Learn how to make the best Christmas log recipe! A no-bake Maltese classic with chocolate, nuts, and festive spices.
Christmas Log Recipe
Ah, Christmas! That time of year when our homes smell cinnamon, cloves, and everything delicious. And what better way to add a festive touch to your dessert table than with the ultimate Christmas log recipe?
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone who tends to burn toast, this recipe is simple, customisable, and utterly delightful. Plus, no oven is required! Let’s dive into the beloved Maltese Christmas log story and how you can make one at home.
What Is a Christmas Log, and Why Is It Special?
The Christmas log, or as we say in Malta, the Maltese Christmas log, is a no-bake dessert that has become a quintessential part of our festive celebrations.
Unlike its sponge cake counterpart, the Yule log, which hails from France and features whipped cream fillings, the Maltese version is about simplicity and rich, chocolatey goodness.
Packed with tea biscuits, candied fruits, nuts, and a touch of aromatic spices, it screams Christmas with every bite.
A Slice of History – The Origins of the Yule Log Tradition
The origins of the Yule log date back centuries, when European families celebrated the winter solstice by burning a large log in their hearths. This tradition symbolised warmth, light, and the promise of longer days.
Over time, the burning of the Yule log evolved into a culinary tradition, with desserts shaped like logs taking centre stage on festive tables. The Maltese Christmas log carries this legacy forward, blending tradition with local flavours and ingredients.
What Makes This the Best Christmas Log Recipe?
Well, it’s all about the ingredients and the customisation. Want to throw in your favourite nuts? Go for it. Prefer a boozy kick? A splash of rum will do the trick. Craving that chocolate overload?
Layer it with chocolate spread and finish it off with a glossy coat of melted chocolate. This recipe has it all—the charm of tradition and the flexibility to make it your own.
How to Make a Christmas Log – A Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients (Serves 8-10):
450ml condensed milk
300g Novi Milk cooking chocolate (or your preferred brand)
1 packet of tea biscuits
100g candied cherries
75g hazelnuts
75g walnuts
50g dates
50g sultanas
1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tbsp rum (optional)
½ tbsp ground cinnamon
½ tbsp ground cloves
½ tbsp freshly grated nutmeg
Method:
Prepare the Ingredients:
Crush the tea biscuits into fine crumbs using a rolling pin or food processor.
Chop the hazelnuts, walnuts, and dates into chunky pieces.
Grate the nutmeg fresh for maximum aroma and flavour.
Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed biscuits, hazelnuts, walnuts, dates, sultanas, cocoa powder, cinnamon, cloves, grated nutmeg, and optional rum.
Add the Sweetness:
Gradually pour in the condensed milk, stirring as you go, until the mixture binds together.
Shape the Log:
Use your hands to form the mixture into a log shape. Wrap it tightly in cling film and refrigerate overnight to set.
Coat with Chocolate:
The next day, melt the cooking chocolate using a bain-marie. Unwrap the log and place it on a sheet of parchment paper. Pour the melted chocolate over the log, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
Final Chill:
Allow the chocolate to set by chilling the log for another few hours (or overnight, if you’re patient enough!).
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice into rounds and serve your masterpiece with a side of festive cheer.
Christmas Log Ideas – Take It to the Next Level
Go Boozy: Add a splash of Baileys or Grand Marnier for an adult twist.
Creative Designs: Decorate with edible glitter, crushed candy canes, or white chocolate drizzle for a snow-dusted look.
Nut-Free Option: Substitute nuts with crushed digestive biscuits or marshmallows for a kid-friendly version.
Anton B. Dougall Style: Pay homage to one of Malta’s culinary legends by following his traditional Maltese Christmas log techniques.
Why the Maltese Christmas Chocolate Log Stands Out
The Maltese Christmas chocolate log isn’t just a dessert; it’s a piece of history. It has evolved into a customisable masterpiece from its humble beginnings as a treat made with tea biscuits and condensed milk. It’s also a fantastic activity to share with family, especially kids who love getting messy in the kitchen.
If you’re interested in more Christmas dessert recipes, look at our Christmas Gingerbread tart recipe, which stole the show for us this year.
FAQs About Christmas Logs
What are the key Christmas log ingredients?
The essentials include tea biscuits, condensed milk, cocoa powder, nuts, and candied fruits. The magic happens when you personalise it with your favourite flavours.
How long does it take to make a Christmas log?
Preparation takes about 20 minutes, but for best results, the log needs to be set overnight in the fridge.
Can I make a Christmas log without nuts?
Absolutely! Substitute nuts with additional dried fruits or crushed biscuits.
Which chocolate should I use for this Christmas Log Recipe?
Dark or Milk chocolate would be the preferred choice. We used NOVI Chocolate from Whatsinstore
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