Are you looking for a delicious and festive dessert for your holiday table? Look no further than the classic chocolate yule log! This rich and decadent dessert is the perfect way to end any holiday meal. But where can you find the best chocolate yule log? In this article, we’ll explore the top places to buy this delicious treat, as well as provide you with a recipe to make your own at home.
Where to Buy Chocolate Yule Log
1. French Bakeries
If you want an authentic chocolate yule log, look no further than your local French bakery. These bakeries specialize in traditional French pastries and desserts, and the yule log (known as “Bûche de Noël” in French) is a staple during the holiday season. Check out your local bakery or patisserie for a delicious and authentic yule log.
2. Supermarkets and Grocery Stores
If you don’t have a French bakery in your area, don’t worry! Many supermarkets and grocery stores carry chocolate yule logs during the holiday season. Look for them in the bakery section or in the frozen food aisle. Just be sure to check the ingredients list and nutritional information to ensure you’re getting a high-quality yule log.
3. Online Retailers
If you’re unable to find a chocolate yule log in your local area, consider ordering one online. Many specialty food retailers and bakeries offer delivery options, so you can have a delicious yule log delivered right to your doorstep. Just be sure to order early to ensure it arrives in time for your holiday celebration.
How to Make Chocolate Yule Log
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs, separated
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and grease with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks and granulated sugar together until thick and pale yellow. Stir in the cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the egg yolk mixture.
- Sift the flour and baking powder over the egg mixture and gently fold until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Once the cake has finished baking, remove it from the oven and immediately flip it out onto a clean kitchen towel. Remove the parchment paper and gently roll the cake up in the towel. Let it cool completely.
- Once the cake has cooled, unroll it and spread the filling evenly over the surface. Roll the cake up tightly, starting at the short end. Cut off the ends of the cake on a diagonal to create a branch-like appearance.
- Spread the melted chocolate over the surface of the cake to create a bark-like appearance. Use a fork to create lines in the chocolate to mimic the texture of a tree trunk.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Nutritional Information
Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 330
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 125mg
Sodium: 140mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 27g
Protein: 5g
Cooking Time
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
Equipment
- 15×10 inch jelly roll pan
- Parchment paper
- Cooking spray
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Clean kitchen towel
- Mixer
- Saucepan
- Fork
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chocolate yule log with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkling of powdered sugar. You can also garnish it with fresh berries or chocolate shavings for an extra special touch.
Variations
If you want to change up the filling, try using a different flavor of buttercream or whipped cream. You could also add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the filling for some extra texture and flavor.
Substitutions
If you’re looking to make this recipe a bit healthier, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or Greek yogurt. You can also use a sugar substitute in place of the granulated sugar.
Storage
The chocolate yule log can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Be sure to roll the cake up tightly in the kitchen towel to prevent cracking.
- Let the cake cool completely before adding the filling to prevent it from melting.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator before adding the melted chocolate to prevent it from melting.
- Use a serrated knife to cut the cake for a clean and even cut.
Notes
This recipe makes one 15-inch yule log, which serves 10-12 people.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a chocolate yule log?
A chocolate yule log (or “Bûche de Noël” in French) is a festive dessert that is traditionally served during the Christmas holiday season. It is made with a chocolate sponge cake that is rolled up with a rich and creamy filling, then covered in melted chocolate to create a bark-like appearance.
What is the history of the chocolate yule log?
The chocolate yule log has its origins in France, where it is known as “Bûche de Noël”. The dessert is said to have originated in the 19th century, when families would burn a large log on Christmas Eve to celebrate the holiday. The tradition of the yule log cake began as a way to enjoy the festive symbolism of the burning log in a delicious and edible form.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the chocolate yule log up to 2 days ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
What can I use instead of cocoa powder?
If you don’t have cocoa powder on hand, you can use unsweetened baking chocolate instead. Simply melt the chocolate and stir it into the egg yolk mixture.
Conclusion
The chocolate yule log is a classic and delicious dessert that is perfect for the holiday season. Whether you choose to buy one from a bakery or make your own at home, this treat is sure to impress your guests. With a rich chocolate sponge cake, creamy filling, and decadent chocolate coating, the chocolate yule log is the perfect way to end any holiday meal. So why not give it a try for yourself?