As the festive season approaches, it’s time to start thinking about delicious treats to share with your loved ones. And what could be more festive than a Yule Log? This classic Christmas dessert is a showstopper that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Our Family Circle Yule Log Recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to delight. So, gather your ingredients and let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 150g caster sugar
- 150g self-raising flour
- 50g cocoa powder
- 300ml double cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 50g icing sugar, plus extra for dusting
- Edible decorations, such as holly leaves or berries, to garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/gas mark 6. Grease and line a 33cm x 23cm Swiss roll tin with baking paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until thick and pale. This should take around 5 minutes.
- Sift the self-raising flour and cocoa powder into the bowl and carefully fold in until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and smooth out the surface with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the sponge is springy to the touch.
- While the sponge is baking, lay out a sheet of baking paper and dust it with icing sugar.
- Once the sponge is cooked, remove it from the oven and immediately turn it out onto the prepared baking paper. Remove the baking paper from the bottom of the sponge.
- Starting from the short end, carefully roll up the sponge with the baking paper inside. Leave to cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the double cream, vanilla extract, and icing sugar together until soft peaks form.
- Unroll the cooled sponge and spread the whipped cream mixture over the surface, leaving a 1cm border around the edges.
- Carefully re-roll the sponge, using the baking paper to help you. Place the log onto a serving platter with the seam side facing down.
- Using a sharp knife, cut a diagonal slice from one end of the log and place it on the side of the log to resemble a branch.
- Decorate the Yule Log with edible decorations such as holly leaves or berries, and dust with icing sugar before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 360kcal
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Sugar: 28g
- Fibre: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Salt: 0.2g
Cooking Time
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Equipment
- 33cm x 23cm Swiss roll tin
- Baking paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Serrated knife
- Serving platter
Serving Suggestions
Our Family Circle Yule Log Recipe is perfect as a festive dessert, served alongside mulled wine or hot chocolate. For an extra special touch, add a dollop of brandy cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Variations
Why not try adding a layer of raspberry jam or cherry compote to the whipped cream filling for an extra burst of flavour? Alternatively, swap the cocoa powder for matcha powder to create a festive green tea Yule Log.
Substitutions
If you don’t have self-raising flour, you can use plain flour and add 2 teaspoons of baking powder. You can also substitute the double cream for whipped coconut cream or vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
Storage
The Yule Log can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Remove from the fridge 30 minutes before serving to allow it to come to room temperature.
Tips
- To prevent your sponge from cracking when rolling, use a clean tea towel instead of baking paper to roll the sponge.
- Make sure to sift the flour and cocoa powder to prevent lumps in the batter.
- When whipping the cream, be careful not to overwhip or it will become lumpy.
Notes
Our Family Circle Yule Log Recipe serves 8-10 people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the Yule Log?
Yes, you can freeze the Yule Log for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in cling film and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Can I use a different filling?
Yes, you can use any filling you like, such as chocolate ganache, whipped cream and Nutella, or even a savoury filling like cream cheese and smoked salmon for a Christmas appetizer.
What if I don’t have a Swiss roll tin?
You can use a regular baking tin, but be aware that the sponge may not be as thin and may take longer to cook. You can also use a silicone baking mat to help with rolling the sponge.
Conclusion
Our Family Circle Yule Log Recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for the festive season. With its rich chocolate sponge and creamy whipped filling, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So, why not give it a try and add some festive cheer to your table this Christmas?