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Chocolate Yule Log (Bûche de Noël)

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The Chocolate Yule Log (Bûche de Noël) is a festive rolled sponge cake filled with sweet cream and topped with rich chocolate ganache, resembling a rustic holiday log. It’s a classic and impressive dessert centerpiece for Christmas celebrations.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 10–12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy cream (for filling)
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for filling)
  • 4 oz cream cheese or mascarpone (optional, for filling)
  • 6 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate (for ganache)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (for ganache)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for ganache)
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until thick and pale. Add vanilla extract.
  3. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold into the egg mixture.
  4. Pour batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.
  5. While warm, invert cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off parchment and roll the cake up in the towel. Let cool completely.
  6. For the filling, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla. Add cream cheese or mascarpone if using. Set aside.
  7. Unroll the cooled cake and spread the filling evenly. Roll it back up tightly and place seam-side down.
  8. For the ganache, heat 1/2 cup heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate and butter. Let sit 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
  9. Spread ganache over the cake, using a fork to create a bark-like texture. Refrigerate to set.
  10. Decorate with powdered sugar, berries, rosemary, or other festive toppings before serving.

Notes

  • Roll the cake while warm to prevent cracking.
  • Espresso powder or rum can be added for flavor depth.
  • Add a thin layer of raspberry jam beneath the filling for a fruity twist.
  • White chocolate ganache makes a beautiful snowy alternative.
  • Decorate with meringue mushrooms or sugared cranberries for extra flair.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/chocolate-yule-log-buche-de-noel/