Yule log

                              Yule log

Also known as a "buche de Noel," this festive cake is made with a sponge cake roll filled with buttercream and decorated to look like a log.

Here is a recipe for making a traditional Yule log cake, or buche de Noel:

For the sponge cake:

• 4 eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the buttercream filling:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the chocolate ganache:

• 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream

To make the sponge cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 10x15 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, mixing until well combined. If using, stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake the cake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, gently roll it up in the parchment paper and let it cool completely.

To make the buttercream filling:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined.
3. Add the milk and vanilla extract, and beat the mixture until smooth and creamy.

To assemble the Yule log:

1. Carefully unroll the cooled sponge cake. Spread a layer of buttercream filling over the top of the cake.
2. Roll the cake back up, without the parchment paper.
3. Transfer the Yule log to a serving plate, seam side down.
4. Using a sharp knife, cut a small slice off one end of the Yule log at an angle to create a "branch."
5. Cover the Yule log with the remaining buttercream, using a spatula to create a rough, bark-like texture.

To make the chocolate ganache:

1. Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just comes to a boil.
3. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes.
4. Stir the mixture until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth.
5. Let the ganache cool slightly until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.
6. Spread the ganache over the top and sides of the Yule log, using a spatula to create a rough, bark-like texture.
7. Arrange a few twigs or small branches on top of the Yule log to create a woodsy look.

Enjoy your festive Yule log cake!