Delicious Chocolate Yule Log Recipe: How to Make the Perfect Holiday Treat

Are you wondering what dessert to make for Christmas this year? How about a delicious chocolate yule log, also known as a bûche de Noël? This festive treat is not only beautiful but also incredibly tasty. Imagine a light and airy sponge cake, filled with a rich chocolate mousse, and covered in a smooth chocolate ganache. It’s a dessert that will impress your family and friends!

Making a chocolate yule log may seem daunting, but with the right tools and instructions, it’s actually quite simple. Start by preparing the sponge cake, which is the base of the log. Whip up eggs, sugar, and flour until you get a light and fluffy texture. Spread the mixture onto baking sheets and bake for just a few minutes. As soon as it comes out of the oven, roll it up in a clean kitchen towel to set its shape.

While the sponge cake cools, you can prepare the filling and the decorations. For the filling, whip up some heavy cream with sugar and amaretto until you get stiff peaks. For the decorations, chop up some hazelnut and cranberries. You can also use sugared cranberries or chocolate decorations for an extra festive touch.

Once the sponge cake is cooled, unroll it and spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the surface. Roll it back up, but this time without the towel. Place it on a serving platter and cover with a smooth chocolate ganache. Use a fork or a spatula to create the texture of a log by spreading the ganache in a diagonal pattern. You can also use a fork to create bark-like lines on the ends of the log.

To finish the yule log, place it in the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the ganache to set. Remove it from the fridge, and it’s ready to be served. Dust the log with powdered sugar to resemble snow. You can also add extra decorations on top, such as whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries. Serve the yule log with a cup of hot cocoa or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat.

This recipe allows for variations and personal touches. For example, you can add a splash of coffee liqueur to the filling for a mocha flavor. You can also try different types of chocolate for the ganache, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate. Get creative with your decorations, and let your imagination run wild!

Now that you have the instructions, there’s nothing stopping you from making the perfect chocolate yule log. Print out the directions, gather your ingredients and tools, and get started. Your family and friends will be amazed at your baking skills when you present them with this show-stopping dessert. So don’t wait any longer – make this delicious treat and spread some holiday cheer!

Delicious Chocolate Yule Log Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping holiday treat, this delicious chocolate yule log recipe is just what you need. With its rich chocolate sponge, creamy buttercream filling, and decadent ganache frosting, this dessert is a festive crowd pleaser. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• Parchment paper
• Printed recipe
• Tools: mixing bowls, hand mixer or stand mixer, spatula, offset spatula, parchment-lined towel, 2 wire cooling racks
• For the chocolate sponge:
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-process)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the buttercream filling:
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon instant coffee powder (or 2 tablespoons strong coffee)
• For the ganache frosting:
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 12 ounces semisweet chocolate, finely chopped

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Mix in the vanilla extract.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, folding gently with a spatula until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the sponge dense.

5. Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it evenly into a thin layer, about 1/4-inch thick. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the sponge springs back when lightly touched.

6. While the sponge is baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel by dusting it with cocoa powder and placing a sheet of parchment paper on top. When the sponge is done, immediately invert it onto the prepared towel and carefully peel off the parchment paper that was lining the baking sheet.

7. Starting from one end, roll the sponge and towel together into a log shape. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.

8. Meanwhile, prepare the buttercream filling. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and instant coffee powder, and continue beating until light and fluffy.

9. Once the sponge is cooled, carefully unroll it and remove the towel. Spread the buttercream filling evenly over the sponge, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.

10. Gently roll the sponge back up, starting from one end, using the parchment paper to help you. Place the rolled log on a wire rack, seam side down.

11. Next, prepare the ganache frosting. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to boil.

12. Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 1-2 minutes to soften the chocolate. Then, stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

13. Pour the ganache over the rolled log, spreading it evenly with an offset spatula to cover all sides. Use the spatula to create a bark-like texture on the frosting.

14. If desired, decorate the yule log with sugared cranberries, meringue mushrooms, or other festive decorations.

15. Refrigerate the yule log for at least 1 hour, or until the ganache is set.

16. Serve and enjoy this delicious chocolate yule log with your loved ones!

Tip: For added flavor, you can toss some chopped toasted hazelnuts or almonds over the buttercream filling before rolling the sponge.

Note: This recipe can also be made with a mocha cream instead of buttercream. Simply replace the butter with an equal amount of heavy cream and beat it until stiff peaks form. Add a tablespoon of instant coffee powder or 2 tablespoons of strong coffee to enhance the flavor.

Variations: If you’re feeling creative, try making different variations of the yule log. You can use white chocolate ganache instead of semisweet chocolate ganache, or add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the buttercream filling for a minty twist. The possibilities are endless!

Now that you have this detailed recipe, you’re ready to make an impressive and delicious chocolate yule log. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this step-by-step video tutorial from Wilton can help guide you through the process.

How to Make

To make this delicious Chocolate Yule Log, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Sponge:

Buttercream Icing:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3: In another bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined.

Step 4: Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly to form a rectangular shape. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the sponge is set and springy to the touch.

Step 5: While the sponge is still warm, dust it lightly with cocoa powder and place a clean kitchen towel over it. Carefully roll the sponge and towel together, starting from one of the shorter sides. Let it cool completely.

Step 6: In the meantime, prepare the buttercream icing by beating the butter in a mixing bowl until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Beat until light and fluffy.

Step 7: Once the sponge has cooled, carefully unroll it and spread a generous layer of buttercream icing over the entire surface.

Step 8: Re-roll the sponge gently, without the towel, to form a log shape. Trim the ends if desired.

Step 9: Place the log on a serving platter and frost the entire surface with the remaining buttercream icing. Use a fork to create lines resembling the texture of a log.

Step 10: Now it’s time for the decorations! You can garnish your Yule Log with any festive elements you like. Some popular options include chocolate leaves, meringue mushrooms, or Christmas-themed icing decorations.

Step 11: If you want a more realistic log appearance, dust the log with cocoa powder to mimic the look of bark.

Step 12: You can also include some hazelnut or gingerbread decorations on top of the log to add extra flavor and texture.

Step 13: Finally, for an extra touch of elegance, lightly dust the log with powdered sugar right before serving.

Step 14: If you want to freeze the Yule Log, do so without the garnishes and decorations. Once the log has been covered in buttercream icing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month.

Step 15: Before serving, remove the log from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours. Add the garnishes and decorations just before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Yule Log! It’s the perfect treat for the holiday season.

Perfect Holiday Treat

When it comes to making the perfect holiday treat, look no further than a delicious Chocolate Yule Log. This festive dessert is a tradition in many households and is sure to impress your family and friends. Using a detailed step-by-step recipe, you can easily create a show-stopping yule log that is both beautiful and tasty!

The key to a successful yule log is in the sponge cake. Start by whisking together the dry ingredients, including flour and cocoa powder. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until they triple in volume. Then, gently fold in the dry ingredients and pour the batter onto a lined baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the cake is firm to the touch.

While the cake is baking, prepare the filling and frosting. One popular option is a buttercream frosting flavored with Frangelico or Kahlua. Another delicious choice is a mocha whipped cream. Once the cake has cooled, spread the filling evenly over the surface, leaving a half-inch border. Starting at one end, carefully roll the cake into a log shape. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for a few hours to set.

While the log is in the freezer, you can prepare the ganache. Melt chocolate and heavy cream together until smooth. Then, let the ganache cool slightly before spreading it over the log. Use a fork to create lines resembling bark, and top with powdered sugar for a snowy effect. You can also decorate with rosemary sprigs or other festive touches.

When it’s time to serve your yule log, simply remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will prevent the cake from sticking to the serving platter. Cut into slices and enjoy!

If you want to add some variety to your yule log, there are many delicious variations to try. For example, you can add finely chopped almonds to the sponge cake for a little crunch. Or, brush the cake with a flavored syrup, such as rosemary or natural almond extract, for added depth of flavor. You can also include different fillings, like a tart cranberry compote or a whipped mint chocolate ganache.

Whatever recipe or variations you choose, the most important part is to have fun and enjoy the process. Making a yule log can be a long and detailed task, but it’s well worth the effort. So gather your tools, turn on some Christmas music, and get ready to create a delicious and beautiful holiday treat that will impress everyone!

Tools You Need

Before you start making this delicious chocolate yule log, there are a few tools you’ll need to have on hand:

• A mixer: You’ll need an electric mixer to whip the egg whites and make the frosting.
• A baking pan: Use a jelly roll pan or a rimmed baking sheet to bake the cake.
• Parchment paper: Line the baking pan with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.
• A whisk: Use a whisk to mix the dry ingredients and to fold in the egg whites.
• A spatula: A spatula will help you spread the frosting and shape the yule log.
• A serrated knife: Use a serrated knife to trim the ends and cut the yule log into servings.
• A pastry bag: If you want to add some decorative details to your yule log, you’ll need a pastry bag.
• Decorations: Get creative with your decorations! You can use sugared cranberries, hazelnuts, or even small Christmas-themed figurines.

Make sure you have all of these tools ready before you start, as they will make the process much easier and more enjoyable!

Ingredients Required

When it comes to making the perfect Chocolate Yule Log, there are several key ingredients that you’ll need. Here’s a list of what you’ll need to have on hand:

For the Cake:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

For the Ganache:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped

Other ingredients you might want to have on hand for decoration:

• Crushed candy canes
• Miniature chocolate Santas
• Christmas sprinkles

Make sure to gather all of your ingredients before you start, as it’s important to have everything ready and within reach. This will help prevent any unnecessary stress or panic while you’re in the midst of mixing and shaping the Yule Log.

Baking Steps

To make the perfect delicious chocolate yule log, follow these step-by-step directions:

Step 1: Preparing the Sponge

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with flour.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until pale and frothy. Sift in the flour and cocoa powder, and gently fold them into the egg mixture with a spatula until well combined.

Pour the sponge mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use an offset spatula to spread the batter into a thin and even layer.

Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the sponge springs back when lightly touched. Remove the sponge from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

Step 2: Rolling the Sponge

While the sponge is still warm, place a clean kitchen towel on top of a larger piece of parchment paper. Dust the towel with a little cocoa powder to prevent sticking.

Carefully invert the baked sponge onto the prepared parchment towel. Gently peel away the parchment paper from the sponge.

Starting from one end, roll the sponge up tightly, along with the towel. This will create a rolled shape. Let it cool completely while rolled to maintain its shape.

Step 3: Making the Chocolate Frosting

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chocolate and coffee. Melt the mixture over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until smooth.

Remove the melted chocolate mixture from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Add in the frangelico and stir until well combined.

In a separate mixing bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until smooth and well incorporated.

Step 4: Assembling the Yule Log

Unroll the sponge and spread a layer of the chocolate frosting over the surface. Reserve some frosting for decorating.

Roll the sponge back up, this time without the towel. Place the rolled sponge onto a serving platter or tray.

Spread the remaining chocolate frosting over the rolled sponge, using a spatula to create a textured surface resembling a log.

Step 5: Decorating the Yule Log

Using a sieve, dust the surface of the yule log with cocoa powder to give it a rustic appearance.

Decorate the log with various festive elements, such as fresh rosemary sprigs, cranberries, meringues, or chopped chocolate for a touch of elegance.

Refrigerate the yule log for at least 2 hours, or until the frosting is firm. This will help the log hold its shape.

Now, your delicious chocolate yule log is ready to be served! Enjoy this traditional and festive treat with a cup of tea or coffee during the holiday season.

Decorations and Toppings

When it comes to decorating your chocolate yule log, the possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Garnish with Cranberries and Rosemary

A beautiful and festive garnish for your yule log is to top it with fresh cranberries and sprigs of rosemary. This adds a pop of color and a touch of elegance to your dessert.

Dusting of Cocoa

For a simple yet elegant finishing touch, dust your yule log with a light sprinkling of cocoa powder. This adds a touch of chocolate flavor and looks stunning on the dark, glossy surface of the log.

Homemade Chocolate Decorations

If you’re feeling extra creative, you can make your own chocolate decorations to adorn your yule log. Melt some chocolate in a small saucepan and pipe it into shapes like mushrooms or branches. Once hardened, carefully peel them off and arrange them on the log.

Whatever decorations you choose, be sure to add them to the yule log just before serving. This will ensure that they remain fresh and don’t become soft or soggy.

When storing your decorated yule log, it’s important to mention that it should be kept in a cool and dry place. Ideally, it should be stored uncovered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to remove it at least 30 minutes before serving to allow it to come to room temperature.

Now that you have the perfect decorations, you can present your delicious chocolate yule log to your guests with pride. Enjoy!

Serving and Storage

Once your delicious chocolate yule log is ready, it’s time to serve and store it properly to ensure maximum enjoyment!

Before serving, make sure to let the yule log cool completely. This will allow the flavors to fully develop and make it easier to handle. You can also place it in the refrigerator for a couple of hours to help it set.

To serve your yule log, gently remove it from the baking sheet and place it on a serving platter. You can leave it as is or use a sharp knife to trim the ends for a neater appearance. Sprinkle some confectioners’ sugar over the log to create a snowy effect.

If you want to get creative with your presentation, you can add some festive decorations. You can use rosemary branches, dusted with confectioners’ sugar to resemble snow-covered tree branches. Add some hazelnuts or cinnamon sticks to mimic logs on a fire. Get creative and make it your own!

When it comes to serving, you can slice the yule log into individual servings, about 1 inch thick. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of your favorite ice cream.

As for storage, the yule log can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. If you have any leftovers, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

The yule log is a wonderful holiday tradition that not only looks amazing but also tastes fantastic. So go ahead and start making your own chocolate bûche de Noël to impress your friends and family!

FAQ

What is a Yule log?

A Yule log is a traditional European dessert made in the shape of a log, typically served during the Christmas season. It is usually made with a chocolate sponge cake rolled with a chocolate filling and frosted with chocolate buttercream to resemble a log.

What ingredients are needed to make a chocolate Yule log?

To make a chocolate Yule log, you will need the following ingredients: 4 eggs, 1 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of cocoa powder, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 3 cups of heavy cream, 12 ounces of semisweet chocolate, and confectioners’ sugar for dusting.

How long does it take to make a chocolate Yule log?

The total time to make a chocolate Yule log may vary, but on average, it takes about 2 hours. This includes the preparation and baking time for the sponge cake, as well as the time to make the chocolate filling and frost the log.

How long will a chocolate Yule log last?

A chocolate Yule log can typically last for up to 3-4 days if stored properly. It is best to keep it refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. However, the texture and taste may slightly change over time, so it is recommended to consume it within the first few days for the best experience.