Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Yule Log
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Holiday
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Nutella or hazelnut spread; 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts (toasted)

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The Chocolate Hazelnut Yule Log is a holiday masterpiece that will enchant your senses. Imagine rich chocolate cake rolled around creamy hazelnut filling, adorned with a velvety ganache, and sprinkled with chopped hazelnuts. perfect holiday appetizer This whimsical dessert captures the essence of festive indulgence, making it a must-have at any seasonal celebration. For more inspiration, check out this chocolate marshmallow cookies recipe.

I can still hear my family’s delighted gasps the first time I unveiled this showstopper during our holiday gathering. The Chocolate Hazelnut Yule Log effortlessly transforms any occasion into a festive feast, leaving everyone craving another slice. cozy fall flavors Get ready for an explosion of flavors!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Chocolate Hazelnut Yule Log offers a fun twist on traditional desserts, making it perfect for holiday gatherings
Its rich and nutty flavor profile will leave guests wanting more
Visually stunning, it adds a touch of elegance to any table setting
Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with different fillings or toppings based on personal preferences

A memorable moment was when my cousin, who claims to dislike desserts, took one bite and exclaimed, “Okay, I’ll allow this one.”

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: Choose high-quality flour for the best cake texture; sifting helps achieve a light and airy result.
Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for that deep chocolate flavor that balances perfectly with the sweetness.
Granulated Sugar: Sweeten the batter without overwhelming it; adjust based on your preference for sweetness.
Eggs: Fresh eggs help bind the ingredients together; they also contribute to the cake’s rise and fluffiness.
Butter: Opt for unsalted butter to control the salt level; melted butter adds richness to both cake and filling.
Heavy Cream: Use full-fat cream for a luscious ganache; its richness is essential for that smooth texture.
Nutella or Hazelnut Spread: A generous layer adds that signature nutty flavor; feel free to use any brand you love. unique nutty flavors.
Chopped Hazelnuts: Toasted hazelnuts add crunch and enhance the overall flavor; don’t skip this step!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper. This ensures an easy release after baking.

Mix dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined—this creates an even distribution of flavors.

Beat eggs: In another bowl, beat the eggs together until frothy; this introduces air into your mixture for a light cake texture that melts in your mouth.

Combine wet ingredients: Gently fold in melted butter and vanilla extract until just mixed—be careful not to overmix as we want to preserve that airy quality.

Bake the cake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for about 12-15 minutes until set but still soft—check with a toothpick if necessary.

Roll it up: Once out of the oven, immediately invert onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off parchment paper and roll up tightly while warm—this shapes your log beautifully.

Prepare filling: While cooling slightly, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in Nutella until combined; this creamy filling brings all those decadent flavors together.

Assemble your Yule Log: Unroll your cooled cake carefully and spread nutty filling evenly across before rolling back up tightly again. Trust me; this step is crucial for aesthetic appeal!

Make ganache: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt remaining chocolate with heavy cream until smooth—this glossy finish makes every bite irresistible.

Decorate: Drizzle ganache over your rolled log and sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts on top; slice at an angle for presentation that wows everyone at the table!

Chill before serving: Allow the assembled log to chill in the fridge for about an hour before slicing—it helps set everything nicely so each piece holds its shape.

Enjoy: Slice into portions and watch as friends dive in! Each bite delivers delightfully rich chocolate paired perfectly with crunchy hazelnuts—a true festive treat!

Congratulations! You’ve just made an impressive Chocolate Hazelnut Yule Log that will have everyone raving about your culinary skills this holiday season! savory ginger stir-fry.

You Must Know

This delightful Chocolate Hazelnut Yule Log combines rich chocolate flavors with nutty undertones, creating a festive treat that’s perfect for winter gatherings
Keep it cool to maintain its texture and taste, and watch it disappear in no time at those holiday parties

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the chocolate sponge cake first; while it cools, whip the hazelnut cream. This order saves time and keeps your kitchen tidy.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Consider swapping hazelnuts for almonds or adding a splash of orange zest to the cream for a unique twist on flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store the Yule Log in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Enjoy cold, as reheating may alter its texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To ensure your Yule Log rolls perfectly, leave enough space at the edge when spreading filling
A light dusting of cocoa powder before serving adds elegance
Always let the cake cool completely before rolling to prevent cracks

The first time I made a Chocolate Hazelnut Yule Log, my friends devoured it within minutes! Their smiles were priceless, and I felt like a pastry wizard for one glorious evening.

FAQs

FAQ

What is a Yule Log?

A Yule Log is a traditional dessert shaped like a log, often enjoyed during Christmas celebrations.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare your Yule Log a day or two in advance for optimal flavor and convenience.

How should I decorate my Chocolate Hazelnut Yule Log?

Dust with powdered sugar or add chocolate shavings for a beautiful presentation that impresses guests.