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Delicious German chocolate cake roll filled with coconut-pecan frosting and chocolate ganache.

German Chocolate Roll Cake

A delightful roll cake filled with creamy coconut pecan frosting, offering a cozy chocolate flavor in a unique spiral shape, perfect for parties and gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American, German
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs room temperature
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder unsweetened
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup water warm
For the Coconut Pecan Frosting
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans lightly toasted
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter cubed
  • 1 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 large egg yolks

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. In another bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, then gradually add this to the egg mixture.
  4. Stir in the oil, vanilla, and warm water until smooth.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.
Rolling the Cake
  1. While the cake is baking, dust a clean kitchen towel with cocoa powder or powdered sugar.
  2. Remove the cake from the oven and immediately turn it onto the prepared towel, peeling off the parchment paper.
  3. Roll the the warm cake gently with the towel and let it cool completely in that shape.
Making the Frosting
  1. In a saucepan, combine evaporated milk, brown sugar, egg yolks, cubed butter, and stir over medium-low heat until thickened.
  2. Remove from heat, stir in coconut and pecans, then let it cool before using.
Assembly
  1. Once the cake is cool, unroll it and spread the coconut pecan frosting evenly over the surface.
  2. Re-roll the cake without the towel and place seam-side down on a serving platter.
  3. Chill for at least 2 to 4 hours before slicing for clean edges.

Notes

For best results, ensure the cake is rolled while warm and the frosting is cooled properly before spreading. Store in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.