Follow these simple steps to create your delightful Bûches de Noël:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until thick and pale. This will take about 5 minutes.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
4. Mix Together: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, being careful not to deflate the batter.
5. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
6. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, invert it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar.
8. Roll the Cake: While still warm, roll the cake up with the towel, starting from the short end. Allow it to cool completely in this shape.
9. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and optional coffee granules until soft peaks form.
10. Unroll the Cake: Once the cake is cool, gently unroll it and spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the surface.
11. Re-roll the Cake: Carefully roll the cake back up without the towel, forming a log shape.
12. Chill: Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
13. Frost the Cake: Remove the cake from the fridge, unwrap it, and spread additional whipped cream over the outside.
14. Decorate: Use a fork to create bark-like patterns, and garnish with chocolate shavings or festive decorations to enhance the look.

These steps will guide you in creating a stunning Bûche de Noël that is sure to impress your guests!