Christmas Stump Cake

Christmas Log Cake

Happy New Year, dear passionate cooks! Today I invite you to experience a special recipe, full of flavor and story: the Christmas Log Cake. This dessert is not just a simple culinary pleasure, but a true gem that brings joy to everyone’s hearts. With a delicate sponge, filled with fine chocolate cream and fresh berries, this recipe will delight both you and your loved ones.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 10

Ingredients

For the sponge:
- 8 eggs (at room temperature)
- 8 tablespoons of sugar
- 8 tablespoons of flour
- ½ teaspoon lemon essence
- A pinch of salt

For the chocolate cream:
- 300 ml milk
- 8 tablespoons sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 rum essence
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- 1 caramel cream chocolate (100 g)
- 100 g butter

For decoration and filling:
- Berries (raspberries, blackberries, blueberries)
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)

Brief history

The Christmas Log Cake is a traditional recipe that symbolizes the warmth and joy of the winter holidays. This delicacy has gained popularity worldwide, often served at festive meals. Its rustic appearance, resembling a piece of wood, evokes winter memories, and each slice is an explosion of flavors and textures that brings us together.

Step by step

1. Preparing the chocolate cream

Start by preparing the cream so that it has time to cool and set. In a saucepan, add:
- 300 ml milk
- 8 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 rum essence

Stir with a spoon for a few seconds, then place the saucepan over medium heat. When the milk starts to boil, add:
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa
- 4 tablespoons of flour

Whisk vigorously to ensure there are no lumps. Let it cook for a few minutes, stirring continuously, until you achieve a pudding-like consistency. Finally, add the caramel cream chocolate and let it cook for another 2 minutes. Once done, let the cream cool completely in a cool place.

2. Preparing the sponge

While the cream cools, you can prepare the sponge. Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy and airy roll.

In another bowl, cream the yolks with:
- 8 tablespoons of sugar

Mix until it becomes a light-colored cream. Then, carefully add the beaten egg whites and gently fold in to avoid losing air in the mixture. Continue to gradually incorporate:
- 8 tablespoons of flour
- ½ teaspoon lemon essence

Mix well, then prepare a 32 x 35 cm baking tray by lining it with parchment paper. Pour the roll mixture into the tray and level it evenly.

3. Baking the sponge

Preheat the oven to low heat and place the tray inside. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 10 minutes of baking. After about 15 minutes, the sponge should be lightly browned on the bottom and fluffy. Check with a toothpick: if it comes out clean, it’s ready! Remove the sponge from the oven and carefully peel it off the parchment paper. Place it on a clean, slightly damp towel and roll it up carefully, allowing it to cool in this shape for a few minutes.

4. Assembling the cake

Once the sponge has cooled, carefully unroll it. Evenly spread about ¾ of the chocolate cream and add the berries. Roll the sponge back up, gently pressing to secure it. Use a wet knife to cut the roll so that it doesn’t stick to the cream.

5. Decorating the cake

Shape the log from the rolled sponge. Use the remaining edges to create hollows. Cover the roll (log) with the remaining cream, ensuring all imperfections are hidden. Leave the end of the log uncovered for a rustic look. Decorate with berries and sprinkle powdered sugar to mimic snowfall. If you have patience, experiment with various decorating techniques to add a touch of holiday magic.

Useful tips

- Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for better egg white foam.
- For added flavor, add a few drops of vanilla essence to the chocolate cream.
- If you want to make the cake even more special, you can add ground nuts or almonds to the sponge mixture.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of chocolate?
Of course! You can experiment with dark or white chocolate, depending on your preferences.

2. What type of fruits can I use for decoration?
Berries are excellent, but you can also use other fruits like kiwi or banana slices for a colorful look.

3. Can I prepare the cake in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cake a day ahead and keep it in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap.

Delicious combinations

The Christmas Log Cake pairs perfectly with a cup of hot tea or a glass of spiced mulled wine. Additionally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside a slice of cake will transform the dessert into a true delicacy.

Nutritional benefits

This cake offers a combination of carbohydrates and proteins from the eggs, making it a good source of energy. The berries add vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy lifestyle, even during the holidays.

I hope you find this recipe captivating and easy to follow. Cooking is an art, and each slice of Christmas Log Cake will bring joy to your homes. Happy New Year and enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: For the roll cake base: 8 eggs, 8 tablespoons of sugar, 8 tablespoons of flour, 1/2 teaspoon of lemon essence, a pinch of salt; For the chocolate cream: 300 ml of milk, 8 tablespoons of sugar, 1 vanilla sugar, 1 rum essence, 4 tablespoons of flour, 2 tablespoons of cocoa, 1 caramel cream chocolate (100 g), 100 g of butter; For decoration + filling: berries, powdered sugar.

 Tags:  chocolate roll