So, second challenge time. This time I was rather worried when I discovered it was a yule log, even more so when I saw the extensive list of ingredients and recipes involved.I put it off for a while and after a minor disaster with the first batch of meringue mushrooms I finally got it made. There were no real disasters with the recipes, the butter cream was lovely and the sponge did crack when rolled but that was no problem a layer of icing couldn’t fix easily.
Although everything went really well, it was a challenge this month which is great as I am learning new skills and techniques that I have never encountered before so I can’t complain.
I did make a change to the butter cream icing. I am not a big coffee fan and so rather than spend out on the espresso powder that would never be used again I used melted Belgian chocolate and once cool mixed with the soft butter. It worked beautifully but I think I would even add more chocolate next time for a richer flavour.
For the filling we could use whatever took our fancy so I used the butter cream and some chopped walnuts.
Carl and I had the first taste, and the boys at Toyota Europe were very happy with the remainder the next day.
I may make this next year but I’ll need the years rest before I try it again!

Lovely white mushrooms after an early disaster. TIP, read the recipe carefully and do not mistake an F for a C.
Also topped with orange and lime peel as well as mushrooms.

I will update this entry with relevant links and the recipe at a later date. I am on my Christmas holiday in England and it is 2:30 am. night night fellow Daring people!