Description

A festive classic Yule Log made with a light chocolate sponge cake rolled around rich chocolate buttercream and finished with a glossy ganache that resembles real tree bark. Elegant, nostalgic, and perfect for holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

4 large eggs

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for buttercream)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for buttercream)

2 tablespoons milk

1/4 teaspoon salt (for buttercream)

8 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped

1 cup heavy cream

1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for ganache)

Powdered sugar, for dusting

Fresh holly leaves and berries (optional, decorative only)

Marzipan or fondant mushrooms (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Whisk eggs and granulated sugar until pale, thick, and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract.
Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold into the egg mixture.
Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake until the cake springs back lightly when touched.
Turn the warm cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with cocoa powder. Roll gently with the towel and let cool completely.
For the buttercream, beat softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla, milk, and salt until light and fluffy.
Unroll the cooled cake carefully, spread buttercream evenly, and re-roll without the towel. Place seam-side down.
Heat heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over dark chocolate and butter. Let sit, then stir until smooth.
Spread ganache over the cake and use a spatula or fork to create a bark-like texture.
Decorate with powdered sugar, holly, or marzipan mushrooms if desired.

Notes

Roll the cake while warm to prevent cracking.

Use dark chocolate to balance sweetness.

Let the cake rest at room temperature before serving for best texture.

Decorations are optional but add a festive touch.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 520
Sugar: 38g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 21g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 145mg