How about a delightful Christmas dessert recipe for a classic Yule log cake (BΓ»che de NoΓ«l)? Here it is:
Ingredients:
For the cake:
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream, as needed
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs with an electric mixer until thick and lemon-colored. Gradually add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the filling. In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
- When the cake is done, immediately loosen the edges with a knife and invert it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper.
- Starting at one short end, roll the cake and towel together into a log. Place seam side down on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cake has cooled, carefully unroll it and spread the filling evenly over the surface. Re-roll the cake without the towel and place it seam side down on a serving platter.
- To make the frosting, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
- Frost the outside of the Yule log cake with the chocolate frosting, using a fork to create a bark-like texture. Decorate with powdered sugar, cocoa powder, meringue mushrooms, or fresh berries as desired.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy your festive and delicious Christmas dessert!
