Chef Mitchell preparing Festive Chocolate Log Dessert
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the joy of making chocolate logs during a culinary class in Paris. The combination of flavors and textures captivated my heart, and I spent years perfecting this recipe. Each holiday season, I look forward to sharing this dessert with family and friends. It's more than just a dessert; it's a tradition that brings everyone together in celebration."

With over a decade of experience in French cuisine, Chef Mitchell has a deep passion for creating exquisite desserts. His culinary journey began in a renowned culinary school, where he honed his skills in pastry arts. He has since developed over a thousand recipes, specializing in French desserts that delight the senses.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Festive Chocolate Log Dessert served on a plate

Why This Festive Chocolate Log Dessert Recipe Works

This Festive Chocolate Log Dessert is special due to its unique presentation and rich flavor. The rolled sponge cake, infused with chocolate, captures the essence of a classic French Yule log. The creamy filling adds a luxurious touch, making every bite a delightful experience. It's a showstopper dessert that will impress your guests.

The technique of rolling the cake while it's still warm ensures a moist and tender texture. By using high-quality chocolate, the ganache filling achieves a silky smoothness that complements the cake perfectly. This recipe balances sweetness and richness, resulting in a dessert that feels indulgent but not overwhelming.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, use high-quality chocolate and ensure your ingredients are at room temperature. When rolling the cake, do so gently to avoid cracks. If you find it difficult to roll, try warming the cake slightly in the microwave for a few seconds to make it more pliable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can make the Festive Chocolate Log Dessert a day in advance. After rolling the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to garnish with fresh berries before serving for a vibrant presentation.

If you're looking for a substitute for heavy cream, you can use coconut cream or a mixture of milk and butter. For a lighter option, half-and-half can also work, but it may not give the same richness to the ganache. Adjust the sweetness as needed when using alternative creams.

The cake is done when it springs back lightly to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the cake. It should be soft and pliable for rolling.

Yes, you can freeze the Festive Chocolate Log Dessert. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before garnishing and slicing.

This dessert pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries add a tart contrast that balances the richness of the chocolate. Pairing it with a hot beverage like coffee or spiced tea also enhances the experience.

In the refrigerator, the Festive Chocolate Log Dessert lasts for about 3-4 days. Make sure to keep it covered to maintain freshness. If you notice any moisture, it's best to consume it sooner to enjoy its optimal flavor and texture.

Absolutely! You can prepare the Festive Chocolate Log Dessert up to a day in advance. After you roll it, simply wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to develop, resulting in a more delicious dessert. Just add your toppings before serving.

If you prefer your dessert warm, the best way to reheat it is by placing it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as it can make the chocolate too soft. You can also place it in a warm oven for a few minutes for a gentle heat.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If the cake turns out dry, it may have been overbaked.

Solution: To avoid dryness, keep an eye on the baking time and test for doneness early. You can also enhance moisture by adding a simple syrup during assembly.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the exterior of the log is too soft, it may be due to insufficient baking.

Solution: Ensure the cake is baked fully and allow it to cool completely before filling. A light dusting of cocoa powder can also help with texture.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the cake is overcooked, it may become tough and chewy.

Prevention: To prevent this, always use an oven thermometer to check your baking temperature and reduce the baking time if necessary.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the cake remains gooey, it indicates it was underbaked.

Recovery: Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional few minutes until done. Ensure your oven temperature is accurate.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can occur if the oven temperature is too high.

Prevention: Use an oven thermometer and adjust the temperature down if needed. Cover the cake with foil towards the end of baking to prevent burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dessert is too sweet, add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If it's too salty, consider adding a bit more sugar to the filling to balance.

Bland: To enhance flavors, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a teaspoon of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate taste.

Fresh ingredients for Festive Chocolate Log Dessert

Essential Ingredients for Festive Chocolate Log Dessert

The key ingredients for the Festive Chocolate Log Dessert include high-quality chocolate and fresh eggs. These elements are crucial for achieving a rich flavor and a fluffy texture. Using quality cocoa powder enhances the chocolatey taste that is essential to this dessert's appeal.

It's important to use fresh ingredients to ensure the best results. Using room temperature eggs aids in the batter's aeration, while fresh cream contributes to a smooth ganache texture. Always opt for premium ingredients to elevate your dessert.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Dark Chocolate: Choose a high cocoa percentage dark chocolate for a more intense flavor. The higher quality chocolate you use, the better the ganache will taste. Look for chocolate with at least 70% cocoa solids for the richest experience.
  • Eggs: Using fresh eggs at room temperature helps in beating them to a better volume. This results in a lighter cake, which is key for a successful roll. Always crack your eggs individually and check for freshness.
  • Heavy Cream: Opt for heavy cream with a high fat content for the ganache. This will ensure a rich and creamy consistency. Avoid low-fat creams as they won't provide the same texture or flavor depth.
Cooking process for Festive Chocolate Log Dessert

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for the Festive Chocolate Log Dessert involves several key steps that ensure success. Starting with mixing the batter, it's important to combine dry and wet ingredients without over-mixing. Once baked, the rolling technique is crucial to avoid cracking.

Achieving perfect results requires attention to detail. Allow the cake to cool completely before rolling, as this helps maintain its structure. The ganache filling should be smooth and spreadable, allowing for an even distribution that enhances flavor.

Key Technique for Perfect Festive Chocolate Log Dessert

The most important technique for creating the perfect Festive Chocolate Log Dessert is mastering the rolling process. Ensuring that the cake is soft and pliable while rolling minimizes the risk of cracks. Using a clean towel to assist in the rolling helps maintain the shape and adds a professional touch.

Festive Chocolate Log Dessert

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup heavy cream
    For the ganache filling
  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips
    Melted for ganache
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
    For sweetness
  • 1/4 cup milk
    To thin ganache if needed

For the Sauce

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    For the cake
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
    For sweetness
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    For chocolate flavor
  • 4 large eggs
    Room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    For flavor
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    To balance sweetness

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Whisk until well combined.

  3. Beat Eggs

    In another bowl, beat the eggs and vanilla extract until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.

  4. Combine Mixtures

    Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined.

  5. Spread Batter

    Spread the batter evenly onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.

  6. Cool the Cake

    Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Dust with cocoa powder and invert onto a clean towel.

  7. Make the Filling

    In a saucepan, heat the cream and dark chocolate chips until melted. Stir in powdered sugar and espresso powder until smooth.

  8. Roll the Cake

    Spread the filling over the cooled cake, then carefully roll the cake into a log shape using the towel.

  9. Chill and Serve

    Chill the rolled log in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving. Garnish with berries and mint.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store the Festive Chocolate Log Dessert, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to two months.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Festive Chocolate Log Dessert with a side of whipped cream and fresh berries. A dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a festive touch, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.

Recipe Variations

You can customize the Festive Chocolate Log Dessert by incorporating different flavors into the filling, such as orange zest or peppermint extract. For a nutty twist, consider adding crushed nuts into the filling or on top as a garnish.