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Yule Log Cake

  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...
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Stuffing (Dressing)

 

Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

  • 10 cups cubed bread (stale or lightly toasted; a mix of white, whole wheat, or sourdough works well)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried sage
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2-2.5 cups chicken or vegetable broth (for moistening the stuffing)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1/2 lb ground sausage, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1 cup diced apples


Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

  1. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them on a baking sheet.
  2. Toast in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until slightly dry and crisp. Let cool.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

  1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
  3. Stir in parsley, sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute to release the herbs' aroma.

Step 3: Mix the Stuffing

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with the sautéed aromatics.
  2. If using optional add-ins like sausage, cranberries, nuts, or apples, mix them in now.
  3. Gradually pour in the broth, tossing gently until the bread is evenly moistened but not soggy.
  4. Add the beaten eggs and mix well to bind the ingredients.

Step 4: Bake the Stuffing

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish.
  3. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crisp.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Let the stuffing cool slightly before serving. Pair it with your favorite holiday main dishes like roast turkey or ham!

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