This Easter Chocolate Log Cake is a showstopper dessert that will wow your guests and fill your home with sweet, chocolatey goodness. It’s everything you love about a classic chocolate cake, rolled up into a beautiful, log-shaped masterpiece. With rich chocolate ganache and a fun Easter twist, it’s the perfect treat to serve at your holiday gathering. Ready to roll? Let’s dive into how to make this decadent, festive cake!

Why You’ll Love Easter Chocolate Log Cake

This cake is the perfect combination of elegance, flavor, and a bit of whimsy. Here’s why it’s going to be your new favorite Easter treat:

Visually Stunning: A rolled chocolate log cake looks so impressive and can be decorated to suit the season. It’s almost too pretty to eat… but not quite!
Decadent and Chocolatey: Rich chocolate sponge cake rolled with creamy, velvety chocolate ganache is a chocolate lover’s dream come true.
Perfect for Easter: You can customize the cake with Easter-themed decorations like mini eggs, bunnies, or edible flowers, making it a fun and festive centerpiece for your table.
Make Ahead: You can make this cake in advance, which means less stress on the big day! Simply store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Great for Sharing: It’s an ideal dessert to share with family and friends during your Easter celebrations. A slice of this cake goes a long way in satisfying sweet cravings!

Ingredients

Let’s go over the ingredients that will make this chocolate log cake come to life:

Eggs: The foundation of your cake, eggs provide structure and richness to the sponge.
Granulated Sugar: For sweetness and texture. We’ll use it to sweeten both the cake and the ganache.
All-Purpose Flour: The base for the cake. It keeps the sponge light and airy.
Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
Cocoa Powder: Adds that rich, chocolatey flavor to the sponge.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavor of the cake and the chocolate ganache.
Butter: For moisture and richness, ensuring the sponge is soft and tender.
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and flavor to the cake.
Heavy Cream: A key component for making the smooth and luscious chocolate ganache.
Dark Chocolate: Used to make the ganache and gives the cake a luxurious, rich taste.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the ganache without making it too heavy.
Mini Easter Eggs or Chocolate Decorations: These are for decorating your cake, giving it that festive, Easter touch.

(Note: the full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s roll up our sleeves and get this delicious cake in the oven!

Make the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10×15-inch baking sheet and line it with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until fluffy and light in color. Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, then fold them gently into the egg mixture.
Melt the butter and vanilla extract together, then fold into the batter until combined. Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, smoothing it evenly.
Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.
Let the cake cool for 5 minutes, then carefully roll it up in the parchment paper while it’s still warm. Let it cool completely.
Make the Ganache:
While the cake cools, prepare the ganache by heating the heavy cream in a saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate and let it sit for a minute. Stir until smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
Assemble the Cake:
Once the cake is completely cool, gently unroll it. Spread a generous layer of ganache over the inside of the cake, then roll it back up carefully.
Frost the outside of the cake with the remaining ganache, smoothing it with a spatula.
Decorate and Serve:
Garnish the log cake with mini Easter eggs, edible flowers, or other fun Easter decorations.
Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 10-12
Calories per serving: 350

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

How to Serve Easter Chocolate Log Cake

This chocolate log cake is a festive treat that pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few ideas to elevate your dessert experience:

With Fresh Fruit: Pair it with some fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries to add a refreshing touch.
On a Dessert Buffet: Serve it as part of an Easter dessert spread alongside other treats like carrot cake or Easter-themed cupcakes.
With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream complements the chocolate log cake perfectly and adds extra indulgence.
Garnished with Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the richness of the ganache.

Additional Tips

Make It Ahead of Time: This cake is perfect for making in advance! You can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before serving.
Use High-Quality Chocolate: The ganache will taste better with high-quality dark chocolate, so choose a good quality chocolate bar for the best flavor.
Roll the Cake Gently: Don’t rush when rolling up the cake—take your time to avoid cracking the sponge.
Customize the Decorations: Feel free to personalize the decorations with your favorite Easter candies or colored sprinkles to make it even more festive!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this cake without rolling it?
A1: Yes, you can make a traditional sheet cake and simply frost it with the ganache. The rolling step gives it the “log” effect, but it will still taste just as delicious!

Q2: Can I use milk chocolate for the ganache?
A2: Absolutely! Milk chocolate will give a sweeter, creamier taste, so feel free to use it if you prefer.

Q3: Can I make this cake a day ahead?
A3: Yes! This cake keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days, and the flavors will even improve as it sits.

Q4: How do I store leftover cake?
A4: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Q5: Can I freeze this cake?
A5: Yes, you can freeze the unassembled cake (before adding the ganache). Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it and add the ganache.

Q6: Can I decorate with fresh flowers?
A6: If you use edible flowers, they’re a beautiful and natural way to decorate the cake! Just be sure they’re safe to eat.

Q7: Can I add a filling inside the cake?
A7: Absolutely! You can fill the cake with whipped cream, more ganache, or even a fruit filling like raspberry jam for added flavor.

Q8: Can I make a gluten-free version of this cake?
A8: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

Q9: How can I make this cake less sweet?
A9: You can reduce the amount of sugar in the cake batter and use a darker chocolate for the ganache to balance the sweetness.

Q10: Can I add a little liqueur to the ganache?
A10: Yes! A splash of brandy, rum, or coffee liqueur can add a fun twist to the ganache. Just be sure to balance the flavors so it doesn’t overpower the chocolate.

Conclusion

Easter Chocolate Log Cake is a showstopper dessert that’s perfect for your holiday celebration. It’s a perfect balance of rich chocolate and festive flair, making it both a treat for the eyes and the taste buds. Whether you’re gathering with family or hosting an Easter brunch, this cake will steal the spotlight and have everyone asking for seconds!