Christmas is around the corner and it’s time to indulge in some delicious treats. One of the most popular desserts during this time is the French Christmas Log Cake, also known as Bûche de Noël. This cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. It’s a showstopper dessert that is sure to impress your guests. In this article, we will be sharing a detailed recipe for the French Christmas Log Cake that you can make at home and make your festive season unforgettable.
Ingredients:
- For the Sponge:
- 6 Eggs
- 3/4 cup Sugar
- 1 cup Flour
- 1/4 cup Cocoa Powder
- 1/4 cup Melted Butter
- For the Frosting:
- 2 cups Heavy Cream
- 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- For the Decoration:
- 1/2 cup Chocolate Chips
- 1/4 cup Powdered Sugar
- 1/4 cup Cocoa Powder
- 1/4 cup Whole Milk
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until fluffy and pale yellow.
- Sift in the flour and cocoa powder, and fold gently until well combined.
- Stir in the melted butter and mix well.
- Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, and spread it evenly to form a thin layer.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel and remove the parchment paper.
- Roll up the cake tightly in the towel and let it cool completely.
- Meanwhile, prepare the frosting by beating the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Unroll the cake and spread the frosting evenly over the surface.
- Roll up the cake again tightly, using the towel to help you.
- Cut off a small piece from one end and place it on top of the log to resemble a branch.
- Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave and drizzle it over the log to resemble bark.
- Sift the powdered sugar and cocoa powder over the log to resemble snow.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Nutritional Information:
Serving size: 1 slice (1/8th of the cake)
- Calories: 365
- Total Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 152mg
- Sodium: 67mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 6g
Cooking Time:
Total time: 2 hours 30 minutes (Prep time: 30 minutes, Cook time: 15 minutes, Chill time: 1 hour 45 minutes)
Equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Clean kitchen towel
- Spatula
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Sifter
- Refrigerator
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the French Christmas Log Cake chilled, with a dusting of powdered sugar and cocoa powder. You can also add some fresh berries or whipped cream on the side for an extra festive touch.
Variations:
You can add different flavors to the frosting, such as peppermint extract, orange zest, or rum. You can also add some chopped nuts or dried fruits to the filling for some texture and crunch.
Substitutions:
You can use vegetable oil instead of melted butter in the sponge. You can also use different types of flour, such as almond flour or gluten-free flour, for a different texture. For a lighter version, you can use whipped cream cheese instead of heavy cream for the frosting.
Storage:
The French Christmas Log Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out. You can also freeze it for up to 1 month, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips:
- Make sure to beat the eggs and sugar until they are pale yellow and fluffy, as this will give the sponge its light and airy texture.
- When rolling up the cake, make sure to do it tightly to prevent it from cracking. Use the towel to help you roll it up and apply gentle pressure with your hands.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to let the frosting set and make it easier to slice.
Notes:
The French Christmas Log Cake is a traditional dessert in France, usually served during the festive season. It’s a festive and delicious treat that is sure to impress your guests. You can customize it with different flavors and decorations to make it your own.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make the cake ahead of time?
- Can I use a different frosting?
- Can I make the cake without cocoa powder?
- Can I use a different shape for the cake?
Yes, you can make the cake a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Add the decorations just before serving.
Yes, you can use any frosting of your choice, such as buttercream, cream cheese, or ganache.
Yes, you can omit the cocoa powder and make a vanilla sponge instead.
Yes, you can use a round or square baking pan instead of a sheet pan, and shape the cake accordingly.
Conclusion:
The French Christmas Log Cake is a festive dessert that is sure to impress your guests. It’s a delicious treat that combines a light and airy sponge with a creamy and indulgent frosting, and is topped with chocolate and powdered sugar to resemble a log covered in snow. This cake is easy to make at home and can be customized with different flavors and decorations to suit your preferences. So, go ahead and give it a try this festive season and make your celebrations even more special.