Chocolate Yule Log
This Chocolate Yule Log is a festive dessert featuring a soft chocolate sponge, whipped cream filling, and a rich chocolate ganache, making it perfect for holidays.
Ingredients
For the sponge
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the filling
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the ganache and decoration
- 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh cranberries for garnish
Instructions
Baking the Sponge
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat eggs with granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
- Gradually sift in flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, folding gently until combined.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes, until it springs back when touched.
- Immediately turn the cake out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Remove the parchment paper and roll the cake up in the towel from the short end. Let cool.
Filling and Ganache
- For the filling, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Once the cake is cool, unroll it and spread the whipped cream filling evenly on top, then re-roll the cake without the towel.
- For the ganache, melt chocolate and butter together until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
Assembly and Decoration
- Place the rolled cake seam side down on a serving platter and pour the ganache over it, smoothing it out to resemble tree bark.
- Decorate with powdered sugar and fresh cranberries before serving.
Notes
Store the Yule Log in the fridge, covered loosely with plastic wrap. For better texture, take it out 20–30 minutes before serving to let the cream soften. You can freeze the log wrapped tightly for up to one month; thaw overnight in the fridge. Use boiled sugar water to keep cranberries from sticking.