Christmas Yule Log with Nutella® – A Decadent Holiday Delight
Category: Desserts
Servings: 10
As the festive season approaches, this Christmas Yule Log with Nutella® will quickly become the star of your holiday table. Combining the richness of Nutella®, the subtle tang of fresh berries, and the decadent flavor of dark chocolate, this dessert is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the tastebuds. Elegant, yet simple, it’s the perfect showstopper to impress your guests during the holiday season.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Panettone | ½ loaf |
| Dark Chocolate | 200g |
| Nutella® | 150g |
| Fresh Currants | To taste |
| Butter | 10g |
| Granulated Sugar | To taste |
| Meringues | To taste |
| Myrtle (leaves) | To taste |
| Pistachio Flour | To taste |
| Licorice Sticks | To taste |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Chocolate Decoration
-
Start by finely chopping the dark chocolate or, if you prefer, use chocolate chips. Place it into a mixing bowl.
-
On a clean, flat surface, lay a sheet of parchment paper. Pour the chopped chocolate onto the paper and spread it evenly with a spatula, ensuring a thin layer of chocolate.
-
Let the chocolate rest in the fridge for a couple of minutes until it begins to firm up slightly.
-
Once the chocolate has set enough to handle, take a textured spatula (or a fork) and gently score the surface, creating a wood-like grain pattern that resembles the rustic bark of a Yule log.
-
Place the decorated chocolate back into the fridge for another couple of minutes to set fully.
Step 2: Cutting the Chocolate
-
After the chocolate has chilled and hardened slightly, cut it into rectangular pieces that are about 10 cm tall (the height of your panettone) and 4-5 cm wide. The chocolate will still be pliable but firm enough to retain its shape.
-
Return the decorated chocolate rectangles to the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the log.
Step 3: Preparing the Currants
-
For the currants, take a handful of fresh ones and place them into a small bowl. Add the melted butter and gently toss to coat the berries, giving them a delicate sugar coating.
-
Set aside in the fridge to chill while you prepare the rest of the components.
Step 4: Assembling the Yule Log
-
Take the panettone and slice it to create a base that is approximately 10 cm high. Arrange this slice on a serving platter or cake stand.
-
Spread a generous layer of Nutella® along the edges of the panettone to help the chocolate pieces adhere.
-
Take the chilled chocolate rectangles and carefully place them around the circumference of the panettone, slightly overlapping each piece. The Nutella® will ensure they stick together securely.
Step 5: Creating the Nutella® Spiral
-
Fill a piping bag fitted with a smooth 12 mm nozzle with Nutella®. Starting from the center of the panettone, pipe a beautiful spiral of Nutella® around the entire log.
-
Use a spatula to gently smooth out the Nutella® spiral, softening the lines for a smooth, polished finish.
Step 6: Decorating the Yule Log
-
Now it’s time to decorate your log. Sprinkle a small amount of pistachio flour over the Nutella® to mimic moss or forest ground.
-
To create a little winter wonderland, arrange sprigs of myrtle (inserted upside down) around the panettone to resemble pine trees.
-
Crumble meringues into small pieces and scatter them on the log for an extra crunch.
-
For an added touch of festive charm, dot the surface with the butter-brined currants and delicate licorice sticks, crafting a snowy, woodland-inspired scene.
Tips for a Perfect Yule Log:
- Chocolate texture: Be sure not to overheat the chocolate while melting. You want it to be smooth but not too runny so it can hold its shape on the parchment paper.
- Myrtle decoration: Myrtle leaves are a traditional touch for holiday decor, adding a burst of green and a festive feel. Feel free to experiment with other small edible decorations like holly or fir needles.
- Make-ahead option: The decorated chocolate can be made up to a day ahead of time, so you can prep the Yule Log in stages and save time on the day of your gathering.
This Christmas Yule Log with Nutella® is sure to add a luxurious touch to your holiday spread, combining classic festive flavors in a whimsical, forest-inspired design. Whether served as the final course at a festive dinner or as an eye-catching centerpiece on your dessert table, it’s guaranteed to delight your guests and leave everyone feeling merry and bright!
