Log Cabin Cake
Transport your taste buds to a cozy woodland retreat with this decadent Log Cabin Cake, a showstopping dessert that combines rich layers of chocolate, creamy Nutella frosting, and a glossy ganache drizzle. This visually stunning cake gets its name from its unique log-like structure, created by stacking thin rectangular layers of moist chocolate cake with a luscious Nutella cream cheese frosting in between. Topped with a ganache that mimics the look of tree bark and detailed with rustic wood-grain textures, this cake is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Perfect for themed gatherings, holidays, or as a centerpiece dessert, this recipe is sure to impress and delight. With just 30 minutes of prep and simple techniques, you can bring this rustic-inspired masterpiece to life.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2.5 cups All-purpose flour
- 0.75 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups Granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons Baking powder
- 1 teaspoon Baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.75 cup Unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 large Eggs
- 1.25 cups Whole milk
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
- 0.5 cup Heavy cream
- 8 ounces Bittersweet chocolate (chopped)
- 1.5 cups Confectioners' sugar
- 8 ounces Cream cheese (softened)
- 0.5 cup Nutella or chocolate-hazelnut spread
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch square baking pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add softened butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat the mixture on medium speed with a hand or stand mixer until smooth and well combined.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Tap the pans gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
To make the ganache topping, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes. Stir gently until smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool slightly.
For the frosting, beat cream cheese and confectioners' sugar together in a mixing bowl until fluffy. Add the Nutella and beat until fully incorporated, creating a smooth and rich frosting.
Trim the edges of the cooled cakes to ensure even sides. Cut each square cake slab into three long rectangular strips, making a total of six strips.
Spread a thin layer of frosting between each strip as you stack the cake to form a log-like structure. Use the remaining frosting to cover the outside of the cake completely, smoothing it with a spatula for a rustic texture.
Drizzle the slightly cooled ganache over the cake to mimic tree bark. Allow the ganache to set for about 10 minutes.
Use a fork or skewer to create wood-like patterns on the frosted cake surface. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set before serving.
Slice and enjoy your Log Cabin Cake, perfect for gatherings or themed celebrations!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
8703 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 447.7 g | 574% | |
| Saturated Fat | 257.5 g | 1288% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1353 mg | 451% | |
| Sodium | 4564 mg | 198% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 1144.5 g | 416% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 99.9 g | 357% | |
| Total Sugars | 764.0 g | ||
| Protein | 134.2 g | 268% | |
| Vitamin D | 8.6 mcg | 43% | |
| Calcium | 1272 mg | 98% | |
| Iron | 65.5 mg | 364% | |
| Potassium | 5681 mg | 121% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
