Christmas log cake

Christmas Log: a traditional dessert full of charm

Christmas is a magical time, filled with traditions and joys, and one of the most delicious ways to celebrate is with an iconic dessert: the Christmas Log. This cake, resembling a log, is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a true culinary work of art. The rolled cake filled with a fragrant coffee cream and covered with a decadent chocolate whiskey ganache will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Let's explore this recipe together step by step.

Preparation time:
- Total time: 70 minutes
- Preparation time: 50 minutes
- Baking time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 12

Necessary ingredients:

*For the roll:*
- 6 small eggs (preferably at room temperature)
- 5 g baking powder (Dr. Oetker)
- 6 tablespoons oil (sunflower oil is ideal)
- 150 g flour
- 100 ml freshly squeezed orange juice
- A pinch of salt (to stabilize the egg whites)

*For the filling:*
- 100 g dark chocolate (with at least 70% cocoa content for an intense flavor)
- 270 ml liquid cream (try to choose a cream with a high-fat content)
- 1 packet of instant coffee (optional, for a stronger coffee flavor)
- 4 tablespoons brewed coffee (preferably espresso, for a stronger taste)
- 20 ml whiskey (a quality whiskey will add depth to the flavor)
- 250 g mascarpone cheese (make sure it's at room temperature)

*For decoration:*
- Powdered sugar with rum flavor (Dr. Oetker), to taste
- Cocoa powder (for a rustic look)
- Colorful sprinkles (for a touch of cheer)
- 3 basil leaves (for a note of freshness)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the roll:
- Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (medium heat).
- Separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until you get a firm meringue. This means that when you turn the bowl upside down, the meringue should not fall out.
- Add the yolks, oil, and orange juice to the bowl with the egg whites, gently mixing with the mixer. Finally, fold in the baking powder and flour, mixing with a spatula to avoid losing air from the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a baking tray lined with parchment paper and level it. Bake for about 20 minutes or until it turns lightly golden.

2. Cooling the roll:
- Once baked, remove the roll from the oven and quickly dust it with powdered sugar on a clean kitchen towel. Carefully turn the roll out, remove the parchment paper, and dust it again. Roll the hot roll using the towel to shape it. Let it cool completely.

3. The creams:
- For the filling: Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or fondue pot. Let it cool until warm. Meanwhile, whip the liquid cream until soft (do not overwhip).
- In another bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with the mixer, then add 120 g of the whipped cream, 2 tablespoons of the melted chocolate, 4 tablespoons of brewed coffee, and the instant coffee. Mix until you get a smooth and fluffy cream.

4. Preparing the ganache:
- In a bowl, add 4 tablespoons of the remaining cream over the melted chocolate, mixing well. Then, incorporate the chocolate mixture into the remaining cream, beating it with the mixer until creamy.

5. Assembling and decorating:
- Once the roll has cooled completely, carefully unroll it. Spread the coffee cream evenly over the entire surface, then roll it up again using the towel. Cut a piece from the roll and place it on a platter to give it the shape of a log.
- Coat the roll with the whiskey ganache, using a spatula to create a texture similar to wood. Decorate as inspired, using cocoa powder, sprinkles, and basil leaves for a splash of color.

Practical tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a uniform texture.
- You can replace the whiskey with rum or a coffee syrup for an alcohol-free version.
- If you want a sweeter note, add more powdered sugar to the chocolate cream.

Nutritional information:
This Christmas log contains approximately 300 calories per serving, making it a good choice for a special occasion. The mascarpone cream provides a protein boost, and dark chocolate contains beneficial antioxidants for health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of chocolate? Yes, you can experiment with milk chocolate for a sweeter taste.
- How can I store the dessert? It keeps well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 2-3 days.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? Unfortunately, this recipe contains eggs and dairy, but you can look for vegan alternatives for the creams.

In the end, don't forget to enjoy this wonderful dessert with your loved ones and share the special moments created around the table. Enjoy and Merry Christmas!