As I stood in my kitchen watching the first snowflakes dance outside my window, the need for a warm and comforting dessert struck me like a festive jingle. That’s when I remembered the joy of creating a decadent Christmas Log, a holiday classic that’s as delightful to make as it is to share. With its rich chocolate flavor and fluffy whipped cream filling, this rolled cake is sure to spark joy in every gathering—turning even the most ordinary afternoon into a sweet celebration.
While it may look fancy, I assure you, all it takes is a little time and some basic ingredients you likely have on hand. Plus, with the option to adorn it with adorable marzipan mushrooms, this dessert becomes an edible centerpiece that will impress your family and friends. Let me walk you through this delightful journey of flavors, where every bite brings the warmth of the holiday spirit to your table!
Why choose this Christmas Log recipe?
Festive Finesse: The Christmas Log not only looks stunning, but it’s also simple to create, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
Decadent Chocolate: Rich cocoa and creamy ganache together create a flavor that’s deeply indulgent—ideal for holiday gatherings.
Flexible Design: Customize your log with festive decorations like marzipan mushrooms or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a charming touch!
Crowd-Pleaser: This dessert serves 10, making it an excellent choice for entertaining or joyful family meals.
Quick and Easy: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, your delicious masterpiece can be ready when those holiday cravings hit!
Elevate your seasonal to-do list by trying this delightful treat, and check out other festive delights for inspiration!
Christmas Log Ingredients
• Get ready to create magic with these delicious components of the Christmas Log!
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – standard flour for a perfect cake base
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder – use high-quality cocoa for a rich chocolate flavor
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – ensures a light and fluffy texture
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – balances sweetness for a deeper taste
- 3 large eggs – room temperature eggs whip up better
- 1 cup granulated sugar – adds sweetness and helps with moisture
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances overall flavor profile
- 1 cup heavy cream – for whipping; the higher the fat content, the better
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar – sweetens whipped cream perfectly
- Chocolate ganache – for the luscious frosting; store-bought works too
- Marzipan mushrooms and decorations (optional) – whimsical touch for festive flair
Gather these ingredients for your Christmas Log, and prepare to delight your loved ones with this enchanting dessert!
How to Make Christmas Log
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cake will release easily later on!
Combine in a bowl: 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix well to incorporate all the dry ingredients!
Whisk together in another bowl: 3 large eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and thick, about 3-4 minutes. This step creates a light texture!
Fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep that airy volume!
Spread the batter evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to create a smooth layer, avoiding any lumps that can lead to uneven baking.
Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cake is set and springs back when touched lightly. You’ll know it’s ready by its lovely, puffed-up appearance!
Cool the cake completely on a wire rack after removing it from the oven. Patience is key, as rolling it while warm will lead to cracking.
Whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until fluffy and soft peaks form. This luscious filling adds a delightful surprise in every slice!
Spread the whipped cream generously over the cooled cake, leaving a small border around the edges. Then, roll the cake up tightly from one end, creating a lovely log shape.
Frost the rolled cake with chocolate ganache, smoothing it out with a spatula for an elegant finish. Finish off with marzipan mushrooms and decorations for a festive touch!
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for an extra snowy effect!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Christmas Log Variations
Get creative and make this Christmas Log your very own with these fun twists and substitutions!
Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for an equally delightful log that everyone can enjoy.
Vegan: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg), almond milk for cream, and aquafaba for fluffy whipped topping.
Nutty Indulgence: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts, like hazelnuts or walnuts, to the batter for a delicious crunch and extra flavor.
Minty Surprise: Mix in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the whipped cream for a refreshing holiday twist that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
Fruit-Filled: Spread a layer of raspberry or cherry preserves under the whipped cream for a fruity burst that complements the richness of chocolate.
Mocha Magic: Add 2 tablespoons of finely brewed coffee to the egg and sugar mixture for an extra depth of flavor that coffee lovers will adore.
Spice It Up: Stir in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm spice that evokes the spirit of the season.
Citrus Zing: Grate the zest of one orange or lemon into the batter for a bright and zesty contrast that brightens the chocolatey richness.
Customizing your Christmas Log is not only fun, but it can help ensure that everyone at the table finds something they absolutely love!
What to Serve with Christmas Log?
Imagine gathering around the table with loved ones during the holiday season, ready to indulge in delightful treats that elevate your festive spirit.
Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of cocoa pairs beautifully, enhancing the chocolatey flavors in the log while keeping everyone cozy.
Fresh Berries: Serve a side of juicy raspberries or strawberries for a bright, tart contrast, cutting through the sweetness of the cake.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream adds a silky texture and balance that complements the rich ganache beautifully with every bite.
Peppermint Bark: This festive treat provides a crunchy, minty element that adds holiday cheer and pairs wonderfully with the chocolate log.
Whipped Cream Topping: A light, fluffy dollop alongside each slice is a classic pairing, enhancing the cake’s luxurious feel and taste.
Spiced Mulled Wine: This warm beverage fills the air with holiday scents and a hint of spice, perfectly complementing the dessert’s decadent flavors.
Bringing these elements together turns your dessert into a full holiday experience—capturing the joy and warmth of the season to share with your loved ones!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Log
Fridge: Store any leftover Christmas Log in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the cake moist and the whipped cream fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the entire log tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: Although this dessert is best served chilled or at room temperature, you can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if desired.
Serving: When ready to enjoy your Christmas Log, garnish it with fresh whipped cream or additional chocolate sprinkles to enhance its festive appeal!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Log delights are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can bake the cake and roll it up up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator to keep it moist. To maintain its quality, wrap the rolled cake tightly in plastic wrap after it’s completely cool, which prevents it from drying out. Additionally, you can whip the cream and hold it in the fridge for the same timeframe. When ready to serve, simply slather on the chocolate ganache and add your charming marzipan decorations. This way, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to impress with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for the Christmas Log
Room Temperature Eggs: Use eggs at room temperature for better volume when whisked. Cold eggs can make it challenging to incorporate air!
Gentle Folding: When combining the dry ingredients with the egg mixture, fold gently to maintain the airy texture. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.
Completely Cool: Allow the cake to cool completely before rolling; a warm cake is prone to cracking. Use a wire rack for even airflow.
Whipped Cream Perfection: Whip the cream until soft peaks form, but avoid over-whipping, as it can become grainy. A touch of powdered sugar enhances sweetness!
Creative Additions: Feel free to add your favorite flavors or mix-ins to the whipped cream, such as peppermint extract, to give your Christmas Log a unique twist!
Make Ahead: The cake can be baked a day in advance. Just store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator—perfect for reducing stress on the big day!
Christmas Log Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cocoa powder for my Christmas Log?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for high-quality cocoa powder, such as Dutch-processed or natural cocoa. Look for a deep, rich color without lumps. A good cocoa powder should have a robust aroma that hints at the chocolatey goodness you’ll experience!
What’s the best way to store leftovers of the Christmas Log?
Very! Store any leftover Christmas Log in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This protects the cake’s moisture and keeps the whipped cream fresh. If you notice that the whipped cream is starting to liquefy, it’s best to consume it sooner rather than later!
Can I freeze the Christmas Log? How do I do that?
Of course! To freeze your Christmas Log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, allowing it to regain its delightful texture and flavor.
What if my cake cracks when rolling it up?
No worries! If your cake does crack, simply use a bit of extra whipped cream to patch it up. It’s often easier to roll the cake when it’s completely cool and if you have trouble, consider rolling it with parchment paper to help guide it without causing damage.
Are there any allergies I should consider with the Christmas Log?
Absolutely! This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs and dairy. If you’re baking for someone with specific dietary restrictions, think about using egg substitutes like flaxseed meal or commercial egg replacers, and for the cream, coconut cream can be a terrific dairy-free alternative. Always double-check your ingredients for any hidden allergens!
Can I decorate the Christmas Log ahead of time?
Definitely! You can decorate your Christmas Log with chocolate ganache and marzipan mushrooms ahead of time, just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. For extra freshness, consider adding any powdered sugar dusting just before serving to keep that “snowy” look!
Irresistibly Indulgent Christmas Log: Roll into the Holidays!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine in a bowl: 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
- Whisk together in another bowl: 3 large eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar until pale and thick, about 3-4 minutes.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture gently until just combined.
- Spread the batter evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cake is set and springs back when touched lightly.
- Cool the cake completely on a wire rack after removing it from the oven.
- Whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until fluffy and soft peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream generously over the cooled cake, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll the cake up tightly from one end, creating a lovely log shape.
- Frost the rolled cake with chocolate ganache, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Finish with marzipan mushrooms and decorations for a festive touch.