Chocolate Peppermint Yule Log Recipe: A Showstopper for Your Festive Table

 

Embrace the timeless tradition of Yule logs with a decadent twist in the Chocolate Peppermint Yule Log. Layers of chocolate sponge cake envelop a luscious peppermint buttercream, creating a log that is as visually appealing as it is indulgent. Finished with a glossy coat of dark chocolate ganache and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, this dessert is a showstopper for your Christmas festivities.

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup hot water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Peppermint Buttercream:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 tablespoons milk

For the Dark Chocolate Ganache:

• 8 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream

For Decoration:

• Crushed candy canes

Steps:

1. Preheat and Prepare:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper.

2. Make the Chocolate Sponge Cake:

• In a bowl, sift together cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
• In another bowl, beat eggs until thick and pale. Gradually add sugar and continue beating.
• Add hot water and vanilla extract to the egg mixture.
• Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.
• Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when touched.

3. Roll the Cake:

• Once baked, immediately turn the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar.
• Roll the cake, starting from the short end, with the towel. Allow it to cool completely.

4. Prepare Peppermint Buttercream:

• In a bowl, beat softened butter until creamy.
• Gradually add powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and milk. Beat until smooth.

5. Unroll and Fill:

• Carefully unroll the cooled cake. Spread a layer of peppermint buttercream evenly over the surface.

6. Roll Again:

• Roll the cake back up, this time without the towel. Place it seam side down on a serving platter.

7. Make Dark Chocolate Ganache:

• In a heatproof bowl, place finely chopped dark chocolate.
• Heat the heavy cream until just simmering and pour it over the chocolate. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.

8. Coat the Yule Log:

• Pour the chocolate ganache over the rolled cake, spreading it evenly over the surface and sides.

9. Decorate:

• While the ganache is still soft, sprinkle crushed candy canes over the Yule Log for a festive touch.

10. Chill:

• Place the Yule Log in the refrigerator to set the ganache for at least 2 hours.

11. Serve and Impress:

• Slice the Chocolate Peppermint Yule Log into portions, revealing the beautiful swirl inside. Serve and savor the holiday magic.

This showstopping dessert not only captures the essence of Christmas with its rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint flavors but also adds a touch of elegance to your festive table. Enjoy the joyous reactions as you present this Chocolate Peppermint Yule Log at your holiday gathering!