Ingredients For the Sponge Cake: 4 large eggs, separated 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar (for egg whites) 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 1/3 cup (40g) all-purpose flour 1/3 cup (35g) unsweetened cocoa powder 1/2 tsp baking powder 1/4 tsp salt For the Filling: 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled 2 tbsp powdered sugar 1 tsp pure vanilla extract For the Chocolate Ganache Frosting: 1 cup (170g) semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream 1 tsp unsalted butter (optional, for shine) For Decoration (Optional): Powdered sugar (for "snow") Chocolate shavings, berries, or sprigs of rosemary (for a festive touch) Instructions Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake Preheat the Oven : Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10x15-inch (25x38 cm) jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Whip the Egg Yolks : In a large bowl, whisk egg yolks and 1/2 cup sugar until thick and pale y...
Ingredients For the Cookies: 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp salt 1 tbsp ground ginger 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg 1/4 tsp ground cloves 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed 1/2 cup (120ml) molasses 1 large egg 1 tsp pure vanilla extract For Decoration: Royal icing (store-bought or homemade) Assorted sprinkles, candies, or edible glitter Instructions Step 1: Make the Dough Mix Dry Ingredients : In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Cream Butter and Sugars : In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Add Molasses and Egg : Mix in molasses, egg, and vanilla extract until combined. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients : Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until a smooth dough forms. Chill the Doug...