Chocolate Christmas Log: Gourmet Recipe

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup cherry jam
• 1/4 cup kirsch (cherry brandy)
• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream, whipped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until pale and thick.
3. Sift the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt together and fold into the egg mixture.
4. Grease a rimmed baking sheet with butter and pour the cake batter into the pan.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Meanwhile, heat the 1/2 cup of heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until hot.
7. Add the chopped dark chocolate and stir until melted and smooth.
8. Remove from heat and add the softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
9. When the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
10. Flip the cake onto a large clean kitchen towel, then gently peel off the parchment paper.
11. Spread the cherry jam over the cake, then sprinkle with kirsch and top with the chopped cherries.
12. Carefully roll up the cake, using the towel to help you roll and keep the cake tight.
13. Once rolled, seal the ends of the cake by pressing the sides together and chill for 30 minutes.
14. After 30 minutes, remove the cake from the fridge and use a sharp knife to cut off a diagonal slice from one end of the cake. Position it on top of the cake to resemble a cut branch.
15. Use a spatula to spread the chocolate ganache over the cake, covering it completely. Drag the tines of a fork through the ganache to create bark-like ridges.
16. Return the cake to the fridge for at least an hour, or until ready to serve.
17. When ready to serve, slice the cake into rounds and serve with whipped cream on top.

Verdict:

This gourmet Chocolate Christmas Log is the perfect dessert to impress your guests during the holidays. The combination of rich chocolate, tart cherries, and boozy kirsch make for a decadent and festive treat.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve alongside a cup of hot cocoa or coffee for the ultimate holiday indulgence. Top with festive decorations such as holly leaves or sugared cranberries.