Description
The Chocolate Marquise Yule Log is a luxurious dessert combining rich chocolate marquise with the beauty of a traditional Yule log. It features a mousse-like filling wrapped in a fluffy sponge, all coated with a glossy chocolate ganache, creating an indulgent and festive treat for special occasions.
Ingredients
- For the Chocolate Marquise Filling:
- 6 oz (170g) dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) rum (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Sponge Cake:
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (30g) cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 8 oz (225g) dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Marquise Filling: Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until light and fluffy. Slowly pour in the hot cream while whisking constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a custard-like consistency. Remove from heat.
- Stir in the melted chocolate, vanilla extract, and rum (if using). Let this mixture cool to room temperature and then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
- Make the Sponge Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks and sugar together until thick and pale. Add the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold the egg whites into the egg yolk mixture until just combined.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, being careful not to deflate the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, immediately invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Remove the parchment paper and roll the cake tightly in the towel. Let it cool completely.
- Assemble the Yule Log: Once the sponge cake has cooled, unroll it carefully and spread the chilled chocolate marquise filling evenly over the surface.
- Gently re-roll the cake, ensuring the filling is enclosed, and place it seam side down on a serving platter.
- Prepare the Ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate and butter. Stir until smooth and glossy.
- Pour the ganache over the rolled Yule log, spreading it with a spatula to cover the entire cake.
- Serve: Once the ganache has set, decorate the Yule log with powdered sugar, fresh berries, or edible gold leaf for a festive touch.
- Slice and serve the chocolate marquise Yule log, allowing guests to enjoy its rich and indulgent layers.
Notes
Storage: Store the Yule log in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If storing longer, it’s best to freeze the cake before adding the ganache.Reheating: Serve the Yule log chilled, or let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving if you prefer it slightly warmer.Variations: Add orange zest, coffee liqueur, or espresso to the marquise filling for extra flavor. For a nutty topping, consider adding crushed hazelnuts or pistachios.Vegan: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and milk for a vegan version.If you prefer milk chocolate, you can substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate for a sweeter taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg