Are you ready to add some holiday cheer to your kitchen? Look no further than the Hallmark Happy the Cat Yule Log! This recipe is perfect for cat lovers and anyone who wants to create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere during the winter season.
Ingredients
- 1 box of chocolate cake mix
- 1 can of chocolate frosting
- 1 bag of pretzel sticks
- 1 bag of chocolate chips
- 1 tube of black decorating gel
- 1 tube of white decorating gel
- 1 edible cat face decoration (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the instructions on the box.
- Pour the batter into a greased jelly roll pan and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely.
- Spread the can of chocolate frosting over the entire surface of the cake.
- Break the pretzel sticks into small pieces and arrange them on the frosting to create a log shape.
- Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals until smooth.
- Using a fork, drizzle the melted chocolate over the pretzel sticks to create the appearance of bark.
- Using the black decorating gel, draw on Happy the Cat’s face and stripes.
- Using the white decorating gel, add highlights to Happy’s face and stripes.
- Add the edible cat face decoration, if desired.
- Let the cake set in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information
Serving size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 53g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 37g
- Protein: 3g
Cooking Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Equipment
- Jelly roll pan
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Fork
- Decorating gel tubes
Serving Suggestions
This festive yule log is perfect for any holiday gathering or as a fun dessert for a cozy night in. Serve with a warm cup of cocoa or eggnog for the ultimate winter treat.
Variations
Feeling creative? Try using different flavors of cake mix and frosting to customize your yule log. You can also experiment with different decorations or toppings to make it your own.
Substitutions
If you prefer not to use a boxed cake mix, you can make your own chocolate cake from scratch. You can also substitute the chocolate frosting with vanilla or cream cheese frosting if you prefer a different flavor.
Storage
Store leftover yule log in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Make sure the cake has cooled completely before spreading on the frosting to prevent it from melting.
- Use a serrated knife to cut the cake into slices for a more realistic bark appearance.
- Experiment with different decorating techniques to create your own unique cat face design.
Notes
This recipe can be easily adapted to fit different dietary needs by using gluten-free cake mix or vegan frosting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, feel free to use any type of chocolate chips you prefer.
Do I have to use pretzel sticks for the bark?
No, you can also use crushed graham crackers, shredded coconut, or any other topping that resembles tree bark.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the yule log up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.
Personal Thoughts
The Hallmark Happy the Cat Yule Log is a fun and festive recipe that is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s faces. The combination of chocolate cake, frosting, and pretzel sticks creates a delicious and realistic-looking log, while the cat face decoration adds a cute and playful touch. I highly recommend trying this recipe out for yourself and sharing it with friends and family during the holiday season.