16 Southern Living Yule Log Recipe Cook Up Something Special!

The Perfect Yule Log

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• Green food coloring
• Confectioners' sugar for dusting
• Extra cocoa powder for dusting

Making the perfect yule log starts with quality ingredients. You want to use fresh, large eggs to ensure a light and fluffy cake. The granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps to create the structure of the cake. Don't skimp on the cocoa powder – use a high-quality brand for the best chocolate flavor. The heavy whipping cream and semisweet chocolate make up the rich and creamy filling, while the unsalted butter adds a touch of richness to the cake. And of course, don't forget the green food coloring for a festive touch!

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat 6 large eggs on high speed until they are light and fluffy.
3. Gradually add in 1 cup of granulated sugar while continuing to beat the eggs.
4. Sift in 1/4 cup of cocoa powder and mix until well combined.
5. Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon of salt, mixing until fully incorporated.
6. In a separate bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder.
7. Gently fold the flour mixture into the egg mixture, being careful not to overmix.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. While the cake is baking, prepare the filling by heating 1 cup of heavy whipping cream in a saucepan over medium heat.
11. Once the cream is hot, remove it from the heat and add in 8 ounces of chopped semisweet chocolate and 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter.
12. Whisk until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
13. Add in a few drops of green food coloring until you reach your desired shade.
14. Once the cake is done baking, immediately turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with confectioners' sugar.
15. Carefully roll the cake up in the towel and let it cool completely.
16. Unroll the cake and spread the chocolate filling evenly over the surface.
17. Roll the cake back up, using the towel to help you as needed.
18. Cut off a small section at an angle from one end of the cake and place it on the side to create a branch.
19. Cover the entire cake with the remaining chocolate filling, using a spatula to create a bark-like texture.
20. Dust with cocoa powder and decorate with powdered sugar and any other festive decorations you desire.
21. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.

And there you have it – a beautiful and delicious Southern Living yule log that is sure to impress your holiday guests. Serve with a cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate winter treat. Happy holidays!