How to Make a Grinch Christmas Log
- Kim Williamson
- Dec 10, 2024
- 4 min read
The holiday season is a special time to indulge in delightful treats that spread joy and cheer. Why not create a whimsical dessert that captures the fun essence of the Grinch? This Grinch Christmas Log, also known as a Yule log, is a vibrant addition to your festive gatherings. Adorned with cheerful green frosting, this cake not only tastes delicious but also serves as a fun centerpiece that will light up the room. In this post, you will learn how to bring this sweet creation to life step by step, ensuring a delicious holiday experience for you and your loved ones.
Gathering Your Ingredients
Before diving into this delightful baking adventure, it’s essential to gather all the ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you will need:
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup of whole milk
- 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of boiling water
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups of powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup of heavy cream
- Green food coloring
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
For Decoration:
- Red and white sprinkles (to mimic ornaments)
- Fresh berries or edible glitter (for an extra festive touch)
Having everything ready will make your baking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Baking the Chocolate Cake
Now that you have gathered your ingredients, let’s get to the baking part!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a jelly roll pan (typically 15 x 10 inches) with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until everything is well combined.
In another bowl, beat the eggs then add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix these wet ingredients into the dry mixture until everything is nicely blended.
Gradually pour in the boiling water, stirring gently to combine. The batter will be thin—this is perfectly fine as it leads to a moist cake!
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Roll the cake up with the towel, starting from the short end, and let it cool completely.
Preparing the Frosting
While the cake is cooling, let’s get started on the frosting that will make your Grinch log truly shine!
In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter using a hand mixer until it becomes creamy.
Gradually add in the powdered sugar, followed by the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Mix everything until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
Add green food coloring bit by bit until you reach a bright Grinch-like green. Set aside a small amount of frosting if you want to use it for decorative touches later.
Assembling the Grinch Log
Assembling your Grinch Christmas Log is where the real fun begins!
Once the cake has completely cooled, carefully unroll it from the towel. If it has minor cracks, don’t worry; they will be hidden under frosting.
Spread an even layer of frosting over the top of the unrolled cake.
Roll the cake back up without the towel, placing it seam-side down on a serving platter.
Use a spatula or knife to frost the outside of the log, creating a rustic bark effect by dragging the tool through the frosting.
If you saved any frosting earlier, use it to create swirls on top or to make decorative branches on the log.
Decorating Your Grinch Log
Now it's time to unleash your creativity and decorate your Grinch Christmas Log!
Sprinkle red and white sprinkles over the top to mimic ornaments adorning a Christmas tree.
Add festive touches like fresh berries or a sprinkle of edible glitter for a bit of sparkle.
Get inventive! Craft a small sign that says “Merry Grinchmas!” or any other cheery message to place next to your log.
Serving Up the Festivities
Your Grinch Christmas Log is now ready to be the star of your holiday spread!
Slice the log into generous pieces and serve alongside a warm cup of cocoa or festive eggnog for a delightful combination.
This joyful dessert can act as a fantastic centerpiece on your holiday dessert table, inviting your guests with its lively colors and playful charm. It’s sure to capture attention!
For an indulgent treat, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream next to the log for a delightful contrast to the chocolate.
A Sweet Seasonal Treat
Making a Grinch Christmas Log is a joyful way to celebrate the holiday season. With its vibrant colors and rich chocolate flavor, this dessert pays homage to the beloved character while creating delightful memories.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step guide, and let your creative spirit flourish! Your friends and family will love the effort and creativity you put into this timeless treat. As you savor your Grinch Log, let it remind you of the magic of the season and the joy it brings. Happy baking and Merry Grinchmas!
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