The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and delicious food. If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert to impress your guests, look no further than the yule log serving plate. This beautiful dish is the perfect combination of festive flair and decadent flavor. Here’s how to make it.
Ingredients:
- 1 large chocolate cake
- 1 batch of chocolate buttercream frosting
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup of cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- Assorted fresh berries (cranberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- Edible gold leaf (optional)
Instructions:
- First, bake your chocolate cake according to your favorite recipe or use a boxed mix. Let it cool completely before moving on.
- While the cake is cooling, make your chocolate buttercream frosting. In a stand mixer or with a hand mixer, beat together 1 cup of softened butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, 1/4 cup of milk, and 1 tsp of vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
- Trim the edges of your cake to create a rough rectangular shape, then cut the cake in half lengthwise. Spread a layer of frosting on top of one half, then place the other half on top to create a sandwich. Spread frosting all over the outside of the cake, using a spatula to create a bark-like texture.
- Use a fork to create grooves in the frosting to resemble bark. Place fresh rosemary sprigs on top of the cake to resemble branches.
- Decorate the cake with fresh berries and edible gold leaf, if desired.
Nutritional Information:
Serving size: 1 slice
Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 30g
Protein: 4g
Cooking Time:
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Equipment:
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Spatula
- Fork
Serving Suggestions:
The yule log serving plate is a stunning centerpiece for any holiday gathering. Serve it with whipped cream, hot cocoa, or coffee for a cozy and indulgent experience.
Variations:
For a different spin on the classic yule log serving plate, try adding a layer of raspberry or cherry jam between the cake layers. You can also swap out the chocolate cake for a vanilla or red velvet cake, or experiment with different frosting flavors like peppermint or eggnog.
Substitutions:
If you don’t have fresh rosemary, you can use other herbs like thyme or sage to create a similar effect. You can also substitute the berries for other fresh fruit like sliced oranges or pomegranate seeds.
Storage:
The yule log serving plate can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
Tips:
- Make sure your cake is completely cooled before frosting it, or the frosting will melt and slide off.
- If you don’t have edible gold leaf, you can use gold sprinkles or glitter instead.
- For a more rustic look, don’t worry about making the frosting perfectly smooth. Imperfections will only add to the charm.
Notes:
If you’re feeling ambitious, you can make your own edible gold leaf by brushing gold luster dust onto sheets of edible wafer paper and cutting them into shapes.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make the yule log serving plate ahead of time?
Yes! The cake can be baked up to a week in advance and stored in the freezer until you’re ready to decorate it. You can also make the frosting up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before using it.
How do I transport the yule log serving plate?
The yule log serving plate can be a bit delicate, so it’s best to transport it in a sturdy cake carrier. If you don’t have a cake carrier, place the cake on a flat surface in your car and drive carefully.
Can I make the yule log serving plate without rosemary?
Yes, the rosemary is just for decoration and can be omitted if you don’t have any on hand.
The yule log serving plate is a festive and delicious dessert that will impress your guests and add a touch of whimsy to your holiday table. Don’t be intimidated by the intricate decorating – with a little patience and creativity, anyone can create a stunning yule log serving plate. Give it a try and see for yourself!