Yule Log (bûche de Noël)

Whether you’re seeking an easy Yule log recipe or a modern twist on the French bûche de Noël, this iteration supplies the best of both. The creamy chocolate spread and addition of raspberries makes it a little lighter (but just as decadent). While we’ve kept our decorations simple, feel free to let our creative spirit shine with the addition of chocolate ‘bark’, fondant ‘ornaments’ or other additions that might make your Yule log look even more festive.

• 200 gm fresh raspberries, plus extra to serve
• Chocolate shards and slivered pistachios, to serve

• 3 eggs, at room temperature
• 80 gm caster sugar
• 60 gm plain flour, sifted
• 30 gm Dutch-process cocoa, plus extra for dusting
• 20 gm butter, melted

• 100 gm each dark and milk chocolate, chopped
• 70 gm unsalted butter, softened, chopped
• 250 gm cream cheese, at room temperature
• 300 ml thickened cream