Chocolate Peppermint Log

1. Stage

Place egg whites in a small bowl; let stand at room temperature 30 minutes.

2. Stage

Meanwhile, preheat oven to 375°. Line bottom of a 15x10x1-in. baking pan with parchment. Sift flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt twice.

3. Stage

In a large bowl, beat egg yolks until slightly thickened. Gradually add 1/3 cup sugar, beating on high speed until thick and lemon-colored. Beat in water and vanilla. Fold in flour mixture (batter will be very thick).

4. Stage

With clean beaters, beat egg whites on medium until soft peaks form. Gradually add remaining sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on high after each addition until sugar is dissolved. Continue beating until soft glossy peaks form. Fold a fourth of the whites into batter, then fold in remaining whites. Transfer to prepared pan, spreading evenly.

5. Stage

Bake 12-15 minutes or until top springs back when lightly touched. Cool 5 minutes. Invert onto a kitchen towel dusted with cocoa. Gently peel off paper. Roll up cake in the towel jelly-roll style, starting with a short side. Cool completely on a wire rack.

6. Stage

For filling, in a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping and peppermint candies.

7. Stage

Unroll cake; spread filling over cake to within 1/2 in. of edges. Roll up again, without towel. Place on a platter, seam side down. Refrigerate, covered, until cold.

8. Stage

For glaze, in a small saucepan, melt butter. Whisk in cocoa and water until blended. Bring to a boil. Remove from heat. Whisk in confectioners' sugar and vanilla until smooth. Cool slightly.

9. Stage

Spread glaze over cake. Sprinkle with peppermint candies. Refrigerate until set, about 10 minutes.