As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to start thinking about all the delicious treats we can enjoy during this time of year. One of the most iconic desserts of the season is the yule log cake, also known as a Bûche de Noël. This classic French dessert is a festive and indulgent treat that is perfect for sharing with loved ones. Today, we’re sharing our recipe for yule log cake La Madeleine, a delicious and unique take on this classic dessert.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs, separated
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup Nutella
- Sprigs of fresh rosemary, for garnish
- Icing sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 15×10 inch baking pan with cooking spray and line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat egg yolks and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the egg mixture and mix until well combined.
- In another large bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold egg whites into the batter, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, make the frosting. In a large bowl, beat heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, beat butter and Nutella together until smooth. Gradually add the whipped cream to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
- When the cake is done, carefully remove it from the pan and place it on a clean kitchen towel. Roll the cake up in the towel and let it cool completely.
- Unroll the cake and spread the frosting over the top, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Roll the cake back up, using the towel to help you, and transfer it to a serving platter.
- Using a serrated knife, cut a small diagonal piece off one end of the cake and place it on the side of the cake to resemble a branch. Dust the cake with icing sugar and garnish with rosemary sprigs before serving.
Nutritional Information
Serving size: 1 slice
Calories: 290
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 130mg
Sodium: 85mg
Carbohydrates: 27g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 20g
Protein: 4g
Cooking Time
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Equipment
- 15×10 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Large mixing bowls
- Mixing spoons and spatulas
- Hand or stand mixer
- Serrated knife
Serving Suggestions
This yule log cake La Madeleine is a show-stopping dessert that is perfect for any holiday gathering. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkling of cocoa powder for an extra decadent treat. Pair it with a hot cup of cocoa or your favorite holiday beverage for the ultimate festive experience.
Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and try different flavor combinations. You can swap the Nutella for peanut butter or a different flavored spread. You can also add chopped nuts or fruit to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
Substitutions
If you don’t have Nutella, you can use any other chocolate spread or frosting. You can also substitute the heavy cream for whipped coconut cream or your favorite non-dairy alternative. If you don’t have rosemary, you can use other fresh herbs or skip the garnish altogether.
Storage
Store any leftover yule log cake La Madeleine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving.
Tips
- Be sure to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form for a light and fluffy cake.
- Don’t overmix the batter or the cake may become dense.
- Roll the cake tightly to prevent cracking and to get a clean spiral.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Notes
This recipe yields one yule log cake La Madeleine, serving 8-10 people. For best results, follow the instructions carefully and take your time when rolling the cake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake and make the frosting ahead of time. Store the cake and frosting separately in the refrigerator until ready to assemble.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled cake for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
Can I use a different type of flour?
We recommend using all-purpose flour for this recipe, but you can use cake flour or gluten-free flour if needed.
This yule log cake La Madeleine is a delicious and festive treat that is sure to impress your guests. With its rich chocolate flavor and creamy Nutella filling, it’s the perfect dessert for any holiday gathering. We hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy it as much as we do!