A Yule Log is a delightful Christmas treat that hails from the United Kingdom, steeped in centuries-old traditions. This festive dessert, also known as Buche de Noel in French, resembles a log typically found burning in the hearth during the holiday season. It’s a beautiful and delicious centerpiece for any holiday gathering, bringing warmth and cheer to your table.
Yule Log
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 100g caster sugar
– 65g self-raising flour
– 40g cocoa powder
– 300ml double cream
– 50g icing sugar, plus extra for dusting
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Handful of fresh berries for garnish
– Optional: chocolate shavings for decoration
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a Swiss roll tin with parchment paper, greasing it lightly.
2. Begin by making the sponge. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and caster sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is pale, thick, and doubled in volume. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
3. Sift the self-raising flour and cocoa powder into the egg mixture. Gently fold them in using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the batter. Make sure there are no streaks of flour left.
4. Pour the batter onto the prepared tin and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the sponge is springy to the touch.
5. While the sponge is baking, lay a clean tea towel on the counter and dust it generously with icing sugar. Once the sponge is ready, turn it out onto the sugared tea towel and carefully peel off the parchment paper.
6. Starting from one of the shorter ends, roll the sponge up with the tea towel inside. Leave it to cool completely.
7. In the meantime, make the filling by whisking the double cream, icing sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
8. Carefully unroll the sponge and remove the tea towel. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the sponge, leaving a small border around the edges.
9. Gently roll up the sponge again, this time without the tea towel. Place it seam side down on a serving platter.
10. Use a spatula to create a bark-like texture on the surface of the log. If desired, decorate with chocolate shavings to mimic bark and fresh berries for a festive touch.
11. Dust the Yule Log with icing sugar just before serving. It can be chilled in the refrigerator to set, but make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Yule Log is a classic Christmas dessert that is sure to impress your guests with its rich chocolate flavor and elegant presentation. It’s a wonderful way to bring a touch of tradition and warmth to your holiday celebrations. Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite flavors like peppermint, orange, or coffee to make it your own. Enjoy the festive spirit of the season with this delicious homemade treat!
