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German Chocolate Cake Roll

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The German Chocolate Cake Roll is a rich and luscious dessert that combines a moist, fluffy chocolate sponge cake with a creamy, sweet coconut and pecan filling. This portable roll cake offers a beautiful spiral presentation, making it perfect for special occasions, parties, or indulgent treats. Its easy-to-follow steps and customizable options make it accessible for both beginners and seasoned bakers, delivering a classic yet fresh take on a beloved dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Coconut-Pecan Filling:

  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (or toasted sunflower seeds for nut-free)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Pan and Ingredients: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a jelly roll pan (approximately 10×15 inches) with parchment paper to ensure the cake rolls easily after baking. Measure and have all ingredients ready for smooth assembly.
  2. Whisk the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step prevents lumps and ensures even distribution of leavening agents, which helps create a light cake texture.
  3. Beat the Eggs and Sugar: Using an electric mixer, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes pale, fluffy, and nearly doubles in volume. This process aerates the batter, contributing to a tender, spongy cake that rolls without cracking.
  4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Butter: Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the egg mixture, being careful to retain as much air as possible. Then add the melted butter and vanilla extract, folding just until the batter is smooth and combined.
  5. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared jelly roll pan and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cake springs back lightly when touched. Avoid overbaking to prevent drying out, which makes rolling difficult.
  6. Roll the Cake While Warm: Immediately after removing from the oven, invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel that has been generously sprinkled with granulated sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper, and then, using the towel, roll the cake up gently but tightly from the short end. Let it cool completely in this rolled shape.
  7. Prepare the Traditional Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract. Simmer gently, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and caramelizes slightly. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.
  8. Unroll, Fill, and Re-Roll: Once the cake is fully cooled, carefully unroll it. Spread the coconut-pecan filling evenly across the surface of the cake. Then roll it back up without the towel to create the classic spiral shape.
  9. Chill and Serve: Wrap the filled cake roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the filling to set and make slicing easier. Slice and serve with optional garnishes such as powdered sugar, toasted coconut flakes, or melted chocolate drizzle.

Notes

  • Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality cocoa powder and freshly shredded coconut for the best flavor.
  • Roll Cake Warm: Rolling the cake while it’s still warm prevents cracks and keeps it pliable.
  • Patience on Cooling: Allow the filling to cool properly before spreading to avoid melting the cake’s delicate texture.
  • Use Powdered Sugar Sparingly: Sprinkling sugar on the towel helps prevent sticking without adding a grainy texture.
  • Keep Cake Moist: Store wrapped tightly to maintain moisture, as sponge cakes dry out quickly.

Nutrition

Keywords: German Chocolate Cake Roll, chocolate roll cake, coconut pecan filling, dessert roll, chocolate sponge cake, portable cake, holiday dessert

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/german-chocolate-cake-roll/