Decadent German Chocolate Coconut Pecan Roll Cake

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This German Chocolate Coconut Pecan Roll Cake is not just a dessert, it’s an experience. Each bite bursts with rich layers of moist chocolate sponge rolled with a luscious coconut pecan filling, then smothered in silky chocolate ganache. It’s indulgent, visually stunning, and perfect for celebrations or when you simply want to impress.

The roll cake format offers that beautiful swirl of contrasting flavors and textures—chocolatey, nutty, and creamy with just the right amount of crunch from the pecans and sweetness from shredded coconut. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday table or a casual gathering, this cake always steals the spotlight.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Making a successful roll cake starts with preparation and the right tools:

• Jelly Roll Pan (10×15 inch): This is key for creating the perfect thin sponge that can roll without cracking.
• Parchment Paper: Helps with an easy, crack-free release from the pan.
• Stand Mixer or Electric Hand Mixer: Ensures fluffy, well-aerated cake batter and a smooth filling.
• Offset Spatula: Ideal for spreading the coconut pecan filling and ganache evenly.
• Clean Kitchen Towel (dust with powdered sugar): Crucial for rolling the cake while it’s warm to avoid breakage.
• Cooling Rack: Helps the cake cool evenly after baking.

Having these tools ready before starting ensures a smooth process from baking to rolling to frosting. The technique may seem advanced, but with these essentials, it becomes very achievable—even for beginners.

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Ingredients for the Decadent German Chocolate Coconut Pecan Roll Cake

Each ingredient in this roll cake plays a special role in building the layers of flavor and texture:

• Eggs: Provide structure and fluff to the sponge cake, key to keeping it flexible enough to roll.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the sponge cake and helps stabilize the eggs when whipped.
• All-Purpose Flour: The main dry component giving the cake its structure.
• Cocoa Powder: Brings deep chocolate flavor to the sponge layer.
• Baking Powder: Aids the cake in rising slightly, just enough to be light but still rollable.
• Salt: Enhances the chocolate flavor and balances the overall sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, aromatic notes to the sponge and filling.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: The base for the coconut pecan filling, lending rich sweetness.
• Butter: Adds richness and smoothness to both the filling and the ganache.
• Shredded Sweetened Coconut: Offers chewiness and tropical sweetness in every bite.
• Chopped Pecans: Give crunch and nuttiness that balance the soft textures.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Melted into ganache for a glossy, smooth chocolate finish.
• Heavy Cream: Helps make the ganache silky and pourable.

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How To Make the Decadent German Chocolate Coconut Pecan Roll Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a jelly roll pan, line it with parchment paper, and lightly dust with cocoa powder. In a bowl, beat eggs until thick and lemon-colored. Gradually add sugar, then mix in vanilla. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, then fold it into the egg mixture until combined.

Step 2: Bake and Roll

Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Once baked, immediately invert onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off parchment, then gently roll the cake up in the towel from the short end. Let it cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Coconut Pecan Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, and vanilla. Stir in shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Heat until thickened and spreadable, about 5 minutes. Let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Roll

Unroll the cooled cake gently. Spread the coconut pecan filling evenly over the surface, then re-roll tightly. Transfer to a serving platter.

Step 5: Make and Add the Ganache

Melt chocolate chips with heavy cream and butter in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (or microwave in 30-second intervals). Stir until glossy and smooth. Pour over the top of the cake roll. Garnish with extra pecans and shredded coconut if desired.

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Serving and Storing the Decadent German Chocolate Coconut Pecan Roll Cake

To serve, slice the roll cake with a serrated knife for clean, even pieces that showcase the swirled layers inside. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel for added indulgence.

For storing, wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped in parchment and plastic wrap for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

Rolling the cake while it’s still warm and using a sugared towel helps prevent cracks. The warmth makes the sponge pliable, and the towel gives it structure during cooling.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake and roll the cake a day in advance, store it wrapped in plastic, and add the ganache just before serving for the freshest presentation.

What if I don’t have a jelly roll pan?

You can use a quarter sheet pan or a similarly sized baking sheet, just make sure it’s not too deep. The goal is a thin, even sponge that can be rolled easily.

Can I substitute other nuts for pecans?

Absolutely. Walnuts or almonds work well, but pecans provide that classic German chocolate cake flavor and crunch.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container. For best taste and texture, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Can I use store-bought frosting instead of ganache?

You can, but ganache gives a luxurious texture and sheen that complements the coconut filling beautifully. If in a rush, a good quality chocolate frosting will work in a pinch.

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Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If this Decadent German Chocolate Coconut Pecan Roll Cake has your sweet tooth dancing, check out these other creative cake recipes on Life With Olivia:

• Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake — a tropical fusion of fruity and creamy.
• Strawberry Crunch Pound Cake — with a crunchy topping and nostalgic flavor.
• Carrot Pound Cake with Vanilla Glaze — dense, spiced, and drizzled with sweet glaze.
• Easy Texas Turtle Sheet Cake — rich chocolate with caramel and pecans in sheet cake form.
• Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge — quick, creamy, and oh-so-decadent for when time is short.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you toast your pecans for extra flavor? Maybe sneak a bit of rum into the filling?

I love hearing the ways you make each recipe your own. Got questions? Drop them below—we’re baking better together.

Find more delicious dessert inspiration and daily recipes on my Pinterest: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.

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