In the midst of the holiday season, there’s something truly special about embracing traditions that bring warmth and joy to our homes. One beloved tradition that never fails to delight both young and old alike is the making of a Traditional Christmas Log Cake. This iconic dessert, also known as a Yule log, holds a rich history dating back to the European celebration of the winter solstice. Today, this cake serves as a delicious centerpiece for festive gatherings, blending flavors of chocolate, cream, and holiday cheer. Learn how to create your own show-stopping Traditional Christmas Log Cake with this easy-to-follow recipe.
**Traditional Christmas Log Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Optional: powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and festive decorations for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 10×15-inch baking sheet with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on high speed until the mixture is pale, thick, and tripled in volume, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt over the egg mixture. Gently fold in the dry ingredients using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to deflate the batter.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract, then pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet. Use an offset spatula to spread the batter evenly to the edges. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
5. While the cake is baking, prepare the cream filling. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract until soft peaks form. Set aside in the refrigerator.
6. Once the cake is done, immediately invert it onto a clean kitchen towel generously dusted with cocoa powder. Gently peel off the parchment paper. Roll the cake, starting from one short end to the other, allowing the towel to wrap around the cake as you roll. Place seam-side down and let it cool completely.
7. In a heatproof bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
8. Carefully unroll the cake and spread the peppermint whipped cream over the surface, leaving a border around the edges. Reroll the cake without the towel, making sure it’s snug but not too tight. Trim the ends for a clean finish.
9. Place the log on a serving platter and pour the melted chocolate over the top, using a spatula to create a bark-like texture. Add creative swirls to mimic tree rings if desired.
10. Refrigerate the Christmas Log Cake for at least 1 hour to set the chocolate. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and decorate with festive touches like sugared cranberries or mini gingerbread cookies.
This Traditional Christmas Log Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a labor of love that captures the essence of the holiday spirit. May the process of creating this delightful treat bring you closer to your loved ones and create lasting memories. Enjoy the magic of the season as you share slices of this stunning cake with those who matter most.
