoons to measure out the dough – just eyeball it to keep them roughly equal.
The filling thickness sweet spot
That coconut-pecan filling should be thick enough to hold its shape but still spreadable. If it’s too runny after cooling, 15 minutes in the fridge works wonders. Too thick? A teaspoon of warm evaporated milk will loosen it right up without making it watery.
Toast your nuts and coconut
Want next-level flavor? Spread the pecans and coconut on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F for 5-8 minutes until golden and fragrant. Watch them like a hawk though – they go from perfectly toasted to burnt faster than you’d think!
The patience payoff
I know it’s tempting to assemble these while the cookies are still slightly warm, but resist! Letting everything cool completely prevents the filling from melting and sliding out. Your future self will thank you when you bite into those perfect layers.
One last tip? Make a double batch. These disappear faster than you’d believe, especially if you’ve got cookie monsters (aka kids or partners) lurking in your kitchen!
Variations for German Chocolate Whoopie Pies
Want to mix things up? Here are my favorite easy twists on this classic:
- Dark chocolate lovers: Swap the regular cake mix for dark chocolate – it balances the sweet filling perfectly
- Nut alternatives: Try toasted walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different crunch
- Extra coconut: Add ½ teaspoon coconut extract to the filling for an even more tropical vibe
- Mini version: Use a teaspoon to make bite-sized whoopies – perfect for parties!
The best part? You really can’t mess these up. Have fun experimenting!
How to Store and Reheat German Chocolate Whoopie Pies
Okay, confession time, these rarely last long enough in my house to need storing! But when they do (or if you’re smart enough to hide some away), here’s how to keep them tasting fresh:
The best way to store your whoopie pies
Pop them in an airtight container with parchment between layers so they don’t stick together. At room temperature, they’ll stay perfect for about 3 days – if you can resist them that long! The filling helps keep the cookies moist, so no worries about them drying out.
When to use the fridge
If your kitchen runs warm or you’re storing them longer than a couple days, the fridge is your friend. They’ll keep beautifully for up to a week chilled. Just let them come to room temp before eating – that filling tastes best when it’s not ice cold!
Freezing for later
Yes, you can freeze these beauties! Wrap each whoopie pie individually in plastic wrap, then tuck them all in a freezer bag. They’ll keep their magic for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready.
The perfect quick reheat
Want that fresh-baked feel? A quick 10-second zap in the microwave works wonders – just enough to take the chill off without making them soggy. For fridge-stored pies, I sometimes let mine sit on the counter while my coffee brews – perfection!
Pro tip from experience: label your container if you’re freezing them. Nothing worse than mystery desserts lurking in your freezer!

Nutritional Information for German Chocolate Whoopie Pies
Now, let’s be real, we’re not eating whoopie pies for their health benefits! But I know some of you like to keep track, so here’s the scoop on what’s in these delicious treats. Remember, these are estimates based on standard ingredients – your exact numbers might vary slightly depending on brands and measurements.
Per whoopie pie (1 serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal (perfect for sharing… or not!)
- Sugar: 25g (that’s the sweet spot between chocolate and coconut)
- Fat: 18g (7g saturated – thank the butter and pecans for that richness)
- Carbohydrates: 45g (worth every bite!)
- Protein: 4g (hey, eggs count as protein, right?)
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fiber: 2g (coconut and pecans bringing some goodness)
- Cholesterol: 60mg (mostly from those egg yolks in the filling)
A little disclaimer from my kitchen to yours: these numbers are calculated using standard nutrition databases, but your exact ingredients and portion sizes might change things slightly. If you’re watching specific dietary needs, you might want to plug your exact brands into a nutrition calculator.
My philosophy? Everything in moderation, including moderation! These whoopie pies are meant to be enjoyed as an occasional treat. Pair one with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee, savor every bite, and don’t stress the numbers too much. Life’s too short not to enjoy a good dessert!
German Chocolate Whoopie Pies FAQs
Can I use homemade cake batter instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! If you’ve got a favorite chocolate cake recipe, go for it. Just make sure it’s a thicker batter that will hold its shape when scooped. You’ll need about 3 cups of batter to match the box mix.
How long do these whoopie pies stay fresh?
They’ll keep at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If you need them to last longer, store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just let them come to room temp before eating, trust me, it makes a difference!
Can I freeze them?
You sure can! Wrap each whoopie pie individually in plastic wrap, then pop them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy.
What if my filling is too runny?
No worries! Let it cool completely, then pop it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. It’ll thicken up nicely. If it’s still too thin, you can add a bit more toasted coconut or chopped pecans to help soak up the extra moisture.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Definitely! Just use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and double-check that all your other ingredients are gluten-free. The filling is naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go there.
More Decadent Chocolate Treats to Delight Your Senses
If German Chocolate Whoopie Pies are on your baking list, explore these rich and indulgent chocolate desserts that bring joy in every bite.
- Dive into the fudgy goodness of Cheesecake Brownies for a perfect chocolatey treat.
- Try the luscious layers of Chocolate Lasagna for a dessert that’s sure to impress everyone.
- Savor the classic charm of Mint Chocolate Bars for a refreshing twist on chocolate.
- Enjoy the rich, creamy sweetness of Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake for a luxurious dessert experience.
Give these recipes a try and add a variety of indulgent chocolate desserts to your collection, perfect for any occasion!
Time to try! German Chocolate Whoopie Pies
Well, there you have it, my not-so-secret secret to the most delicious German Chocolate Whoopie Pies you’ll ever taste! These little handheld treats are everything I love about baking: simple enough for weeknight cravings, special enough for celebrations, and packed with all that nostalgic German chocolate flavor we adore.
I can’t wait for you to try them and see how quickly they become a favorite in your home too. There’s just something magical about that first bite where the soft chocolate cookie meets the rich coconut-pecan filling, it’s pure happiness in dessert form!
When you make them (because I know you will!), I’d love to hear how they turn out. Did you add any fun twists? Did your family go crazy for them like mine does? Snap a photo and tag me @charlotterecipes. Nothing makes me happier than seeing your kitchen creations!
Now go grab that cake mix and get baking. Your future self (and anyone lucky enough to snag one of these whoopie pies) will thank you. Happy baking, friends!
Print
German Chocolate Whoopie Pies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a delightful twist on the classic German Chocolate Cake. These whoopie pies feature soft chocolate cookies sandwiched with a rich coconut-pecan filling. The perfect handheld indulgence!
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cookies:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
For the Coconut-Pecan Filling:
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Make the Chocolate Cookies: In a large mixing bowl, combine chocolate cake mix, vegetable oil, and eggs. Stir until a thick dough forms.
- Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop even-sized dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Let cool 5 minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Coconut-Pecan Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for 8–10 minutes until thickened and golden brown. The mixture should coat the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate 15 minutes for easier spreading.
- Assemble the Whoopie Pies: Spread a generous amount of filling on the flat side of one cookie. Top with another cookie and gently press to form a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining cookies and filling.
- Serve & Store: Enjoy immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days, or refrigerated up to 1 week.
Notes
- For longer storage, freeze the whoopie pies for up to 2 months in a sealed container.
- Let thaw before serving.
- Pair these decadent cookies with a cold glass of milk or coffee for a rich and satisfying treat!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 whoopie pie
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: whoopie pies, german chocolate, chocolate cookies, coconut pecan filling, easy dessert
