Rotolo Di Natale Chocolate Christmas Roll

There’s nothing quite like the cozy warmth and sweet aromas of Italy during the holiday season. As the festive spirit fills the air, families across the country gather in their kitchens to whip up traditional Christmas treats that have been passed down for generations. One such delight is the decadent Rotolo Di Natale, also known as the Chocolate Christmas Roll. This delightful dessert combines the rich flavors of chocolate, nuts, and sweet cream to create a show-stopping sweet treat perfect for festive celebrations.

**Rotolo Di Natale Chocolate Christmas Roll**

**Ingredients:**
– 6 large eggs, separated
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 15×10-inch jelly-roll pan. Line the pan with parchment paper and grease the paper lightly.

2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks and granulated sugar together until thick and pale yellow. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg yolk mixture until well combined.

4. In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter, being careful not to deflate the mixture.

5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.

6. While the cake is baking, place a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and dust it with confectioners’ sugar.

7. Once the cake is out of the oven, immediately invert it onto the prepared towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper.

8. Starting at one short end, gently roll up the cake with the towel inside. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.

9. In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

10. Carefully unroll the cake and spread the whipped cream evenly over the surface. Sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts.

11. Roll the cake back up, without the towel this time. Place it seam-side down on a serving platter.

12. Dust the top of the roll with confectioners’ sugar for a festive finish. Refrigerate for at least an hour before slicing and serving.

Enjoy this luscious Rotolo Di Natale Chocolate Christmas Roll as the perfect ending to your Italian-inspired holiday meal. The combination of rich chocolate, airy sponge cake, and creamy filling is sure to delight your guests and make this dessert a new family favorite. Buon Natale!