Creating your Traditional Chocolate Yule Log is an enjoyable process. Follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and grease it lightly.

2. Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes thick and pale. This should take about 5 minutes. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, and gently fold using a spatula until just combined.

3. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

4. Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. After that, carefully invert it onto a clean kitchen towel sprinkled with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Roll the cake up in the towel gently and allow it to cool completely.

5. Prepare the Filling and Ganache: While the cake cools, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until soft peaks form. For the ganache, heat ½ cup of heavy cream until just simmering, then pour it over the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Let it sit for a couple of minutes before stirring until smooth.

6. Assemble the Yule Log: Unroll the cooled cake gently and spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the surface. Carefully roll the cake back up, starting from the short side. Place the roll seam-side down on a serving platter.

7. Finish with Ganache: Pour the ganache over the rolled cake, covering it completely. You can use a spatula to create a bark-like texture to mimic a log.

8. Decorate: Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or add festive decorations to enhance the presentation.