Save A cozy, festive dessert board inspired by a yule log and winter treats, featuring a rich chocolate roulade, assorted seasonal accompaniments, and warming flavors perfect for sharing around the fireplace.
This dessert board always brings warmth and joy to our winter gatherings, making it a family favorite for years.
Ingredients
- Chocolate Roulade (Log Cake): 4 large eggs separated, 120 g (1/2 cup + 2 tbsp) granulated sugar, 40 g (1/3 cup) unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/4 tsp salt
- Filling & Topping: 200 ml (3/4 cup + 1 tbsp) heavy cream, 2 tbsp powdered sugar, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, 100 g (3.5 oz) dark chocolate melted, icing sugar for dusting
- Accompaniments: 150 g (5 oz) gingerbread cookies, 120 g (4.2 oz) candied orange slices, 100 g (3.5 oz) roasted chestnuts peeled, 100 g (3.5 oz) chocolate truffles, 1 small bunch red grapes, 80 g (2.8 oz) dried figs halved, 40 g (1.4 oz) sugared cranberries (optional), sprigs of fresh rosemary for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 180℃ (350℉). Line a 23x33 cm (9x13-inch) jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a mixing bowl, beat egg yolks with half the sugar until pale and thick. Sift in cocoa powder and add vanilla mix well.
- Step 3:
- In another bowl, beat egg whites with salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add remaining sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Step 4:
- Gently fold egg whites into the yolk mixture in thirds until just combined.
- Step 5:
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 12 15 minutes until springy to the touch.
- Step 6:
- While warm, invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with cocoa powder. Peel off parchment and gently roll the cake with the towel from the short end. Let cool completely.
- Step 7:
- Whip the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla to soft peaks. Unroll the cooled cake spread with whipped cream and carefully re-roll.
- Step 8:
- Place seam-side down. Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the log and dust lightly with icing sugar for a snowy effect.
- Step 9:
- Arrange roulade on a large wooden board. Artfully add gingerbread cookies, candied orange slices, chestnuts, truffles, grapes, figs, and sugared cranberries around the log. Garnish with rosemary sprigs for a festive look.
- Step 10:
- Serve immediately or store chilled until ready to enjoy.
Save This recipe creates moments of togetherness as everyone gathers around the dessert board, enjoying the flavors and festive atmosphere.
Required Tools
Electric mixer, jelly roll pan (9x13-inch), mixing bowls, parchment paper, kitchen towel, spatula, serving board
Allergen Information
Contains eggs, dairy, gluten (roulade, cookies, truffles may contain nuts). Some truffles may contain nuts always check labels if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Calories 420, Total Fat 20 g, Carbohydrates 54 g, Protein 6 g (per serving)
Save Enjoy this winter warmer dessert board with loved ones for a festive and memorable treat.
Recipe FAQ
- → How is the chocolate roulade prepared?
The roulade batter is made by combining beaten egg yolks, sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla, then gently folding in stiffly beaten egg whites. It’s baked in a jelly roll pan, cooled, filled with whipped cream, and carefully rolled.
- → What seasonal accompaniments complement the roulade?
Accompaniments include gingerbread cookies, candied orange slices, roasted chestnuts, chocolate truffles, red grapes, dried figs, and sugared cranberries, creating a festive balance of flavors and textures.
- → Can this dish accommodate dietary restrictions?
While vegetarian, it contains eggs, dairy, gluten, and possibly nuts in some truffles. For nut-free options, omit chestnuts and select nut-free truffles. Always check ingredient labels.
- → What is the best way to serve the dessert board?
Arrange the roulade seam-side down on a serving board, drizzle with melted dark chocolate, dust with icing sugar, and artistically place the accompaniments around it. Garnish with rosemary sprigs for a festive touch.
- → How long does preparation and cooking take?
Preparation takes about 35 minutes, with 15 minutes of baking time. Additional cooling is needed before assembly and serving.
- → How can leftovers be stored?
Store any leftover roulade refrigerated for up to two days to maintain freshness and texture.