Nutty Yule Log: A Chocolatey Joy

Nutty Yule Log: A Chocolatey Joy

As the holiday season approaches, indulge in the delightful taste of a Nutty Yule Log. This chocolatey masterpiece not only makes for a stunning centerpiece on your festive table but also satisfies every sweet tooth with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Discover the joy of making this traditional dessert with a nutty twist that will leave your guests asking for more.

Ingredients

• For the Cake:

  • 4 large eggs, separated
  • 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
  • 50g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour
  • 25g (1/4 cup) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

• For the Filling:

  • 200ml (3/4 cup) heavy cream
  • 100g (3.5 oz) dark chocolate, finely chopped
  • 50g (1/2 cup) finely chopped mixed nuts (e.g., walnuts, hazelnuts, and almonds)

• For the Frosting:

  • 200g (7 oz) dark chocolate, melted
  • 100ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream
  • 50g (1/2 cup) icing sugar

• 

  Optional Garnish:

  • Whole nuts
  • Icing sugar for dusting

Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Cake:

   1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 33×23 cm (13×9 inch) jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
   2. In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks and sugar until thick and pale. Stir in vanilla extract.
   3. In another bowl, whisk the egg whites with salt until stiff peaks form.
   4. Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture.
   5. Sift flour and cocoa powder over the mixture and fold until just combined.
   6. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cake springs back when lightly pressed.
   7. Turn the cake onto a clean, damp kitchen towel dusted with cocoa powder. Peel off the parchment paper. Roll up the cake, with the towel inside, and let it cool completely.

2. Prepare the Filling:

   1. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Stir until smooth.
   2. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then fold in the chopped nuts.

3. Assemble the Cake:

   1. Unroll the cooled cake and spread the chocolate nut filling over it.
   2. Gently roll up the cake again, without the towel, into a tight log shape. Place seam side down on a serving platter.

4. Prepare the Frosting:

   1. Mix the melted chocolate and heavy cream until smooth. Allow to cool slightly, then whisk in the icing sugar until smooth and thick.
   2. Spread the frosting evenly over the entire log, using a fork to create a bark-like texture.

5. Garnish and Serve:

   1. Decorate with whole nuts and dust with icing sugar for a wintry effect.
   2. Refrigerate the log for at least 1 hour before serving for best results.

Nutritional Value and Pairings

The Nutty Yule Log is a delightful indulgence, rich in flavors and textures. While this dessert is calorie-dense due to the chocolate and nuts, it also offers some nutritional benefits such as protein from the nuts and antioxidants from the dark chocolate.

Pair this festive treat with a light and refreshing side, such as a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to balance the richness. For beverages, consider serving a robust coffee or a glass of sweet dessert wine like a Moscato d'Asti or a chilled glass of Prosecco, which complements the chocolate flavors beautifully.

This holiday season, let the Nutty Yule Log enhance your celebrations with its delightful combination of textures, flavors, and festive flair.