Hazelnut Yule Log Recipes

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert to impress your guests during the holiday season, look no further than hazelnut yule log recipes. This classic French dessert, also known as Bûche de Noël, is a delicious and festive treat that is sure to delight your taste buds. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know to make the perfect hazelnut yule log, from ingredients to serving suggestions.

Ingredients

To make a hazelnut yule log, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 6 large eggs, separated
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup hazelnuts, finely chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg yolk mixture, stirring until well combined.
4. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter until no white streaks remain.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the chopped hazelnuts over the batter.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
7. While the cake is baking, prepare the whipped cream filling. In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
8. Once the cake has cooled slightly, turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel that has been dusted with confectioners’ sugar. Peel off the parchment paper.
9. Spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the cake, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
10. Starting from the short end, roll the cake tightly into a log shape, using the towel to help you roll it up. Place the cake seam-side down on a serving platter.
11. Spread the melted chocolate over the cake, using a spatula to create a bark-like texture. Use a fork to create lines to resemble the rings of a tree.
12. Decorate the cake with additional hazelnuts and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
13. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of hazelnut yule log (1/12 of the recipe) contains approximately:

• Calories: 390
• Total fat: 24g
• Saturated fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 150mg
• Sodium: 220mg
• Total carbohydrates: 40g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Total sugars: 32g
• Protein: 7g

Cooking Time

The total cooking time for hazelnut yule log is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, including 15 minutes of prep time and 1 hour of chilling time.

Equipment

To make hazelnut yule log, you’ll need the following equipment:

• 15×10 inch jelly roll pan
• Parchment paper
• Cooking spray
• Large mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Spatula
• Clean kitchen towel
• Serving platter

Serving Suggestions

Hazelnut yule log is a rich and decadent dessert that pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea. Serve it as the grand finale to your holiday feast or bring it to a potluck or party to share with friends and family.

Variations

You can customize your hazelnut yule log recipe by adding different flavors to the whipped cream filling. Try adding a tablespoon of instant espresso powder for a coffee-flavored filling, or a tablespoon of orange zest for a citrus twist. You can also experiment with different types of nuts or chocolate for the topping.

Substitutions

If you’re allergic to hazelnuts, you can substitute them with almonds, pecans, or walnuts. You can also use a different type of nut flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of the recipe. If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with whipped coconut cream or whipped cream cheese.

Storage

Store your hazelnut yule log in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or foil, for up to three days. You can also freeze the cake for up to one month. To thaw, let the cake sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving.

Tips and Notes

• Make sure to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form to ensure a light and airy cake.
• Don’t overfill the cake with whipped cream filling, or it may be difficult to roll up.
• Use a serrated knife to slice the cake for a clean cut.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a yule log?

A yule log, also known as Bûche de Noël in French, is a traditional dessert served during the Christmas season. It is a cake shaped like a log, decorated with frosting or melted chocolate to resemble bark, and often adorned with festive decorations.

Can I make a yule log in advance?

Yes, you can make a yule log in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze the cake for up to one month.

Can I use a different type of nut for the topping?

Yes, you can use a different type of nut, such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts, for the topping.

Final Thoughts

Hazelnut yule log is a classic and delicious dessert that is perfect for the holiday season. With its rich chocolate cake, whipped cream filling, and crunchy hazelnut topping, it is sure to be a hit with your guests. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and yields impressive results. So why not give it a try and add some festive flair to your holiday table?