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German Chocolate Cake Roll
There’s something incredibly magical about rolling up a dessert. I remember the first time I tried to make a German Chocolate Cake Roll. I was in my grandmother’s kitchen, surrounded by the warm smell of chocolate and coconut. She smiled as she guided me, helping me beat the eggs until they were fluffy and full of air. That simple task felt like a little victory. We both giggled as we shared stories and filled our hearts with sugar and love.
Every time I make this cake roll now, I feel the warmth of those memories. It reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the room, and there was always a need for dessert. The creamy coconut and pecan filling contrast beautifully with the rich chocolate cake. This recipe not only gives you a delightful treat but also offers a chance to create lasting memories, just as my grandmother did for me.
So, let’s get started on this delicious adventure and create our very own German Chocolate Cake Roll!
Why Make This Recipe
Imagine serving a dessert that not only looks striking but tastes like a slice of heaven. People will marvel at your culinary skills, but the secret? It’s easier than it seems! The German Chocolate Cake Roll will impress your friends and family. With a rich chocolate sponge cake filled with a creamy coconut and pecan filling, each bite bursts with flavor.
Moreover, think about the versatility of this cake. You can serve it at birthdays, holidays, or simply for an afternoon treat. The roll presentation makes it visually appealing, and it’s great for slicing and sharing. You can also personalize it with different toppings or fillings, so it adapts to your preferences. This recipe not only fills your belly but also fills your heart with joy.
When you roll up a German Chocolate Cake Roll, you roll up good memories, fun experiences, and a taste of love right in the center. Plus, this cake is a crowd-pleaser. People of all ages adore the combination of chocolate and coconut. It brings smiles, laughter, and happy moments. So, don’t hesitate! Let’s dive into making our very own sweet masterpiece.
How to Make German Chocolate Cake Roll
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup sweetened coconut
- 1 cup pecans
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup water
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking sheet. This step makes sure that our cake does not stick.
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In a bowl, beat the eggs until fluffy. The fluffiness will add air to the cake, making it light and soft.
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In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix dry ingredients well. This way, they blend evenly.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the beaten eggs, mixing well. Make sure there are no lumps for a smooth batter.
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Stir in granulated sugar, vanilla, vegetable oil, and water. This adds sweetness and flavor to our cake.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly. It should cover the entire sheet.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Watch carefully to avoid overbaking.
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While the cake cools, mix sweetened coconut, pecans, condensed milk, and powdered sugar in a bowl. This mixture creates the delicious filling.
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Once the cake is cool, spread the coconut and pecan mixture over it. Spread evenly to cover all parts.
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Roll the cake tightly, starting from one end, and chill in the refrigerator. This sets the shape.
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For frosting, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Whip it well so it holds up when spread.
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Frost the outside of the rolled cake with whipped cream. Make it nice and smooth to give it a beautiful finish.
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Slice and serve. Enjoy the delight of your German Chocolate Cake Roll!
How to Serve German Chocolate Cake Roll
Serving is a significant part of the experience. To elevate your dessert presentation, consider the following ideas:
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Temperature Matters: Serve the German Chocolate Cake Roll chilled. This enhances the creaminess of the whipped cream and the filling. Cold desserts often feel more refreshing.
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Plate It: Place a slice on a beautiful dessert plate. Add a dollop of whipped cream on the side for extra creaminess. You can sprinkle a bit of cocoa powder or shredded coconut on top for presentation.
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Pair With Fresh Fruits: Berries or sliced strawberries pair wonderfully with the chocolate. They provide a sweet-tart contrast that lightens the rich flavors.
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Festive Touches: For special occasions, dress it up with chocolate shavings or colorful sprinkles. This extra touch makes the cake feel more festive and fun.
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Enjoy with Coffee: Serve slices with a warm cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of milk. The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of the cake, creating a perfect balance.
How to Store German Chocolate Cake Roll
To keep your German Chocolate Cake Roll fresh and delightful, follow these simple steps:
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Refrigerate: Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last for about 3-4 days. Make sure you seal it well to prevent drying out.
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Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the whole rolled cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
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Thawing: When you want to enjoy it again, take it out of the freezer and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. This keeps the texture intact.
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Avoid Ice Crystals: Make sure the cake cools completely before freezing. This prevents ice crystals, which can soak into your cake and alter the texture.
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Serving After Storage: After refrigerating or freezing, you may need to freshen up the whipped cream on the outside. Whip a bit more cream and re-frost as needed.
Tips to Make German Chocolate Cake Roll
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Use Room Temperature Eggs: Eggs at room temperature whip up fluffier. Take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you bake.
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Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and cocoa powder helps eliminate lumps. It also aerates the ingredients, making for a lighter cake.
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Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
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Check for Doneness: Oven temperatures can vary. Start checking your cake after 15 minutes by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out clean, it’s ready.
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Cooling on a Rack: If possible, cool the cake on a wire rack. This prevents steam from making it soggy on the bottom.
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Customize Filling: You can experiment with fillings. Try adding chocolate chips or different nuts to change up the flavor profile.
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Be Gentle While Rolling: When rolling the cake, do it slowly and carefully to prevent cracking. If it cracks a little, it’s okay! You can always cover it with frosting.
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Work with Chill Ingredients: If you grow tired of whipping cream, chill your mixing bowl and beaters. Cold tools help cream whip up faster and fluffier.
Variation of German Chocolate Cake Roll
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Chocolate Mint Version: Add a few drops of mint extract to the whipped cream. This freshens up the flavor and gives a delightful twist to the cake.
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Fruity Delight: Mix in some diced strawberries or raspberries into the coconut-pecan filling. This adds a sweet and tart flavor profile that complements the chocolate.
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Nutty Surprise: Swap out the pecans for walnuts or hazelnuts. Each nut offers a unique flavor and texture, providing a different spin on the classic filling.
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Creamy Peanut Butter: Spread a thin layer of peanut butter on the cake before adding the coconut-pecan mixture. This adds richness and a creamy texture to every bite.
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Low-Sugar Adaptation: Use a sugar substitute in place of granulated sugar if you prefer a low-sugar version. Just ensure that the substitute is suitable for baking.
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Bundt Cake Variation: Consider baking the batter in a bundt pan instead. You can still add the same coconut-pecan filling and drizzle additional ganache over the top for added flair.
FAQs Of German Chocolate Cake Roll
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Can I freeze a German Chocolate Cake Roll?
- Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It lasts up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s completely cool before wrapping to avoid ice crystals.
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How do I prevent the cake from cracking while rolling?
- Roll the cake while it is still warm but not hot. If you feel it might crack, you can gently patch it up with frosting after rolling.
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What can I substitute for coconut in the filling?
- If you’re not a fan of coconut, consider using crushed graham crackers or finely chopped dried fruits like apricots or figs instead!
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How long will the German Chocolate Cake Roll last?
- In the fridge, it lasts for about 3-4 days. For better longevity, freeze it. Just remember to seal it well to keep it fresh.
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Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?
- Absolutely! You can try walnuts, almonds, or even pecan alternatives. Each nut will yield a different but delightful taste and texture.
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What if my filling turns out too runny?
- If your filling seems runny, try adding a little more powdered sugar or coconut. This will help thicken it and provide the right consistency for spreading.
German Chocolate Cake Roll
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful German Chocolate Cake Roll filled with creamy coconut and pecan filling, wrapped in rich chocolate sponge cake.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup sweetened coconut
- 1 cup pecans
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking sheet.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs until fluffy.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the beaten eggs, mixing until smooth.
- Stir in granulated sugar, vanilla, vegetable oil, and water.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- While the cake cools, mix sweetened coconut, pecans, condensed milk, and powdered sugar in a bowl.
- Once the cake is cool, spread the filling evenly over it.
- Roll the cake tightly and chill in the refrigerator.
- Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form and frost the outside of the cake.
- Slice and serve.
Notes
Serve chilled for enhanced creaminess. Consider adding fresh berries or chocolate shavings for decoration.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: German chocolate roll, dessert recipes, cake roll
