Decadent German Chocolate Roll Cake

Name: Decadent German Chocolate Roll Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8.0
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 4 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup boiling water; 1 cup evaporated milk; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut; 1 cup chopped pecans; 3 large egg yolks; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Satisfy your sweet tooth with this irresistible Decadent German Chocolate Roll Cake recipe. This rich chocolate cake is perfectly rolled and filled with a luscious coconut-pecan frosting that adds a delightful twist to the classic German chocolate flavor. Ideal for special occasions or an extravagant dessert, this cake is sure to impress friends and family with its stunning presentation and mouthwatering taste.

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2025-11-29T11:57:33.983Z

This Decadent German Chocolate Roll Cake brings a new twist to a classic favorite, combining rich chocolate flavors with a coconut-pecan frosting that perfectly balances the sweetness.

The Magic of German Chocolate

German chocolate cake is beloved for its unique combination of rich chocolate and sweet coconut-pecan frosting. This Decadent German Chocolate Roll Cake takes this time-honored tradition and transforms it into a stunning rolled dessert. The flavors meld beautifully, creating an indulgent treat that is perfect for any gathering. The cake itself is fluffy and moist, serving as the perfect canvas for the delightful frosting.

What sets this recipe apart is the ease with which you can achieve an impressive presentation. The rolled shape gives the cake a wonderful aesthetic appeal that is bound to wow your guests. Each slice reveals the beautiful spiral of chocolate cake enveloping the luscious coconut-pecan filling, making it an eye-catching as well as a mouthwatering dessert.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Decadent German Chocolate Roll Cake is not just a feast for the eyes; it's versatile enough for numerous occasions. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, holiday, or just an ordinary day that needs a little sweetness, this cake fits the bill perfectly. The rich flavors make it suitable for both casual and formal settings, ensuring that everyone at the table will be impressed.

Moreover, this cake can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare and roll it up, then frost just before serving. This makes it a fantastic choice for parties, allowing you to spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen. The cake holds up well in the refrigerator and can even be frozen for future enjoyment, giving you flexibility in planning your dessert offerings.

Tips for Success

To ensure a successful cake, remember to appropriately prepare your jelly roll pan with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make it easier to roll your cake after baking. Additionally, allow the cake to cool fully before attempting to roll it up. A warm cake is more likely to crack, ruining its delicate structure and aesthetic.

When making the coconut-pecan frosting, be patient while cooking it on the stove. Stirring constantly helps to achieve the right texture, ensuring that the frosting thickens adequately. Allow the frosting to cool before spreading it on the cake, as this prevents it from melting into the cake and maintains the beautiful layers. Following these tips will result in a beautifully executed and delicious dessert!

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
4 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup boiling water

For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

1 cup evaporated milk
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
1 cup chopped pecans
3 large egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, combine all dry ingredients for the cake. In another bowl, beat the eggs, oil, and vanilla until fluffy, then add to the dry ingredients. Mix until combined, and carefully stir in the boiling water.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Make the Frosting

In a saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, butter, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in coconut, pecans, and vanilla. Let cool.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, gently peel off the parchment paper. Spread half of the frosting onto the cake, then carefully roll it up from one end.

Place the rolled cake seam-side down on a serving platter. Spread the remaining frosting over the top of the cake. Slice and serve!

Storing and Serving

Once you’ve made the Decadent German Chocolate Roll Cake, proper storage is key to ensuring it stays fresh and delightful. If you have leftovers, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. The cake can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days. For even longer storage, consider freezing the unfilled or filled cake tightly wrapped in foil. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving to maintain its moist texture.

When ready to serve, slice the cake with a serrated knife for clean cuts. This will showcase the beautiful swirl of chocolate and frosting, making each piece as appetizing as the last. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the experience further. The combination of flavors will leave guests yearning for more!

Customization Ideas

While traditional coconut and pecans give this cake its signature flavor, feel free to get creative with your fillings! Consider adding different nuts like walnuts or using a variety of flavored extracts in the frosting to change the flavor profile. You could also infuse the cake with espresso powder for a mocha twist, or add a layer of chocolate ganache for extra decadence.

If you prefer a simpler frosting, a classic chocolate ganache or even a cream cheese frosting would pair wonderfully with the chocolate roll. Experimenting with different fillings can create an entirely new dessert experience each time you make it, ensuring you're never bored with this versatile recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, the cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.

→ What can I substitute for pecans?

You can use walnuts or leave them out entirely if you prefer.