The Yule Log is a staple Christmas dessert in many countries around the world and anyone who books a vacation rental in France likely is already aware that French pastries are impossibly delicious. So, you will be happy to know that if you book a holiday rental in France during the Holiday Season, you will be able to enjoy their version of the Yule Log, the Bûche de Noël. Available (along with many other incredible seasonal treats and year-round classics) in bakeries and supermarkets and restaurants and more, these delicious Christmas cakes are one of the many wonderful traditions that you can enjoy if you spend the Holidays in France.
As a tradition, the Bûche de Noël dates all the way back to the 12th century when, rather than a delightful cake that merely looks like a log, it was actually a large log or tree that was freshly chopped down and placed in the hearth of the household. The family would then gather around and pour wine, oil, and salt over the log, say prayers, and sing Christmas songs before setting it alight, using a splinter that they had saved from the log the year before.
Over time, houses changed and large kitchen fireplaces were eventually replaced by stoves and, by the 19th century, the log reduced in size. This smaller log was decorated with greenery and candles. That same century, the edible Bûche de Noël emerged: a small roll cake or roulade coated in chocolate buttercream icing and made to resemble a log and decorated for Christmas. This tradition really took off and spread to many other countries, becoming a staple Christmas tradition all over the globe.
Of course, many say that the original is usually best so trying the French Bûche de Noël is a must for Christmas-lovers with a sweet tooth and certainly anyone who decides to book a vacation rental in France over the Christmas Holidays!
