How to Make a Santa Christmas Log Cake

Kim Williamson
Dec 10, 2024
4 min read

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and of course, delicious treats. What better way to elevate your festivities than with a charming Santa Christmas log cake? Not only is this cake a feast for the taste buds, but it also brings a festive flair to your holiday table.

ide, we will walk you through the process of making this delightful dessert, sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients Needed

To create a Santa Christmas log cake, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Chocolate Sponge:

4 large eggs
100g caster sugar
100g all-purpose flour
30g unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
A pinch of salt

For the Filling:

250g mascarpone cheese
200ml double cream
50g icing sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache:

200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa is ideal for rich flavor)
200ml double cream

For Decoration:

Red fondant or marzipan (a 100g pack is sufficient)
White icing or whipped cream for fluffy trim
Edible glitter (optional)
Fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries (a handful for garnish)

Preparing the Chocolate Sponge

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Mix the Eggs and Sugar: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and caster sugar until the mixture is thick and pale. This should take about 5 minutes with an electric mixer.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Fold Ingredients Together: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix as this could make the sponge dense.
Bake the Sponge: Pour the mixture into a lined baking tray (measuring approximately 30cm x 20cm) and spread evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until it springs back when touched.
Cool the Sponge: Once baked, transfer the sponge to a wire rack. Place a clean kitchen towel over it to keep it moist as it cools.

Creating the Filling

Prepare the Mascarpone Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, double cream, icing sugar, and vanilla extract.
Whip the Cream: Using an electric mixer, whisk until the mixture forms stiff peaks, creating a light and fluffy filling.
Spread the Filling: Once the sponge is completely cool, turn it out onto a clean surface. Spread the mascarpone mixture evenly over the sponge.

Rolling the Log

Roll the Sponge: Starting from one end, gently roll the sponge tightly while using the kitchen towel to help shape it. This helps keep the log intact.
Chill the Log: Wrap the rolled sponge in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This setting time will help the log retain its shape.

Preparing the Chocolate Ganache

Heat the Cream: In a saucepan, heat the double cream until it just begins to boil.
Melt the Chocolate: Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate. Stir until melted and the mixture is smooth.
Cool the Ganache: Allow the ganache to cool slightly until it thickens, making it easier to spread over the log.

Decorating the Log Cake

Unwrap and Place the Log: Carefully remove the plastic wrap from the chilled log and position it on your serving platter.
Cover the Log with Ganache: Pour the cooled chocolate ganache over the log, ensuring it is coated evenly.
Create Texture: Take a spatula or fork and create bark-like textures on the ganache for a rustic effect.
Add Santa Elements: Roll out red fondant to create a Santa hat. Use white icing or whipped cream to form a fluffy trim around the hat.
Finish with Berries: For an extra festive touch, decorate with fresh berries and a light sprinkle of edible glitter.

Tips for a Perfect Santa Christmas Log Cake

Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh cream and high-quality chocolate (aim for at least 70% cocoa) greatly enhances the flavor of the cake.
Practice Patience: Allow the cake to chill thoroughly after rolling. This ensures it holds shape during slicing.
Be Creative: Personalize your decoration! Consider adding edible Santa figures or creating a winter scene with icing.

Serving the Cake

When your Santa Christmas log cake is beautifully decorated, slice it into generous pieces. This festive treat pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a warming hot chocolate.

Festive Baking Made Fun

Creating a Santa Christmas log cake is an enjoyable and rewarding experience, perfect for showcasing your baking skills during the holidays. With its rich flavor and charming design, this cake is sure to brighten your celebrations. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into holiday baking! Each slice brings a taste of warmth and joy to your gatherings.