Decadent German Chocolate Roll Cake

Name: Decadent German Chocolate Roll Cake
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 3 large eggs; 1 cup sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup milk; 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; 1/2 cup butter; 1 cup brown sugar; 2 egg yolks; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the rich, sweet layers of this Decadent German Chocolate Roll Cake, a delightful twist on the classic dessert. With a luscious chocolate sponge, creamy coconut-pecan frosting, and a hint of vanilla, this elegant dessert is perfect for celebrations or a sweet treat at any time. Roll into flavor and make a statement with this beautiful cake that’s as delicious as it is stunning.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2025-12-01T13:38:31.349Z

Discover the art of rolling cakes with this deliciously decadent recipe.

The Magic of Roll Cakes

Roll cakes are a delightful indulgence that bring both elegance and ease to your dessert table. The process of rolling a cake may seem intimidating, but with the right technique and a little patience, you can create a stunning centerpiece. The light texture of the sponge combined with the rich frosting allows the cake to melt in your mouth, making it a treat for your taste buds. Plus, they are highly adaptable; you can fill them with a variety of flavors, making each roll cake a unique creation.

In this Decadent German Chocolate Roll Cake, you will not only enjoy the rich chocolate flavor of the sponge but also the delightful contrast of the creamy coconut-pecan frosting. This combination is a nod to the classic German chocolate cake, transformed into a fun and beautiful roll. Roll cakes not only taste amazing but also provide a visual feast, making them a standout dessert for any celebration.

Celebrating with Cake

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon at home, this Decadent German Chocolate Roll Cake is a perfect choice. Its beautiful presentation makes it a hit at gatherings, impressing your guests with its elegant appearance. As you slice into the roll, the layers reveal themselves, showcasing both the rich chocolate cake and the sumptuous frosting, setting the stage for a delightful tasting experience.

Pair this roll cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an added layer of indulgence. It also makes for a great dessert during holidays, combining the classic flavors everyone loves into a modern and fun format. The versatility of this cake means you can adapt it for seasonal festivities or a casual get-together, making it a recipe worth mastering.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure the best results with your Decadent German Chocolate Roll Cake, be mindful of your baking process. Start by accurately measuring your ingredients, as precision is key in baking. When combining the dry ingredients, make sure they are well-mixed to avoid clumping, which could affect the texture of your cake. Additionally, when beating the eggs and sugar, look for a light and fluffy consistency—this adds air to your batter and gives the cake that desirable lightness.

Also, don’t rush the cooling process! Allow your cake to cool completely before spreading the frosting and rolling it up. This step is critical as it prevents the frosting from melting and ensures that the cake maintains its shape. Lastly, practice makes perfect; even if the first roll doesn’t look flawless, the flavors will shine through. Enjoy the journey of creating this delicious dessert!

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
3 large eggs
1 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup milk

For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
2 egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract

Gather all ingredients before you start.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Beat Eggs and Sugar

In another bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and milk.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Spread the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes.

Make the Frosting

In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in brown sugar and egg yolks. Cook until thickened then add coconut and pecans.

Assemble the Roll Cake

Once the cake is cooled, spread the frosting over it and gently roll it up.

Serve

Slice the rolled cake and enjoy with your favorite hot beverage!

Enjoy your Decadent German Chocolate Roll Cake!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

After making your Decadent German Chocolate Roll Cake, you might be wondering about storage. To keep it fresh, wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, allowing you to enjoy it over several occasions. If you want to prepare it ahead of time, consider freezing it—just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

When it’s time to serve, let the cake come to room temperature for the best flavor. You can also elevate the presentation by garnishing with additional shredded coconut or pecans on top. A drizzle of chocolate ganache can also add an extra touch of decadence, making it perfect for special occasions. This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for a delightful treat.

Variations to Try

If you want to get creative, there are numerous variations you can try with this roll cake recipe. Swap the chocolate sponge for a vanilla or even a red velvet cake for a different flavor profile. You could also fill the cake with different frostings, such as a rich chocolate ganache or even a fruity berry compote, to create a new and exciting experience every time you bake.

For a more textured cake, consider adding crushed nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for an added crunch or flavor burst. You could also play with the toppings by adding a layer of fresh fruit on top of the frosting before rolling, introducing a refreshing tartness to balance the sweet.”

The History Behind German Chocolate Cake

Despite the name, German chocolate cake does not actually originate from Germany. Instead, it gets its name from an American named Samuel German, who developed a specific dark-baking chocolate in 1852. This chocolate became the star ingredient in a layered cake recipe published in a Texas newspaper, which led to the now-famous dessert that combines rich chocolate cake with coconut and pecan frosting.

Today, the traditional German chocolate cake remains beloved, and this roll cake version pays homage to those rich flavors while offering a modern spin. It’s a celebration of everything we love about dessert—sweetness, richness, and a touch of nostalgia, making it a recipe perfect for any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the cake and frosting a day before serving.

→ Can I substitute the pecans?

Yes, you can use walnuts or omit nuts if desired.