Christmas log

### Instructions

#### Step 1: Make the Sponge Cake
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together with an electric mixer until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, being careful not to deflate the batter.
4. Add the vanilla extract and hot water, mixing gently until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake is firm to the touch.
6. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. While it’s still warm, carefully roll the cake up in a clean kitchen towel (parchment paper can also be used), starting from one of the short edges. Allow it to cool completely in this rolled shape to maintain its form.

#### Step 2: Make the Chocolate Buttercream
1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Continue beating until the frosting is fluffy and smooth. If the buttercream is too thick, add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

#### Step 3: Assemble the Christmas Log
1. Once the cake has cooled completely, carefully unroll it from the towel. Spread a layer of chocolate buttercream over the entire surface of the cake, leaving about 1 inch from the edges.
2. Roll the cake back up tightly, making sure the seam is on the bottom.
3. Trim the edges of the roll to create clean, flat ends. Place the cake on a serving platter.
4. Spread the remaining buttercream over the outside of the cake, smoothing it out. Use a fork or a knife to create a bark-like texture by dragging it through the frosting in horizontal lines.

#### Step 4: Decorate and Serve
1. Dust the cake with powdered sugar to create a snowy effect.
2. If desired, add small sprigs of holly, berries, or other festive decorations to enhance the appearance.
3. Slice and serve the cake!

### Tips for Success

– **Choose the Right Pan:** Use a shallow baking pan to ensure the cake cooks evenly and is easy to roll. A 9×13-inch pan is the ideal size.
– **Don’t Overbake:** Keep an eye on the sponge cake while baking. Overbaking can make it dry and difficult to roll.
– **Roll While Warm:** Rolling the cake while it’s still warm helps it keep its shape when cooled. This step is key to getting the perfect log shape.
– **Customize the Filling:** While chocolate buttercream is classic, you can also use whipped cream, mascarpone filling, or even fruit preserves for a unique twist.

### Why You’ll Love This Christmas Log

The Christmas Log is a show-stopping dessert that combines light, fluffy cake with rich chocolate flavor, making it a perfect treat for the holiday season. Its festive appearance adds a special touch to any celebration, and it’s surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner bakers. Plus, the chocolate buttercream is decadently smooth and delicious, making each slice irresistible.

Whether you’re serving it at Christmas dinner or sharing it with loved ones, this **Christmas Log** is sure to become a beloved tradition in your holiday celebrations. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress—this delightful dessert is just as fun to make as it is to eat!