Heavenly Kinder Bueno Chocolate Log: A Decadent Homemade Dessert 🥮🍫
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this luscious Kinder Bueno Chocolate Log, a show-stopping treat that combines the rich, creamy flavors of Kinder Bueno with a light, fluffy sponge cake. Perfect for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this dessert is a delightful fusion of textures and tastes. The airy chocolate sponge, velvety mascarpone cream studded with Kinder Bueno pieces, and a dusting of cocoa powder create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable yet impressive, making it a must-try for any chocolate lover. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients (Serves 8-10)
For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 100 grams (½ cup) granulated sugar
- 100 grams (¾ cup) all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (or 1 sachet of chemical yeast)
- 100 grams (3.5 oz) high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher for best flavor)
- Pinch of salt (optional, to enhance flavors)
For the Kinder Bueno Mascarpone Cream:
- 200 grams (¾ cup) mascarpone cheese, chilled
- 5 Kinder Bueno bars (approximately 107 grams), roughly crushed
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra depth)
For Decoration:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Optional: Extra Kinder Bueno pieces, chocolate shavings, or edible gold dust for a luxurious touch
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) rectangular baking tray or jelly roll pan
- Parchment paper
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
- Sieve (for dusting cocoa powder)
- Clean kitchen towel (for rolling the cake)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 9×13-inch baking tray with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends slightly over the edges for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment with a touch of butter or non-stick spray to ensure the sponge releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites
Separate the egg whites from the yolks, placing the whites in a clean, grease-free mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add a tablespoon of the granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form. Set aside. This step is crucial for creating a light, airy sponge that rolls beautifully without cracking.
Step 3: Mix the Egg Yolks and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg yolks and the remaining granulated sugar. Whisk vigorously (by hand or with a mixer) until the mixture becomes pale, creamy, and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes. This process, known as blanching, ensures a smooth and fluffy batter.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt (if using). Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg yolk mixture using a spatula, mixing gently to avoid deflating the batter. The mixture will be thick at this stage, but don’t worry—it will loosen up with the next steps.
Step 5: Melt the Chocolate
Break the dark chocolate into small pieces and melt it gently using a double boiler (or microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring between each). Allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly, then stir it into the batter until fully incorporated. The chocolate adds a rich, indulgent flavor that pairs perfectly with the Kinder Bueno cream.
Step 6: Fold in the Egg Whites
Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the chocolate batter in three additions. Use a spatula and a light hand to preserve the airiness of the egg whites. The batter should be smooth, glossy, and slightly voluminous.
Step 7: Bake the Sponge
Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure a uniform thickness. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the sponge is set and springs back lightly when touched. Avoid overbaking to keep the sponge flexible for rolling.
Step 8: Roll and Cool
Once baked, remove the sponge from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Place a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and dust it lightly with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Carefully invert the sponge onto the towel, peel off the parchment paper, and roll the sponge (with the towel) from the short end. This step helps the sponge “learn” its rolled shape. Allow it to cool completely, about 30 minutes.
Step 9: Prepare the Kinder Bueno Cream
In a medium bowl, combine the chilled mascarpone with the crushed Kinder Bueno bars. For a sweeter cream, add 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whip the mixture with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. The Kinder Bueno pieces add a delightful crunch and hazelnut flavor to the cream.
Step 10: Assemble the Log
Once the sponge is completely cool, unroll it gently. Spread the Kinder Bueno mascarpone cream evenly over the surface, leaving a 1-inch border along one short end to prevent overflow when rolling. Starting from the opposite short end, carefully roll the sponge back into a log shape, using the towel to guide it. Place the log seam-side down on a serving platter.
Step 11: Chill and Decorate
Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight) to set the cream and make slicing easier. Before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder using a sieve for a polished look. For an extra touch, garnish with additional Kinder Bueno pieces, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of edible gold dust.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the Kinder Bueno Chocolate Log into 1-inch thick pieces and serve chilled for the best texture. Pair it with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or a glass of dessert wine for an elegant finish. This dessert is perfect for holiday celebrations, birthdays, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a homemade masterpiece.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 10 Servings)
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 6 grams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 38 grams
- Sugar: 25 grams
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Time Breakdown
- Preparation: 30 minutes
- Baking: 15 minutes
- Chilling: 2 hours (minimum)
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes
Tips for Success
- Room-Temperature Eggs: Using eggs at room temperature helps the whites whip up better and ensures a smoother batter.
- Gentle Folding: When incorporating the egg whites, use a slow, deliberate folding motion to maintain the batter’s airiness.
- Prevent Cracking: Rolling the sponge while it’s still warm helps it hold its shape without cracking. If cracks do appear, the cream and cocoa powder will hide them beautifully!
- Customize the Cream: For a lighter filling, mix the mascarpone with a small amount of whipped cream. For a nuttier flavor, add a tablespoon of hazelnut spread.
- Make Ahead: The log can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it a convenient dessert for entertaining.
Variations to Try
- White Chocolate Twist: Swap the dark chocolate in the sponge for white chocolate and use Kinder Bueno White for the filling.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped hazelnuts or almonds to the mascarpone cream for extra texture.
- Festive Flair: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or orange zest into the sponge batter for a holiday-inspired flavor.
- Mini Logs: Instead of one large log, cut the sponge into smaller sections before rolling to create individual mini logs for a party platter.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Kinder Bueno Chocolate Log is a celebration of indulgence, combining the nostalgic flavors of Kinder Bueno with the sophistication of a classic rolled sponge cake. It’s a dessert that looks like it came from a high-end patisserie but is surprisingly easy to make at home. The contrast of the tender chocolate sponge, creamy hazelnut-studded filling, and elegant cocoa dusting makes every bite a delight. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your tastes or the occasion, whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or treating your family to something special.
Share Your Creation!
We’d love to see how your Kinder Bueno Chocolate Log turns out! Share your photos, tweaks, or serving ideas on social media and tag us for a chance to be featured. Have a unique spin on this recipe? Let us know in the comments below—whether it’s adding a splash of liqueur to the cream or experimenting with different chocolate bars, we’re all about creativity in the kitchen!
