Lincoln Log
Lincoln Log is a light, airy chocolate sponge roll filled with whipped cream or ice cream, perfect for a sweet, nostalgic dessert suitable for gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together 1/2 cup sugar, all-purpose flour, cocoa, and salt.
- Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff, but not dry.
- Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar, beating constantly.
- Set aside.
- Beat egg yolks until thick and lemon colored.
- Add vanilla and fold in dry ingredients.
- Then fold in egg whites.
- Spread evenly in a greased and floured 15 1/2 x 10 x 1-inch pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 25 minutes.
- Roll up in a towel sprinkled with powdered sugar and let cool.
- Unroll and spread with filling (whipped cream or ice cream).
- Re-roll and spread with chocolate icing or dust with powdered sugar.
- Refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure a light and fluffy texture, be careful not to overbeat the egg whites; they should hold stiff peaks but remain moist. If you don't have cream of tartar, you can substitute it with lemon juice or white vinegar. For a richer taste, consider adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to the cocoa mixture. This recipe can also be modified to create a pumpkin-flavored version by replacing some cocoa with pumpkin puree and spices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Lincoln Log with a dollop of whipped cream on top and fresh berries for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with Helen'S Sweet Potato Casserole for a festive meal. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving it alongside coffee or a light dessert wine to complement the chocolate flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If the log has icing, it's best to keep it uncut until serving to prevent it from becoming soggy. To reheat, simply place individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, being careful not to overheat, as it can dry out the dessert.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lincoln Log contains roughly 422 calories, with 8g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose has a good texture for baking and that it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum to help maintain the structure of the cake.
What are some filling options besides whipped cream?
In addition to whipped cream, you can fill the Lincoln Log with flavored cream cheese, ice cream, or even a rich ganache for a decadent twist. For a fruitier option, consider using a layer of sweetened mascarpone cheese and sliced strawberries, which adds a fresh touch to the dessert.
How can I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?
To minimize cracking, make sure to roll the cake tightly while it is still warm. Use a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar to help the cake release easily as you roll it. If it does crack, simply patch it up with icing when serving; it will still taste delicious!
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).