The holiday season is all about spreading joy, love, and warmth. And what better way to do that than by lighting up a delicious yule log for burning? This traditional French dessert is not only a treat for the taste buds but also makes for a stunning centerpiece on your holiday table. So, let’s get started and create a dessert that’s delicious, festive, and perfect for burning on Christmas Eve.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup cake flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Sift in the cake flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
- While the cake is still warm, carefully roll it up along the short end using the parchment paper. Let it cool for 30 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, beat the heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Unroll the cake and spread the whipped cream mixture over it. Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the cream.
- Carefully roll the cake back up and transfer it to a serving platter. Spread the softened butter over the log using a butter knife to create a bark-like texture.
- Use a fork to create ridges all over the buttered surface of the cake to resemble the texture of a log.
- Decorate the yule log with festive decorations like holly leaves, berries, and powdered sugar to resemble snow.
- Light up your yule log and enjoy the warmth and deliciousness it brings to your holiday celebrations!
Nutritional Information
One serving of yule log (1 slice) contains:
- Calories: 321
- Total fat: 17g
- Saturated fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 122mg
- Sodium: 101mg
- Total carbohydrates: 39g
- Dietary fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 5g
Cooking Time
The total cooking time for this recipe is approximately 45 minutes, including prep time.
Equipment
- 15×10 inch jelly roll pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Mixer or whisk
- Serving platter
Serving Suggestions
Yule log is best served with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
Variations
You can customize your yule log by adding different flavors to the whipped cream filling, like peppermint or cinnamon. You can also add chopped nuts or dried fruits for an extra crunch.
Substitutions
If you don’t have cake flour, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour. For a gluten-free version, you can use almond flour or coconut flour. You can also use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a richer flavor.
Storage
You can store your yule log in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Be careful while rolling the cake to avoid cracking.
- Let the cake cool before adding the whipped cream to prevent it from melting.
- Use a serrated knife to slice the yule log for a clean cut.
- Decorate your yule log with fresh holly leaves and berries for an extra festive touch.
Notes
Yule log is also known as bûche de Noël in French, which translates to “Christmas log”.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of the yule log?
The tradition of burning a yule log dates back to medieval times, where it was believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. In France, the yule log became associated with Christmas celebrations and was transformed into a delicious dessert.
Can I make yule log in advance?
Yes, you can make your yule log one day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to decorate it just before serving to prevent the decorations from getting soggy.
Can I freeze yule log?
Yes, you can freeze your yule log for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Yule log is not just a dessert, it’s a holiday tradition that brings warmth and joy to your celebrations. This recipe is easy to follow and will make your holiday table look stunning. So, why not give it a try and create a dessert that’s sure to impress your guests?