German chocolate coconut pecan roll cake: 7 Indulgent Layers

Name: German chocolate coconut pecan roll cake: 7 Indulgent Layers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup shredded coconut; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1 cup sweetened condensed milk

July 28, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my ultimate indulgence: the German chocolate coconut pecan roll cake! This cake is a heavenly blend of rich chocolate, sweet coconut, and crunchy pecans that just dances on your taste buds. I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering; everyone was raving about it! It’s become a staple at birthdays and holidays, and honestly, there’s nothing quite like the moment when you slice into that soft, moist cake and reveal those luscious layers. Trust me, the combination of flavors makes every bite feel like a special occasion. You won’t want to miss out on this delightful treat!

german chocolate coconut pecan roll cake - detail 1

Ingredients List

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
1 cup shredded coconut
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup sweetened condensed milk

How to Prepare Instructions

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it helps the cake rise beautifully!
While that’s heating up, grab two round cake pans and grease them with butter or cooking spray, then dust them with flour. This will help your cake come out easily once it’s baked.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything’s well combined for that perfect chocolate flavor.
Now, add in the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smooth and creamy—trust me, you want this batter to be velvety!
Carefully stir in the boiling water. Yes, it’s hot, but this step makes the cake moist and delicious. Don’t worry if the batter seems thin; that’s exactly what you want!
Pour the luscious batter evenly into your prepared pans. Give them a little jiggle to settle the mixture.
Bake in your preheated oven for about 30–35 minutes. To check if they’re done, stick a toothpick in the center of the cakes—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. Patience is key here!
While your cakes are cooling, mix together the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and sweetened condensed milk in a separate bowl. This heavenly mixture will be the icing on the cake, literally!
When the cakes are cool, spread that luscious coconut pecan mixture between the layers and on top of the cake. It’s like a sweet, crunchy hug for your cake!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Don’t you just love a recipe that comes together without a fuss? This German chocolate coconut pecan roll cake is super simple to whip up! With just a few mixing bowls and your trusty whisk, you can create a dessert that looks like it came from a fancy bakery. Plus, the baking time is a breeze!
Rich Flavor: Oh wow, the flavor in this cake is absolutely out of this world! The deep, decadent chocolate pairs perfectly with the sweet coconut and crunchy pecans. Each bite is a symphony of flavors that dance together on your palate. Trust me, you’ll be savoring every morsel!
Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday, a holiday gathering, or just a casual get-together, this cake is your go-to showstopper! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a centerpiece that’ll have everyone talking. Just picture those happy faces as they indulge in a slice—pure joy!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to bake your German chocolate coconut pecan roll cake, here are some pro tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

Measure Carefully: Baking is a science, so make sure you measure your ingredients accurately. A kitchen scale can be a lifesaver for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar!
Room Temperature Ingredients: It’s best to let your eggs and buttermilk sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing. Room temperature ingredients blend better, giving your cake a smoother texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. You want that light, fluffy texture!
Check for Doneness: Baking times can vary based on your oven, so keep an eye on your cakes! If the toothpick test shows a few moist crumbs but not wet batter, you’re golden!
Cool Completely: Allow your cakes to cool completely before spreading the coconut pecan mixture. If they’re even a bit warm, the mixture could melt and slide off—oops!
Chill for Best Flavor: If you can, let your cake sit in the fridge for a couple of hours after assembling. This allows those flavors to meld together beautifully and makes slicing a breeze!
Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to customize your cake! Drizzle some chocolate ganache on top or add a sprinkle of toasted coconut for extra flair. Make it your own!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a show-stopping dessert that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Happy baking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to put your own twist on the German chocolate coconut pecan roll cake, I’ve got some fun ideas for you! Let’s get creative!

Nutty Alternatives: Swap out the pecans for other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a different crunch. Toasting them lightly beforehand will enhance their flavor and give your cake an extra layer of deliciousness!
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of almond extract or coconut extract to the batter for a delightful flavor twist. Just a little bit can elevate the taste and make your cake unforgettable!
Fruity Touch: Toss in some chopped fresh cherries or raspberries into the coconut pecan mixture for a burst of fruity sweetness. It’s a surprising addition that complements the chocolate beautifully!
Chocolate Lovers Unite: For an extra chocolatey experience, fold in some mini chocolate chips into the batter before baking. Because honestly, can there ever be too much chocolate?
Layer Up: Consider making it a three-layer cake! Just double your recipe and add an additional layer of that scrumptious coconut pecan mixture in between. It’s a show-stopper that looks as good as it tastes!
Vegan Version: Want to make it plant-based? Substitute the eggs for flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use almond milk in place of buttermilk. You’ll still get that rich, moist texture!

These variations are just the beginning! Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this cake your own. After all, the kitchen is your playground, and each twist can lead to something deliciously unique!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After you’ve indulged in the deliciousness of your German chocolate coconut pecan roll cake, you’ll want to make sure it stays fresh for as long as possible! Here’s how to store it properly:

Refrigeration: Always store leftovers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Just place your cake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. This will prevent it from drying out and keep those flavors intact!
Serving Temperature: For the best taste experience, serve the cake chilled. Trust me, it enhances the flavors of chocolate, coconut, and pecans, making every bite even more delightful!
Freezing: If you have a lot of leftovers or want to save some for later, you can freeze slices of the cake! Simply wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a piece anytime you need a sweet treat!
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen slice, just take it out and let it thaw in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. No need to reheat—enjoy it cold for the ultimate taste!

With these simple storage tips, you can savor your German chocolate coconut pecan roll cake long after it’s made. Happy baking and storing!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the numbers behind this delicious German chocolate coconut pecan roll cake! Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Here’s a breakdown for one slice:

Calories: 350
Sugar: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 200mg

These delightful stats show that while this cake is a treat, it’s packed with flavor and enjoyment! Just remember to savor each slice and enjoy the sweet moments. Happy baking!

FAQ Section

Got questions about your German chocolate coconut pecan roll cake? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries and answers to help you out:

Can I substitute the buttermilk?
Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using. It’ll work just as well!

What if I don’t have coconut?
No coconut? No problem! You can either leave it out entirely for a simpler chocolate cake or substitute it with crushed cookies for a different texture. Just keep in mind that it won’t have that classic coconut flavor.

Can I use a different type of nut?
Certainly! Feel free to swap out the pecans for walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Each nut will bring its own unique flavor to the cake, so choose your favorite!

How long will the cake last in the fridge?
Your German chocolate coconut pecan roll cake can last about 4-5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. Just make sure to keep it covered so it stays fresh!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake is perfect for making a day or two in advance. Just assemble it and store it in the fridge, and it’ll taste even better as the flavors meld together!

Is it possible to freeze the cake?
Definitely! You can freeze slices or the whole cake after it’s completely cooled. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months!

Do I need to reheat the cake after freezing?
No need to reheat! Just let it thaw in the fridge overnight, and enjoy it cold for the best flavor experience. It’s just as good straight from the fridge!

With these FAQs in mind, you’re all set to tackle any baking adventure! If you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to ask. Happy baking!

"As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases."

You might also like it

Birthday Cookie Bars: 7 Joyful Treats for Every Celebration

Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups: 7 Irresistible Delights

soft and chewy mm chocolate chip cookies 2

Soft and Chewy MM Chocolate Chip Cookies in 15 Minutes

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.