Indulge in the festive spirit with this Chocolate Yule Log Cake recipe that will surely impress your family and friends this holiday season. Also known as Bûche de Noël in French, this traditional Christmas dessert resembles a log ready to be placed on the fire. Not only is it visually stunning, but it’s also a delicious showstopper that will bring joy to your holiday table.
Chocolate Yule Log Cake
Ingredients:
– For the Cake:
– 4 large eggs
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
– ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp baking powder
– ¼ tsp salt
– For the Filling:
– 1 ½ cups heavy cream
– ½ cup powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– For the Chocolate Ganache:
– 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until thick and pale, about 5 minutes.
3. Sift the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt over the egg mixture. Gently fold until combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the filling by whipping the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
6. Carefully invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper and roll the cake along with the towel. Let it cool completely.
7. Unroll the cake and spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the surface. Roll the cake back up without the towel and place seam side down on a serving platter.
8. For the ganache, place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. In a saucepan, heat the cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate, let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Add the butter and stir until melted.
9. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring it over the cake log. Use a fork to create a bark-like texture on the ganache.
10. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. Decorate with powdered sugar, meringue mushrooms, or fresh berries for a festive touch.
Warm up your kitchen with the delightful aroma of this Chocolate Yule Log Cake while creating lasting memories with your loved ones this Christmas. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying out a new recipe, this traditional holiday treat is sure to bring smiles and joy to all who gather around your table. Enjoy the process of creating this beautiful and delicious dessert that will be the star of your festive spread. Happy baking and happy holidays!
