The holiday season is all about joy, warmth, and of course, delicious treats! If you’re looking to add a touch of festive magic to your table, consider baking a Yule Log Cake, also known as a Buche de Noel. This delightful dessert not only tastes incredible but also adds a charming centerpiece to your holiday spread.
Chocolate Cake Goodness
Ingredients:
- 4 eggs, separated and room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup cake flour
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon espresso powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 10×15 baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Whip egg whites in a stand mixer until soft peaks form. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until pale yellow. Add vanilla and set aside.
- In another bowl, whisk together cake flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, espresso powder, and salt.
- Combine the dry mixture with the egg yolk mixture, and then fold in the whipped egg whites.
- Pour the batter onto the prepared pan and bake for 10-12 minutes, until spongey and bounces back when touched.
Tip: Use a flour sifter for an even layer, and roll the cake in a powdered sugar-covered towel while it’s warm.
Decadent Chocolate Ganache
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces bittersweet or dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- ¾ cup heavy cream
Instructions:
- While the cake bakes, make the ganache by combining chocolate, butter, vanilla, and salt in a bowl.
- Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until edges start to bubble. Pour over the chocolate mixture, let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth. Set aside to cool.
Tip: Refrigerate ganache until ready to use, giving it a stir before frosting the cake.
Whipped Cream Filling
Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
Instructions:
- Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla, whip until stiff peaks form.
Assemble the Yule Log Cake
- Carefully unroll the completely cooled cake.
- Add an even layer of whipped cream filling, leaving about ½” space on the edges.
- Gently re-roll the cake and move it, seam side down, to a serving platter.
- Use a spatula to coat the outside with chocolate ganache frosting.
Time to make it look like a log!
- Use a fork to create wood-like lines.
- Use a toothpick or skewer to draw lines and spirals.
- Use a small spatula to add wavy texture.
Garnish and Enjoy!
Let your creativity shine by garnishing your Yule Log Cake. Fresh cranberries, rosemary sprigs, and a dusting of powdered sugar add a festive touch. Slice, serve, and savor the joy of the holidays with this delightful treat that’s sure to become a cherished tradition!