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### Instructions for Making German Chocolate Whoopie Pies
#### Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cakes from sticking.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Once combined, add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until smooth.
In a small bowl, combine the milk and vinegar. The vinegar will react with the milk, creating a buttermilk-like mixture, which helps to create a moist cake. Slowly add the milk mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the dry ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Beat until just combined.
Finally, stir in the water, which will thin out the batter and make it more pourable.
#### Step 2: Bake the Whoopie Pie Cakes
Spoon the batter onto the prepared baking sheets, forming round mounds about 2 tablespoons in size, making sure they are spaced about 2 inches apart. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to gently spread them into flat discs.
Bake the cakes for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye on them, as overbaking can make the cakes dry. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheets.
#### Step 3: Prepare the Coconut-Pecan Filling
While the cakes are cooling, it’s time to prepare the rich coconut-pecan filling. In a medium saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, sugar, butter, and egg yolks. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens (about 8-10 minutes). Make sure not to leave the mixture unattended, as it can burn easily.
Once the mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and a pinch of salt. Allow the filling to cool to room temperature before using it to assemble the whoopie pies.
#### Step 4: Assemble the Whoopie Pies
Once the cakes and filling have cooled, it’s time to assemble the whoopie pies. Take one of the chocolate cake discs and spread a generous amount of the coconut-pecan filling on the flat side of the cake. Top it with another chocolate cake disc, flat side down, to form a sandwich. Gently press the two pieces together to secure the filling inside.
Repeat this process for the remaining whoopie pies, and you’re done!
#### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Your German Chocolate Whoopie Pies are now ready to serve! These delicious treats are best enjoyed fresh, though they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days. The coconut-pecan filling will remain gooey and delicious, while the chocolate cakes will stay soft and moist.
### Tips for Perfect German Chocolate Whoopie Pies
1. **Use Room Temperature Ingredients**: Make sure the butter, egg, and milk are at room temperature before you start baking. This ensures that the ingredients will mix evenly and create a smooth, lump-free batter.
2. **Don’t Overbake the Cakes**: Whoopie pies are meant to be soft and moist, so it’s important not to overbake the cakes. Check them regularly towards the end of the baking time to make sure they don’t dry out.
3. **Chill the Filling**: Let the coconut-pecan filling cool to room temperature before using it. If it’s too warm when you spread it on the cakes, it could melt and ooze out too much.
4. **Customize the Filling**: While the classic coconut-pecan filling is delicious, you can experiment with different fillings. You could add a bit of chocolate chips, cream cheese, or even a swirl of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
5. **Make Mini Whoopie Pies**: If you want to serve these at a party or gathering, consider making mini versions of these whoopie pies. Just use a teaspoon to drop smaller amounts of batter, and adjust the baking time accordingly (about 6-8 minutes).
### Conclusion: A Must-Have for Chocolate Lovers
**German Chocolate Whoopie Pies** are the perfect dessert for anyone who loves chocolate, coconut, and pecans. They combine the best aspects of German chocolate cake and whoopie pies, creating a truly decadent treat. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these whoopie pies will leave everyone asking for more.
With the rich, moist chocolate cake and the gooey coconut-pecan filling, it’s easy to see why these whoopie pies are a hit with chocolate lovers of all ages. Whether you make them for yourself or share them with friends and family, these pies are guaranteed to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Happy baking!
