Oh, the *Chocolate yule log*! This delightful dessert is like a warm hug on a chilly holiday evening. Every year, I look forward to making this festive treat, and it’s become a cherished tradition in my home. The rich chocolate sponge cake, rolled up with a luscious chocolate cream filling, is not just a feast for the eyes but a total indulgence for the taste buds. I remember the first time I made it; my kitchen was a delightful mess, but the joy on my family’s faces when they took that first bite was absolutely worth it! Trust me, nothing says “happy holidays” quite like a beautifully decorated chocolate log on the table. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace. You’ll want to add this recipe to your holiday repertoire—everyone will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Chocolate Yule Log

Gathering the right ingredients is a key step to making the best *Chocolate yule log*. Here’s what you’ll need:

200g dark chocolate (make sure it’s high-quality for the richest flavor)
100g unsalted butter (softened, to help with that creamy texture)
150g sugar (this will sweeten up our sponge beautifully)
4 large eggs (room temperature is best, trust me on this one)
100g all-purpose flour (sifted, for a light, airy sponge)
50g cocoa powder (unsweetened, because we want to control the sweetness)
1 tsp baking powder (to help that sponge rise just right)
250ml heavy cream (for whipping into a dreamy filling)
50g icing sugar (to sweeten that cream and for a lovely dusting)
1 tsp vanilla extract (because it adds warmth and depth to the flavor)

Make sure to have these ingredients ready before you start baking. It makes the process so much smoother, and you’ll be on your way to a festive masterpiece in no time!

How to Prepare Chocolate Yule Log

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making your *Chocolate yule log*! This is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s easier than it looks. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll have a showstopper dessert that will impress everyone.

First things first, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures your sponge bakes evenly and beautifully.
While the oven heats up, melt the dark chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl. You can do this over a pot of simmering water (a double boiler) or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. Just be careful not to overheat it, or you might end up with a chocolate brick!
In a separate large bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until the mixture turns pale and fluffy. This usually takes about 5 minutes of good whisking. It’s the air in this mixture that will give your sponge that lovely light texture!
Once your chocolate and butter are melted and slightly cooled, gently fold this mixture into the egg mixture. Do this slowly to keep that airy texture we just created.
Next, sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Use a spatula to fold these dry ingredients in. Be careful not to overmix—just until you see no dry bits. This will keep your sponge fluffy!
Now, it’s time to spread your batter onto a lined baking tray. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly, making sure it reaches the corners.
Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it springs back when lightly touched. Keep an eye on it; nobody likes a dry sponge!
Once baked, take the tray out and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer the sponge onto a wire rack to cool completely. This is crucial because rolling it up will be much easier when it’s cool!
While the sponge is cooling, whip the heavy cream with the icing sugar and vanilla extract until it forms soft peaks. This is your creamy filling, and trust me, it’s going to be dreamy!
When the sponge is totally cool, spread the whipped cream evenly over the surface. Then, gently roll it up from one end to the other. Don’t worry if it cracks a little; that just adds to the rustic charm!
Finally, dust the rolled log with icing sugar just before serving. It gives it that snowy, festive look!

And there you have it! Your Chocolate yule log is ready to dazzle your friends and family. Just remember, the key is to take your time and enjoy the process. You’ve got this!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation—whip it up in just 30 minutes, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities!
Festive appearance—this stunning log is sure to be the centerpiece of your holiday dessert table.
Rich flavor—every bite is a chocolate lover’s dream, with a deep, satisfying taste that’s hard to resist.
Delicious chocolate cream filling—this creamy layer adds an indulgent touch that perfectly complements the sponge.
Customizable decorations—get creative with toppings; you can add berries, chocolate shavings, or even a sprinkle of edible glitter!

Tips for Success

Making the perfect *Chocolate yule log* is all about the details! Here are some pro tips that I’ve picked up over the years to help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your dessert is a showstopper:

Use quality ingredients: Trust me, the better your chocolate and butter, the richer and more delicious your Yule log will be. Don’t skimp on these essentials!
Room temperature eggs: Starting with eggs at room temperature helps them whisk up fluffier, which is key for that light sponge. If you forget to take them out in advance, just place them in warm water for a few minutes.
Don’t overbake: Keep a close eye on your sponge while it’s baking. It should spring back when lightly touched. A dry sponge will crack when you roll it, and we don’t want that!
Cool completely: Make sure to let the sponge cool completely before rolling. If it’s still warm, the heat can melt your cream filling, making it messy and hard to handle.
Roll gently: When rolling the sponge, do it carefully and slowly. If it cracks a little, don’t panic! You can always cover it with whipped cream or decorations later.
Chill before serving: If time allows, let your rolled Yule log chill in the fridge for an hour or so before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing easier!
Decorate with flair: Get creative with your decorations! Use fresh berries, chocolate curls, or even a little dusting of cocoa powder to make it look extra special.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a stunning *Chocolate yule log* that’ll wow your friends and family. Happy baking!

Variations of Chocolate Yule Log

If you’re looking to get a little creative with your *Chocolate yule log*, there are so many fun variations you can try! Each twist can bring a new flavor profile, making your dessert even more exciting. Here are some ideas that I absolutely love:

Hazelnut Chocolate Cream: Mix in some finely chopped hazelnuts into the chocolate cream filling for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. You can also use hazelnut spread instead of whipped cream for a decadent twist!
Mint Chocolate: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the whipped cream filling for a refreshing minty kick. Top with crushed peppermint candies for an extra festive touch!
Orange Zest: Incorporate some grated orange zest into the chocolate batter or the cream filling. The citrusy brightness pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate!
Mocha Delight: For coffee lovers, mix in a tablespoon of instant coffee granules into the chocolate batter or the whipped cream to create a mocha-flavored log. It’s like a cozy hug in dessert form!
Fruit Toppings: Instead of just icing sugar, try topping your Yule log with fresh raspberries, strawberries, or even a drizzle of raspberry coulis. The tartness of the fruit contrasts so nicely with the sweet chocolate!
Spiced Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor. This is especially nice if you’re serving it during the colder months!

Don’t be afraid to experiment! Each variation can give your *Chocolate yule log* a unique twist that will surprise and delight your guests. Happy baking and creating!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve created your stunning *Chocolate yule log*, you’ll want to make sure it stays fresh and delicious! Here’s how to store it properly and the best way to reheat if you need to:

Storing: Wrap your Yule log tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps keep it moist and prevents it from absorbing any fridge odors. You can also place it in an airtight container if you prefer. It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: If you want to make your Yule log ahead of time, you can freeze it! Just wrap it well, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: Generally, you won’t need to reheat your *Chocolate yule log*, as it’s best enjoyed chilled. However, if you’d like to warm it up slightly, you can do so by placing it in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Make sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t melt!
Serving: After storing, when you’re ready to serve, simply dust it with a little more icing sugar or add any toppings you’d like. This way, it’ll look as good as it tastes!

Following these storage tips will help ensure that your *Chocolate yule log* remains as delightful as the day you made it. Enjoy every slice!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying your delicious *Chocolate yule log*, it’s always nice to have a rough idea of what you’re indulging in. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per slice—just keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:

Calories: Approximately 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 50mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 25g
Protein: 5g

This delightful treat is certainly rich in flavor, and while it’s perfect for those special occasions, remember to enjoy it in moderation! Happy indulging!

FAQ Section

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter flavor, feel free to swap in milk chocolate. Just keep in mind that it will alter the richness of the overall taste, but it’ll still be delicious!

What if my sponge cracks while rolling?
Don’t worry at all! Cracks add character to your *Chocolate yule log*. Just cover them up with the whipped cream filling or some decorative toppings. Nobody will even notice!

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can! In fact, making your Yule log a day ahead is a great idea. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the fridge and it’ll be ready to impress when it’s time to serve!

What’s the best way to slice the Yule log?
To get those perfect, clean slices, use a sharp knife and dip it in hot water before cutting. Wipe it dry between slices to keep the edges nice and neat. This way, your presentation will be as stunning as the taste!

Can I add different flavors to the cream filling?
Definitely! You can experiment with flavors like almond extract or even a splash of espresso. Just be careful not to overpower the chocolate, as it should still be the star of the show!

Chocolate Yule Log: 5 Tips for a Perfect Holiday Dessert

Author: [email protected]
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A classic festive dessert made of chocolate sponge cake rolled with rich chocolate cream.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Melt dark chocolate and butter together.
In a bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until pale.
Add melted chocolate mixture to the egg mixture.
Fold in flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
Spread the batter onto a lined baking tray.
Bake for 20 minutes.
Cool the sponge on a wire rack.
Whip cream with icing sugar and vanilla.
Spread cream on the cooled sponge and roll it up.
Dust with icing sugar before serving.

Notes

Use high-quality chocolate for best flavor.
Make the log a day ahead for better taste.
Store in the refrigerator until serving.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 350
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 50mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: Chocolate yule log

Spread the love