Christmas Choc Orange Yule Log

1. Using an electric whisk, beat the sugar and eggs together for 5 minutes until thick and fold in sifted flour, cocoa and salt until fully mixed.

2. Pour into a shallow 32cm x 23cm baking tin that has been greased and lined with baking paper and bake in an oven pre heated to 200c / gas mark 6 for 12 minutes. Leave to cool slightly then turn out onto another sheet of baking paper. Roll then leave to cool (I find using this method the cake forms a memory and doesn`t break when rolling the finished product) .

3. Whip the double cream then add the liquor. Un-roll the sponge then spread on the marmalade leaving an inch gap around the edge, spread on the whipped cream then add the orange segments, roll again then chill until needed.

4. Warm the double cream being careful not to boil then add in the chocolate, which has been broken up into small pieces. Stir until fully combined and the place in the fridge to thicken.

5. Cut both ends of the log on an angle then cut a piece 3 inches long and place to the side of the log.

6. Spread the ganache onto the log with a palate knife. To serve dust with icing sugar, some holly and a fake robin if you are feeling festive!

- - - - - ALYSSA Denny Janice Dawn Mike Ames Rick Rick Wild Gledhill Robyn Stone