Caramel-orange buche de noel1

2 servings

Ingredients

Quantity Ingredient
6 larges Egg yolks
⅓ cup Firmly packed dark brown sugar
2 tablespoons All purpose flour
1½ cup Toasted sliced almonds
2 tablespoons Unbleached all purpose flour
6 larges Eggs, separated
10 tablespoons Firmly packed dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon Grated orange peel
½ teaspoon Vanilla extract
½ teaspoon Cream of tartar
⅛ teaspoon Salt
1½ cup Half and half
8 ounces Imported white chocolate (such as Lindt), chopped
1½ teaspoon Grated orange peel
Powered sugar
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 tablespoon Grand Marnier or other orange liqueur
Pine twigs
Candied Cranberries (see recipe below) or fresh currants

Directions

BUTTERCREAM

CAKE

The buche de Noel, or Christmas log, was created in the late nineteenth century by Parisian pastry chefs, who were inspired by the real logs that burned on hearths throughout the night on Christmas Eve. Our version can be decorated with Candied Cranberries or fresh currants. Enjoy with a glass of orange liqueur or Sauternes.

8 Servings

FOR BUTTERCREAM: Whisk egg yolks, sugar and flour in medium bowl to blend well. Bring half and half to simmer in heavy medium saucepan.

Slowly whisk hot half and half into egg mixture. Return egg mixture to same saucepan and cook until mixture boils and thickens, whisking constantly. Transfer mixture to medium bowl. Add chocolate and orange peel and stir until mixture is smooth. Press plastic wrap onto surface f pastry cream to prevent skin from orming. Cool completely.

(Pastry cream can be prepared 1 day ahead. Refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before continuing.) ===contined====

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