Winter Warmer Log Dessert (Print Version)

A festive board featuring a rich chocolate roulade surrounded by seasonal treats and warming flavors.

# Components:

→ Chocolate Roulade

01 - 4 large eggs, separated
02 - 1/2 cup plus 2 tbsp granulated sugar
03 - 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
04 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
05 - 1/4 tsp salt

→ Filling & Topping

06 - 3/4 cup plus 1 tbsp heavy cream
07 - 2 tbsp powdered sugar
08 - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
09 - 3.5 oz dark chocolate, melted
10 - Icing sugar, for dusting

→ Accompaniments

11 - 5 oz gingerbread cookies
12 - 4.2 oz candied orange slices
13 - 3.5 oz roasted chestnuts, peeled
14 - 3.5 oz chocolate truffles
15 - 1 small bunch red grapes
16 - 2.8 oz dried figs, halved
17 - 1.4 oz sugared cranberries (optional)
18 - Sprigs of fresh rosemary, for garnish

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
02 - Beat egg yolks with half the sugar until pale and thick. Sift in cocoa powder and add vanilla extract; blend thoroughly.
03 - Beat egg whites with salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add remaining sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
04 - Gently fold egg whites into yolk mixture in three additions until just combined to retain airiness.
05 - Spread batter evenly in prepared pan and bake 12 to 15 minutes until the surface is springy to the touch.
06 - Invert the warm cake onto a cocoa-dusted kitchen towel. Remove parchment and roll the cake with the towel from the short edge. Allow to cool completely.
07 - Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract to soft peaks.
08 - Unroll the cooled cake, spread with whipped cream, then gently re-roll without the towel. Place seam-side down.
09 - Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the log and dust lightly with icing sugar to evoke a snowy effect.
10 - Arrange roulade on a large serving board. Artfully add gingerbread cookies, candied orange slices, chestnuts, chocolate truffles, grapes, figs, and sugared cranberries. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs.
11 - Serve immediately or chill until ready to enjoy.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Festive and rich chocolate roulade
  • Assorted seasonal treats perfect for sharing
02 -
  • For a nut-free version omit chestnuts and check truffle ingredients
  • Add a bowl of spiced hot chocolate or mulled wine for extra warmth
03 -
  • Swap figs for dried apricots or dates as desired
  • Leftover roulade can be refrigerated for up to 2 days
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