Chocolate Peppermint Log
A luscious chocolate peppermint roll with rich cocoa flavor and minty filling, perfect for festive gatherings or special occasions, offering a delightful combination of chocolate and peppermint.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a 15 1/2 x 10 1/2 x 1-inch jelly roll pan with aluminum foil; generously grease the foil.
- Beat egg whites until foamy; gradually add 1/2 cup sugar, beating until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
- Beat egg yolks with vanilla on high speed for about 3 minutes; gradually add 1/3 cup sugar, beating for an additional 2 minutes.
- Combine dry ingredients (flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, salt) into the egg yolk mixture.
- Fold chocolate mixture into the beaten egg whites.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- Bake at 375°F for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the top springs back when lightly touched.
- Immediately invert onto a towel sprinkled with confectioners sugar.
- Carefully peel off the aluminum foil.
- Roll the cake in the towel starting from the narrow end; place on a wire rack to cool.
- Prepare Peppermint Filling.
- Unroll the cooled cake; remove towel and spread with filling, then reroll the cake.
- Glaze with Chocolate Glaze; chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer chocolate flavor, consider using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate. If you're out of egg whites, aquafaba can be a great vegan substitute. To prevent sticking while rolling, dust the towel with cocoa powder instead of confectioners' sugar. Ensure the cake is completely cooled before adding the filling to prevent it from melting.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the Chocolate Peppermint Log into generous portions and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added creaminess. It pairs beautifully with Chocolate Mint Meringue Cookies for a festive dessert platter. Consider garnishing with crushed peppermint candies for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Chocolate Peppermint Log in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the cake moist, place a piece of wax paper between the log and the lid of the container. For serving, let it come to room temperature before slicing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Peppermint Log contains roughly 11 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Chocolate Peppermint Log a day in advance. After assembling, tightly wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just remember to add the glaze right before serving to maintain its shine.
What type of chocolate is best for this recipe?
Using high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate will enhance the flavor of your Chocolate Peppermint Log. Avoid using chocolate chips, as they may not melt smoothly. Instead, opt for bar chocolate that you can chop finely for a smoother mixture.
Can I substitute the peppermint filling?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of peppermint, consider using a vanilla or mocha filling instead. Cream cheese frosting also works well for a tangy twist. Just ensure that the filling complements the chocolate flavor for a balanced dessert.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).