Introduction to the Yule Log
The holiday season is here, and what better way to kick off the festivities than with a delicious British Baking Show Yule Log? A Yule Log, also known as a Bûche de Noël, is a traditional dessert that originated in France and has become a popular treat around the world. The British Baking Show Yule Log is a festive version of this classic dessert, filled with cream and covered in chocolate frosting. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make this delightful treat, along with some tips and variations to make it your own.
Ingredients
For the cake: – 4 large eggs – 100g caster sugar – 65g plain flour – 40g cocoa powder – 1 tsp baking powder – 1 tsp vanilla extract For the filling: – 300ml double cream – 2 tbsp caster sugar – 1 tsp vanilla extract For the frosting: – 200g dark chocolate, chopped – 200ml double cream – 50g unsalted butter
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Grease and line a 23 x 33cm Swiss roll tin with baking paper. 2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and caster sugar until pale and fluffy. 3. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder, and fold gently until combined. 4. Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and smooth out the surface. 5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake is springy to the touch. 6. While the cake is still warm, turn it out onto a sheet of baking paper dusted with caster sugar. 7. Peel off the baking paper from the base of the cake and trim the edges to make them even. 8. Roll up the cake tightly from one of the shorter edges, with the baking paper inside. Leave to cool completely. 9. To make the filling, whisk together the double cream, caster sugar, and vanilla extract until it forms soft peaks. 10. Carefully unroll the cake and spread the cream mixture over the surface, leaving a 1cm border around the edges. 11. Roll the cake up tightly again, this time without the baking paper. Place it seam-side down on a serving platter. 12. To make the frosting, heat the double cream in a saucepan until it just starts to boil. 13. Remove from the heat and add the chopped chocolate and butter. Stir until melted and smooth. 14. Leave to cool for 10-15 minutes, then spread the frosting over the cake using a palette knife. 15. Use the tines of a fork to create a bark-like texture on the surface of the frosting. 16. Decorate with holly leaves, berries, and a dusting of icing sugar.
Nutritional Information
This recipe serves 8-10 people. Each serving contains: – 364 calories – 23g fat – 36g carbohydrates – 5g protein – 2g fiber
Cooking Time
Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 12-15 minutes Total time: 1 hour
Equipment
– Swiss roll tin – Baking paper – Large mixing bowl – Whisk – Saucepan – Palette knife – Fork
Serving Suggestions
The British Baking Show Yule Log is a show-stopping dessert that is perfect for any holiday occasion. Serve it as a centerpiece for your festive table, and watch as your guests marvel at its beauty. You can also pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Variations and Substitutions
– Add a splash of rum or brandy to the filling or frosting for an extra boozy twist. – Swap out the dark chocolate for milk or white chocolate if you prefer. – Use different decorations such as sugared cranberries, meringue mushrooms, or marzipan holly leaves.
Storage and Tips
The British Baking Show Yule Log can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it covered to prevent it from drying out. When slicing it, use a sharp knife to get clean cuts. Don’t worry if it cracks a little – it adds to the rustic charm of the dessert.
Notes and Frequently Asked Questions
– Why do you need to roll the cake twice? Rolling the cake while it’s still warm helps to prevent it from cracking when you roll it with the filling. Rolling it a second time without the baking paper helps to shape it into a log. – Can I make the cake in advance? Yes, you can make the cake a day ahead and store it in an airtight container until you’re ready to fill and frost it. – Can I freeze the Yule Log? Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the refrigerator before filling and frosting it.
Personal Thoughts and Summary
The British Baking Show Yule Log is a fun and festive dessert that is sure to impress your guests. With its rich chocolate cake, creamy filling, and decadent frosting, it’s the perfect indulgence for the holiday season. The recipe is straightforward, but the end result looks like it took a lot of effort. I love how you can customize it with different decorations and flavors to make it your own. Give it a try this holiday season, and enjoy the delicious taste of tradition!