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German Chocolate Cake Roll

German Chocolate Cake Roll

A rich and visually spectacular dessert, the German Chocolate Cake Roll combines deep chocolate flavors with chewy coconut and a light whipped cream filling, perfect for any special occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American, German
Servings 8 slices
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cake

  • 3/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Provides the necessary structural base.
  • 1/2 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder Delivers the deep, dark color and foundational chocolate flavor.
  • 120 g Semisweet Chocolate (Chopped) Introduces intense chocolate pockets.
  • 1 cup Sweetened Shredded Coconut Adds a chewy, tropical complexity.
  • 4 large Eggs Provides structure and flexibility.
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar Creates a foam for lift.
  • 1/3 cup Vegetable Oil Keeps the sponge moist.
  • 1 tsp Baking Powder Provides slight lift.
  • 1/2 tsp Salt Balances the flavor.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor complexity.

For the Whipped Cream Frosting

  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Should be ice-cold before whipping.
  • 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar Sweetens the frosting.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract Adds flavor.

Instructions
 

Preparation of Sponge Batter

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 15x10 inch jelly roll pan thoroughly.
  • In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until uniform.
  • In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until pale, thick, and light.
  • Add vegetable oil and vanilla extract, mixing well to ensure fats are fully incorporated.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing well to avoid lumps.
  • Stir in sweetened shredded coconut and chopped semisweet chocolate until evenly distributed.

Baking

  • Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 12 to 15 minutes.
  • The cake is done when springy to the touch or a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Immediately roll the cake up with parchment paper.
  • Let the rolled cake cool completely in this position.

Preparing the Whipped Cream Frosting

  • Ensure heavy cream is ice-cold before whipping.
  • Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
  • Continue whipping until soft peaks form; the frosting should be creamy and spreadable.

Assembly and Chilling

  • Carefully unroll the cooled sponge cake.
  • Spread whipped cream frosting evenly over the surface.
  • Gently roll the cake back up into its log shape.
  • Wrap the log and refrigerate before serving.

Notes

For a perfect slice, chill the cake thoroughly for at least 2 hours. Use a long, thin knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts.
Keyword Chocolate Cake Roll, Dessert Recipe, German Chocolate, holiday baking, whipped cream