Yule Log Cake Recipe: A Festive Holiday Treat
The Yule Log cake, also known as a Bûche de Noël, is a classic Christmas dessert. Its elegant appearance and delicious flavor make it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday celebrations. This recipe will guide you through creating a stunning and tasty Yule Log that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 4 large eggs, separated
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- Pinch of salt
For the Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Chocolate shavings (optional)
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for decoration
Instructions:
Making the Cake:
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10x15 inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Whip the Egg Whites: In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add half of the sugar, continuing to beat until glossy.
- Combine Egg Yolks & Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat egg yolks with the remaining sugar and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
- Fold in Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the flour and cocoa powder, sifted together with the salt, into the egg yolk mixture.
- Combine Wet & Dry: Carefully fold the egg yolk mixture into the whipped egg whites, being careful not to deflate the whites.
- Bake: Spread the batter evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Roll: Immediately after baking, dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar. Carefully invert the cake onto the towel. Peel off the parchment paper. While still warm, gently roll the cake up tightly with the towel, starting from a short end. Let it cool completely.
Making the Filling:
- Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Assembling the Yule Log:
- Unroll & Fill: Carefully unroll the cooled cake. Spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the surface.
- Reroll: Gently reroll the cake.
- Frost: Frost the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream. Use a fork to create a wood-like texture on the frosting.
- Decorate: Decorate with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder to resemble bark. You can also add festive sprinkles or other decorations.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overbake the cake: Overbaking will result in a dry cake.
- Roll the cake while it's still warm: This prevents cracking.
- Chill the cake before frosting: This will prevent the frosting from melting.
- Get creative with decorations: Use your imagination to create a unique and beautiful Yule Log.
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