The holiday season is here, and nothing says Christmas quite like a classic yule log. But why settle for any old log when you can whip up a show-stopping chocolate yule log Waitrose style? This indulgent dessert is the perfect centrepiece for any holiday table, and will have your guests begging for seconds.
Ingredients
- 75g plain flour
- 25g cocoa powder
- 4 large Waitrose British Blacktail Free Range Eggs
- 125g caster sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 100g dark chocolate, chopped
- 150ml double cream
- Icing sugar, for dusting
- Holly leaves, to decorate (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6. Grease and line a 23 x 33cm Swiss roll tin with baking parchment.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and cocoa powder.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and caster sugar together until pale and thick, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Fold the flour mixture into the egg mixture, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared tin and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the sponge is firm to the touch.
- While the sponge is baking, heat the double cream in a saucepan until just below boiling point.
- Remove the cream from the heat and stir in the chopped chocolate until melted and smooth.
- Once the sponge is cooked, remove it from the oven and immediately turn it out onto a sheet of baking parchment dusted with icing sugar.
- Carefully roll the sponge up, along with the parchment, and leave to cool completely.
- Unroll the sponge and spread the chocolate filling evenly over it, then re-roll the sponge without the parchment.
- Dust with icing sugar and decorate with holly leaves, if desired.
- Chill the yule log in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information
Serving size: 1 slice (12 servings per log)
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 30mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 4g
Cooking Time
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Equipment
- Swiss roll tin (23 x 33cm)
- Baking parchment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Saucepan
- Sieve (optional)
Serving Suggestions
This chocolate yule log is a show-stopper on its own, but you can take it to the next level by serving it with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder. For an extra festive touch, try adding some edible gold leaf or sugared cranberries.
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the dark chocolate for milk or white chocolate. You could also add a splash of rum or brandy to the chocolate filling for a boozy twist.
Substitutions
If you don’t have caster sugar, you can use granulated sugar instead. And if you don’t have a Swiss roll tin, you can use a regular baking tray and cut the sponge to size once it’s cooled.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Tips
- Make sure to roll the sponge up while it’s still warm, as it will be more pliable and less likely to crack.
- If you’re worried about the sponge sticking to the parchment paper, try lightly greasing the paper with butter or oil before pouring in the batter.
- For a smoother filling, you can strain the chocolate mixture through a sieve before spreading it onto the sponge.
Notes
This recipe was adapted from Waitrose.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a yule log?
A yule log is a traditional Christmas dessert that’s shaped like a log, hence the name. It’s typically made from sponge cake that’s rolled up with a filling, then decorated to look like a log.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sponge and filling up to a day in advance. Just assemble the yule log and decorate it before serving.
Can I freeze the yule log?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled yule log for up to one month. Just wrap it tightly in cling film and freeze it whole. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
This chocolate yule log Waitrose recipe is the perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth this holiday season. With its rich, chocolatey flavour and festive look, it’s sure to be a hit with your friends and family. So why not give it a try and impress your guests with your baking skills?