Yule log

A Yule log, also known as a Yule log cake or Bûche de Noël, is a traditional dessert often enjoyed during the Christmas season in many parts of the world, particularly in Europe. It is shaped to resemble a log and is symbolic of the Yule log tradition, which dates back to pagan winter solstice celebrations.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 4 large eggs
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Prepare the Cake:Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thick.

Stir in the vanilla extract.

Sift the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt into the egg mixture. Gently fold until just combined.

Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the cake is set and springs back when touched.

While the cake is baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar.

Roll and Fill the Cake:Once the cake is baked, immediately invert it onto the prepared kitchen towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper.

Starting from one end, roll the cake and towel together into a tight spiral. Allow it to cool completely in this rolled-up shape.

Prepare the Filling:In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form.

Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.

Assemble the Yule Log:

• Carefully unroll the cooled cake and remove the towel.
• Spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the cake.
• Gently roll the cake back up, without the towel, into a log shape.

Prepare the Frosting:

• In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with the heavy whipping cream, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
• Stir in the vanilla extract.

Frost and Decorate:

• Frost the Yule log with the chocolate frosting, using a spatula or a fork to create a bark-like texture.
• You can also use a knife to create wood-like markings on the frosting.
• Decorate the Yule log with powdered sugar "snow," festive decorations, or edible holly leaves made from marzipan or fondant.

Serve and Enjoy:

• Transfer the Yule log to a serving platter and chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
• Slice and serve the Yule log cake to your delighted guests, savoring the festive flavors of the season.

The Yule log cake is a delightful and symbolic treat that brings warmth and cheer to holiday celebrations.