Chocolate, Cherry, and Brandy Yule Log: A Decadent Holiday Delight

When it comes to festive desserts, few can rival the charm and indulgence of a yule log. The classic combination of a soft chocolate sponge rolled with layers of sweet cherry jam, luscious brandy-infused cream, and a decadent chocolate icing makes every bite a celebration. Topped with shards of chocolate bark and a dusting of powdered sugar, this Chocolate, Cherry, and Brandy Yule Log is as delightful to admire as it is to savor. It’s a showstopper on any holiday table, bringing a mix of elegance and nostalgia that captures the magic of Christmas. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice looking for a rewarding project, this recipe is your ticket to a dessert that delivers not only on flavor but also on festive cheer. The process of creating this masterpiece—baking the sponge, preparing the cream, and decorating it with chocolate shards—is a joy in itself, making it perfect for those who love to celebrate the holidays through food.

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The beauty of a yule log lies not just in its flavors but also in the story it tells. Originally inspired by the ancient tradition of burning a yule log during winter solstice celebrations, this dessert carries a symbolic warmth that resonates with the holiday spirit. Over the years, it has transformed into a beloved Christmas classic, with bakers worldwide adding their unique twists to the recipe. This particular version elevates the traditional chocolate log with the addition of tart cherry jam and brandy-infused cream, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that is both indulgent and festive. Each element of the recipe has been carefully crafted to bring out the best in the others, resulting in a dessert that is truly greater than the sum of its parts.

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 powder

Brandy Cream Filling

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

Step-by-Step Method

1. Baking the Cake Base
Preheat your oven to 190°C. Grease a 32 x 24cm Swiss roll tin with cooking oil spray and line the base and sides with baking paper. The key to a perfect sponge cake is aeration, which begins with separating the eggs. Place the yolks in one bowl and the whites in another. Beat the yolks with 2 tablespoons of caster sugar until pale and creamy—this will create a rich, stable base for the batter. In a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Gradually add the remaining sugar to the whites, beating until glossy and firm. This process ensures the cake has the lift it needs to roll easily without cracking.

Gently fold the whipped whites into the yolk mixture in three batches, using a light hand to preserve the airiness. Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and cornflour over the egg mixture and fold again until just combined. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared tin, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Bake for 8 minutes or until the sponge is springy to the touch and has a light, even color.

2. Preparing the Roll
While the cake bakes, prepare a large sheet of baking paper and sprinkle it generously with the extra caster sugar. This step is essential to prevent the cake from sticking and to add a subtle sweetness to the crust. When the cake is done, turn it out onto the sugared paper, crust-side down. Let it cool for about 2 minutes, then roll it up gently from one long side, using the sugared paper as a guide. Rolling the cake while it’s still warm helps set its shape, making it easier to fill and re-roll later. Allow the rolled cake to cool completely to room temperature.

3. Crafting the Chocolate Bark
Creating the chocolate bark is one of the most enjoyable parts of this recipe. It not only adds texture but also elevates the visual appeal of the yule log. Wash and reuse the Swiss roll tin, greasing it lightly and lining it with baking paper. Melt the chocolate melts in a microwave or over a double boiler until smooth. Spread the melted chocolate evenly into the prepared tin, ensuring an even thickness. Let it set at room temperature for about 30 minutes until firm. Once hardened, break the chocolate into rustic shards that mimic the texture of tree bark. These shards will add a professional finish to your dessert.

4. Making the Chocolate Icing
The chocolate icing is the crowning glory of this yule log, tying together all the flavors with its rich, velvety texture. Combine the cream, chocolate melts, and butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and glossy, taking care not to let it boil. Transfer the icing to a bowl and refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow it to thicken slightly. Once cooled, add the icing sugar and cocoa powder, then beat with an electric mixer until the icing is thick and fluffy. This step ensures the icing has a spreadable consistency that holds its shape.

5. Whipping the Brandy Cream
The brandy cream filling is where this yule log truly shines. It adds a layer of sophistication and depth that sets it apart from other holiday desserts. In a mixing bowl, combine the thickened cream, icing sugar, and brandy. Beat the mixture until it forms firm peaks, ensuring it’s stable enough to hold its shape when spread over the sponge. For those who prefer an alcohol-free version, vanilla extract or cherry juice makes an excellent substitute.

6. Assembling the Yule Log
Carefully unroll the cooled cake, taking care not to crack it. Spread an even layer of dark cherry jam across the surface, allowing its tartness to balance the sweetness of the other components. Follow with a layer of the whipped brandy cream, using a spatula to smooth it out evenly. Gently re-roll the cake, using the baking paper to guide the process. Transfer the rolled cake to a serving platter and spread the chocolate icing generously over its surface, creating a textured finish that resembles tree bark. Decorate with the chocolate shards, arranging them artfully to enhance the natural, rustic look. Dust with icing sugar for a snowy, festive touch.

The Experience: Taste, Texture, and Aroma

The Chocolate, Cherry, and Brandy Yule Log offers a sensory experience that is truly unforgettable. The sponge cake is light yet moist, with a subtle chocolate flavor that serves as the perfect canvas for the other components. The tartness of the cherry jam provides a delightful contrast to the rich, velvety brandy cream, while the chocolate icing ties everything together with its decadent depth. The chocolate bark adds a satisfying crunch, complementing the soft, creamy layers within.

As you slice into the log, the beautiful swirl of chocolate sponge, cream, and jam reveals itself, inviting you to take a bite. The aroma is equally enchanting, with the warm scent of dark chocolate mingling with the fruity notes of cherry and the subtle warmth of brandy. It’s a dessert that engages all the senses, making every bite a celebration of flavor and texture.

Tips for Success and Variations

• Ingredient Substitutions: For a non-alcoholic version, replace the brandy with vanilla extract or cherry juice. You can also experiment with different jams, such as raspberry or apricot, for a unique twist on the classic flavor profile.
• Decorative Touches: Enhance the presentation by adding edible gold leaf, sugared cranberries, or sprigs of rosemary for a festive look. These simple additions can elevate the yule log into a centerpiece-worthy dessert.
• Flavor Enhancements: Add finely chopped candied cherries or dark chocolate chips to the brandy cream for extra texture and bursts of flavor.
• Texture Variations: Sprinkle chopped toasted nuts, such as almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios, over the jam layer for a delightful crunch.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair with a warm beverage like mulled wine, spiced cider, or hot chocolate for the ultimate holiday indulgence.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

This yule log is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of the holiday spirit. The combination of chocolate, cherry, and brandy creates a flavor profile that is both indulgent and festive, while the rustic appearance of the log adds a touch of charm to any table. It’s a dessert that brings people together, creating moments of joy and connection.

Whether you’re serving it as the grand finale to a Christmas feast or enjoying it with loved ones over coffee, this Chocolate, Cherry, and Brandy Yule Log is a recipe worth cherishing. The process of making it—from whipping the eggs to crafting the chocolate bark—is as rewarding as the end result, making it a must-try for home bakers and dessert enthusiasts alike.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the magic of the season inspire you to create this delightful dessert. It’s a tradition that’s sure to bring sweetness and joy to your holiday celebrations for years to come.