Name: Yule Log
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 people
Ingredients: 4 Eggs; 120 g of White Sugar; 100 g of All Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon of Baking Powder; Mezza of Vanilla Pods; 130 g of Dark Chocolate; 300 ml of Fresh Cream

The Yule Log, also known as the Christmas Log or Bûche de Noël, is a classic dessert that captures the essence of the holiday season. This delightful treat, with its rich history and mouth-watering flavors, is a favorite during Christmas time, celebrated for its unique presentation and delectable taste. In Italy we called this “Tronchetto di Natale“, that translates to Christmas (Natale) “Small Log” (Tronchetto) in English

Originating from European traditions, the Yule Log is a symbol of warmth and festivity. It’s designed to resemble a log, reflecting the ancient practice of burning a real log during the winter solstice as a part of Yuletide celebrations. This culinary adaptation is not just a nod to history but also an artistic masterpiece, often decorated with intricate designs to mimic the bark of a tree, complete with festive adornments like holly, berries, and dusted with snow-like powdered sugar.

The Yule Log is typically made from a Soft Sponge Cake, often flavored with chocolate or vanilla, and filled with a rich buttercream or ganache. Rolled into a log shape, it’s then frosted with more buttercream, skillfully worked to resemble the rough texture of tree bark. The Chocolate Flavor is particularly popular, offering a deep, indulgent taste that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.

This dessert isn’t just about taste; it’s a visual centerpiece for any holiday table. The artistry involved in creating the bark texture and adorning it with festive decorations makes it a focal point of Christmas dinners. It’s a perfect combination of culinary skill and creativity, making it as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at this festive dessert for the first time, the Yule Log is a rewarding challenge. Its rich flavors and stunning presentation make it a beloved part of holiday traditions. This recipe is sure to impress your guests and add a touch of magic to your holiday feast. With each slice, the Yule Log brings a piece of history, art, and culinary delight to your Christmas celebrations.

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Instructions

To make the Yule Log, begin by preparing the cookie dough. In a bowl, whisk the egg whites and set them aside. Next, whisk the egg yolks with the vanilla seeds and sugar until the mixture becomes creamy.

Insert the beaten egg whites, mixing from the bottom up gently so as not to disassemble. Add the sifted flour and baking powder and mix. Pour the mixture inside a baking pan lined with 22×33 cm baking paper and level it.

Bake at 380°F (190°C) for about 9 to 10 minutes, checking with a toothpick test. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes, then invert the baked cookie dough onto another sheet of baking paper and gently peel off the one used previously. Cover with a new sheet and roll tightly. Let cool with the seal facing down.

Now prepare the filling: coarsely chop the chocolate, collect it in a bowl and pour the hot cream over it. Stir until the mixture is lump-free. Let cool and then refrigerate for 30 minutes. Whip with electric whips until you have a light, frothy ganache.

Use some of it to stuff the roll and close it up. Wrap it in food wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for 1 hour. Using a knife, even out the ends and cut a log diagonally. Lay it along the main roll and then spread it with the remaining ganache. Line with the tines of a fork and decorate with red currants.

After you finish decorating let it rest for an additional hour in the refrigerator before serving your Homemade Christmas Log.

Yule Log

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