Chocolate, Cherry, and Brandy Yule Log – A Festive Marvel!

When it comes to showstopping holiday desserts, the Chocolate, Cherry, and Brandy Yule Log stands in a class of its own. With its layers of light chocolate sponge, sweet cherry jam, boozy brandy cream, and rich chocolate icing, this dessert is as elegant as it is indulgent. Topped with handmade chocolate bark for a dazzling finish, it’s the perfect centerpiece for your Christmas table.

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Every bite is a celebration of festive flavors and textures! Want to make your holidays even more delicious? Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for quick, easy, and mouthwatering recipes delivered straight to your inbox!

Why You’ll Love This Yule Log

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate, cherries, and brandy is utterly divine.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: Decorated with chocolate bark and a snowy dusting of icing sugar, it’s a showstopper for any holiday gathering.
• Versatile Layers: Adjust the jam, cream, or even the chocolate bark to make it your own!
• Festive Charm: This dessert screams Christmas and will wow your family and friends.

Looking for more festive treats? Try our Chocolate Caramel Christmas Crack, Mini Fruit Cakes, or Coffee and Fig Fruit Cakes.

Ingredients

Cake

• Cooking oil spray, for greasing
• 3 eggs, separated
• ½ cup raw caster sugar
• ⅓ cup plain flour
• 2 Tbsp cocoa powder
• 1 Tbsp cornflour
• Extra 1 Tbsp raw caster sugar, for dusting
• ½ cup dark cherry jam
• Icing sugar mixture, for dusting

Chocolate Bark

• 150g dark chocolate melts, melted

Chocolate Icing

• ¼ cup thickened cream
• 125g dark chocolate melts
• 75g unsalted butter, chopped
• ¼ cup icing sugar mixture
• 1 Tbsp cocoa

Brandy Cream Filling

• ⅔ cup thickened cream
• 1 Tbsp icing sugar mixture
• 1 Tbsp brandy

Necessary Tools

• Electric mixer
• 32 x 24cm Swiss roll tin
• Baking paper
• Small saucepan

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Cake :Preheat oven to 190°C. Grease a 32 x 24cm Swiss roll tin and line with baking paper.

Make the Batter : Whisk egg yolks and 2 Tbsp caster sugar until pale. In another bowl, whisk egg whites to stiff peaks, gradually adding the remaining sugar until glossy. Fold egg whites into yolks in three batches.

Add Dry Ingredients : Sift flour, cocoa, and cornflour over the mixture and fold gently. Spread batter into the tin and smooth the surface.

Bake and Roll : Bake for 8 minutes until springy. Turn out onto sugared baking paper, crust-side down. Roll up tightly and cool.

Make the Chocolate Bark : Line the tin with baking paper, spread melted chocolate evenly, and set for 30 minutes. Break into shards.

Prepare the Icing : Melt cream, chocolate, and butter over low heat. Chill 15 minutes, then whisk with icing sugar and cocoa until fluffy.

Whip the Brandy Cream : Beat cream, icing sugar, and brandy until stiff peaks form.

Assemble the Yule Log : Unroll the cake. Spread jam, then cream. Re-roll and place on a platter. Cover with icing, decorate with chocolate bark, and dust with icing sugar.

What to Serve with Your Yule Log

This Yule Log pairs beautifully with a festive glass of eggnog or a mug of hot chocolate. Add some fresh cherries on the side for a bright, fruity contrast.

Tips for Success

• Rolling the Cake: Roll the sponge while it’s still warm to prevent cracking.
• Perfect Bark: Use a palette knife to spread the melted chocolate thinly for a delicate bark texture.
• Customizing the Flavor: Swap the brandy for rum or a splash of vanilla extract if preferred.

Storage Instructions

Store the Yule Log in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to soften the icing and cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Yule Log ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the cake and bark a day ahead, then assemble just before serving for maximum freshness.

What can I use instead of brandy?
Try rum, orange liqueur, or even a non-alcoholic vanilla essence.

Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled Yule Log without the bark. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before adding the chocolate bark.

Conclusion

The Chocolate, Cherry, and Brandy Yule Log is everything a holiday dessert should be: festive, flavorful, and a feast for the eyes. With its decadent layers and stunning decoration, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

If you loved this recipe, check out more festive treats like our Chocolate Caramel Christmas Crack, Mini Fruit Cakes, or Coffee and Fig Fruit Cakes.

Don’t forget to pin this recipe to your holiday dessert board on Pinterest and share your creations with us! We can’t wait to see your Yule Logs in all their glory.

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