NONNA’S YULE LOG (TRONCHETTO DI NATALE)

When Christmas comes, the time also comes to enjoy the Christmas Tronchetto!

Along with pandoro and panettone, Tronchetto is indeed one of the iconic desserts of the holidays.

And since it is not particularly difficult to prepare it, we can try making it at home to give moments of sweetness to our family and friends.

The Christmas Tronchetto can be recognized by its appearance that imitates that of a wooden log, but also by its soft texture and irresistible chocolate coating.

With a few Christmas decorations it also becomes a very scenic dessert, perfect for soaking in the atmosphere of this magical time of year.

The History of the Christmas Tronchetto

The Christmas Tronchetto is a typical holiday dessert that is very popular in France. It seems to have started to spread across the Alps since after World War II, when people began to make this dessert in the shape of a trunk.

But why exactly in the shape of a log? In all likelihood, to celebrate a very old tradition, dating back to at least the 12th century, that was widespread throughout much of Europe. From Scandinavia to Britain, from the Alpine countries to the Mediterranean countries, there was in fact thecustom of the Christmas log: on Christmas Eve, families would put a log of wood to burn in the fireplace and leave it there to burn until Epiphany. The embers were then kept, as they were believed to be propitiatory of rich harvests and fruitful breeding.

The custom was lost in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, but the Christmas log continues to remind contemporaries of it.

Why Nonna Suggest This Recipe

Nonna loves this Yule Log recipe because it’s a perfect blend of tradition, artistry, and flavor. Here’s why it holds a special place in her heart:

• Festive Charm: This dessert is a centerpiece-worthy showstopper, embodying the holiday spirit.
• Family Activity: Decorating the log is a fun way to involve the whole family in holiday preparations.
• Deliciously Versatile: The filling and decorations can be tailored to suit personal preferences, from fruity jams to nutty spreads.
• Rich and Decadent: The buttercream and chocolate give this dessert a luxurious texture and taste.

For Nonna, this Yule Log is more than a dessert—it’s a symbol of celebration and togetherness during the festive season. ❤️

 

 

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Chilling Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 42 minutes
• Servings: 8–10

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Ingredients

For the Roll:

• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Buttercream:

• 1 cup + 2 tbsp (2 1/4 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup + 2 tbsp dark chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
• 2–3 tbsp milk

For Decoration:

• Powdered sugar
• Sprigs of rosemary, currants, or cranberries (optional)
• Chocolate chips or shavings for a woody effect

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Roll:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a 12×16 inch rectangular baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Beat the eggs, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt in a bowl until the mixture is pale, thick, and fluffy.
3. Sift the flour and cocoa powder together, then gently fold them into the egg mixture with a spatula. Stir carefully from bottom to top to avoid deflating the batter.
4. Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the sponge is springy to the touch.
6. Remove from the oven, transfer the sponge (with the parchment) onto a clean tea towel dusted with powdered sugar, and roll it up gently with the towel. Let it cool completely.

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2. Make the Chocolate Buttercream:

1. Melt the dark chocolate in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth. Let it cool to room temperature.
2. In a mixing bowl, whip the softened butter with the powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the melted chocolate and 2–3 tablespoons of milk, and whisk until the buttercream is smooth and spreadable.

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3. Assemble the Log:

1. Carefully unroll the cooled sponge and spread one-third of the buttercream evenly over the surface.
2. Roll it back up tightly and cut one end diagonally to create a small “branch.”
3. Attach the branch to the main log using a small amount of buttercream.
4. Cover the entire log with the remaining buttercream, smoothing it with a spatula. Use a fork to create bark-like streaks for a realistic effect.

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4. Decorate:

1. Dust the log with powdered sugar to resemble snow.
2. Add sprigs of rosemary and red fruits like cranberries or currants for a festive touch.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the buttercream to set.

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Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	380 kcal
Carbohydrates	25g
Protein	5g
Fat	28g
Saturated Fat	16g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	22g
Sodium	50mg

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Tips and Tricks by Nonna

1. Prevent Cracking: Roll the sponge cake while it’s still warm to prevent it from cracking.
2. Flavor Variations: Add orange zest or espresso powder to the buttercream for a unique twist.
3. Lighten It Up: Swap the buttercream with a chocolate whipped ganache for a lighter texture.
4. Perfect Texture: Chill the assembled log briefly before applying the final layer of buttercream for smoother decoration.
5. Storage: Store the log in the refrigerator but let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving to soften the buttercream.

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Nonna hopes this Chocolate Yule Log brings joy and deliciousness to your holiday celebrations. Buon Natale! 🎄🍫

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Yule Log (Tronchetto di Natale)

When Christmas comes, the time also comes to enjoy the Christmas Tronchetto!

Along with pandoro and panettone, Tronchetto is indeed one of the iconic desserts of the holidays.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

2 hours hrs

Total Time 2 hours hrs 42 minutes mins

Course Christmas Italian Recipes

Cuisine Italian

Servings 8

Notes

Ingredients

For the Roll:

• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Buttercream:

• 1 cup + 2 tbsp (2 1/4 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup + 2 tbsp dark chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
• 2–3 tbsp milk

For Decoration:

• Powdered sugar
• Sprigs of rosemary, currants, or cranberries (optional)
• Chocolate chips or shavings for a woody effect

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Roll:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a 12x16 inch rectangular baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Beat the eggs, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt in a bowl until the mixture is pale, thick, and fluffy.
3. Sift the flour and cocoa powder together, then gently fold them into the egg mixture with a spatula. Stir carefully from bottom to top to avoid deflating the batter.
4. Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the sponge is springy to the touch.
6. Remove from the oven, transfer the sponge (with the parchment) onto a clean tea towel dusted with powdered sugar, and roll it up gently with the towel. Let it cool completely.

---

2. Make the Chocolate Buttercream:

1. Melt the dark chocolate in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth. Let it cool to room temperature.
2. In a mixing bowl, whip the softened butter with the powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the melted chocolate and 2–3 tablespoons of milk, and whisk until the buttercream is smooth and spreadable.

---

3. Assemble the Log:

1. Carefully unroll the cooled sponge and spread one-third of the buttercream evenly over the surface.
2. Roll it back up tightly and cut one end diagonally to create a small "branch."
3. Attach the branch to the main log using a small amount of buttercream.
4. Cover the entire log with the remaining buttercream, smoothing it with a spatula. Use a fork to create bark-like streaks for a realistic effect.

---

4. Decorate:

1. Dust the log with powdered sugar to resemble snow.
2. Add sprigs of rosemary and red fruits like cranberries or currants for a festive touch.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the buttercream to set.

Keyword yule log, tronchetto,

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