The Christmas Log Cake, also known as Bûche de Noël, is a festive dessert that brings warmth and joy to holiday gatherings. With its rich chocolate flavor and creamy filling, this rolled cake is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Perfectly reminiscent of a log, it’s a delightful way to celebrate the season and impress your loved ones.
Why Make This Christmas Log Cake
This Christmas Log Cake stands out as a centerpiece dessert that combines decadence and elegance. Each slice reveals a beautiful swirl of chocolate sponge and whipped cream, making it perfect for holiday parties. What makes this cake special is its versatility; you can dress it up with festive decorations or keep it simple for a casual gathering. The soft texture of the cake, complemented by the smooth filling, provides a delightful experience for anyone lucky enough to take a bite. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to create lasting memories in the kitchen with family and friends.
How to Make Christmas Log Cake
Making this delightful Christmas Log Cake is not as daunting as it may seem. While it may take some time to prepare, the process is straightforward and rewarding. Follow the steps carefully, and you’ll end up with a beautiful dessert that’s sure to be the talk of your holiday celebration.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for decoration
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a light texture.
- Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the egg mixture and mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it; overbaking can lead to a dry cake.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar. Invert the cake onto the towel, remove the pan, and peel off the parchment paper. Roll the cake up in the towel, starting from a short end, and let it cool completely. This helps maintain the shape.
- For the filling, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking.
- Unroll the cooled cake gently, spread the whipped cream filling evenly over it, and roll it back up carefully.
- Frost the outside of the cake with the remaining filling, then decorate with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder. Serve immediately and enjoy the compliments!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of the Christmas Log Cake contains approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 4g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
How to Serve Christmas Log Cake
The Christmas Log Cake is best served chilled or at room temperature. It makes a splendid dessert after a festive holiday dinner and pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa. For an added touch, you could serve slices with a dollop of extra whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How to Store Christmas Log Cake
To keep your Christmas Log Cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 3 to 5 days. If you have leftover cake, you can also freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn, and let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Log Cake
- Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better volume when beaten.
- Sift your dry ingredients to eliminate lumps and help the cake rise.
- For a touch of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of orange zest to the cream filling.
- Be gentle when unrolling the cake. If it cracks slightly, don’t worry! Layer your frosting thicker in those areas; nobody will notice after decorating.
- Don’t skip the powdered sugar on the towel; it helps prevent the cake from sticking.
Delicious Variations
- Coffee Flavor: Add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the whipped cream for a delightful coffee-flavored filling.
- Mint Chocolate: Mix a few drops of peppermint extract into the whipped cream for a festive twist.
- Fruit-Filled: Replace part of the whipped cream with a layer of fresh berries, adding a refreshing contrast to the chocolate.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I make the cake ahead of time? Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it rolled up in the towel until you’re ready to fill and decorate it.
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What can I substitute for heavy cream? You can use coconut cream for a dairy-free option or a whipped topping alternative, though the texture may vary.
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How do I prevent my cake from cracking when rolling? Ensure that you let your cake cool slightly before rolling. Additionally, rolling it in a towel right away helps it hold its shape.
Conclusion
The Christmas Log Cake is a delightful addition to your holiday celebrations. Not only is it visually stunning, but it’s also filled with rich flavors and a light texture that will tantalize your taste buds. So gather your ingredients and share this charming cake with your loved ones this Christmas! Don’t forget to share your creations and experiences – we would love to hear how your baking adventure went! Happy baking!
