Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Cake Preparation
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Beat eggs and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, then gently fold in flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and vanilla extract until just combined.
- Pour the batter onto a parchment-lined 10x15 inch jelly roll pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Rolling and Cooling
- Immediately invert the warm cake onto a clean, powdered sugar-dusted kitchen towel and carefully peel off the parchment paper. Starting from a short side, roll the cake tightly with the towel inside and let it cool completely in this rolled position.
Filling
- In a cold bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Assembly
- Once the cake is completely cooled, gently unroll it. Spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the cake, leaving a small border, then carefully re-roll the cake.
Frosting and Decoration
- Beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, alternating with milk/cream, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Frost the entire log cake with the chocolate buttercream. Use a fork to create a wood-grain effect and decorate with desired festive garnishes like meringue mushrooms or cranberries.
Notes
For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of instant espresso powder to either the cake batter or the frosting.
