This festive dessert is a rolled sponge cake filled with cream and decorated to look like a log, symbolizing the yule logs burned in hearths long ago. It’s the perfect showstopper for a Christmas celebration!
Did You Know?
The Yule Log dessert originated in 19th-century France as a culinary representation of the traditional Yule log burned during the winter solstice. Today, it’s a worldwide Christmas favorite, symbolizing warmth and light.
Yield
1 Yule Log (serves 8–10)
Ingredients
Sponge Cake
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 large eggs (room temperature)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup whole milk
Filling
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Ganache Frosting
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup heavy cream
Decoration (Optional)
Powdered sugar (for a snowy effect)
Fresh holly leaves (non-edible for garnish)
Cranberries for garnish
Chocolate shavings
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar on high speed for 4–5 minutes, until thick and pale. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture in three additions, alternating with the milk. Be careful not to deflate the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched lightly.
Step 2: Roll the Cake
- While the cake is still warm, turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper.
- Roll the cake tightly (with the towel inside) from the short end. Let it cool completely in this shape.
Step 3: Make the Filling
- Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Step 4: Assemble the Yule Log
- Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread the whipped cream filling evenly, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
- Roll the cake back up tightly (without the towel) and place it seam-side down on a serving platter. Chill for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Prepare the Ganache Frosting
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering. Pour it over the dark chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Let the ganache cool slightly until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
Step 6: Decorate the Yule Log
- Spread the ganache evenly over the rolled cake. Use a fork to create bark-like textures.
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar for a snowy effect and garnish with holly leaves, berries, or chocolate shavings.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the Yule Log and serve at room temperature.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
Calories: 270, Protein: 5g, Carbohydrates: 31g, Fiber: 2g, Net Carbohydrates: 29g, Fat: 14g, Saturated Fat: 8g, Cholesterol: 110mg, Sodium: 80mg, Sugars: 22g, Glycemic Index: Medium
How This Yule Log Will Look and Taste
This Yule Log boasts a rich, chocolatey sponge rolled with fluffy whipped cream and coated in a glossy ganache frosting. The bark-like texture, snowy powdered sugar, and festive decorations make it a stunning centerpiece for your Christmas table.
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Use Dutch-process cocoa for a deeper chocolate flavor and darker cake color.
- Don’t overbake the sponge; a dry cake may crack when rolled.
- If the cake cracks slightly while rolling, cover imperfections with extra ganache or decorations.
- Make the cake a day ahead and refrigerate for improved flavor and easier slicing.
- Use leftover ganache for drizzling on ice cream or cookies.
- Substitute the filling with chocolate mousse or flavored buttercream for a richer variation.
- Freeze the unassembled sponge for up to 1 month for advance preparation.
- Save money by making homemade edible decorations like sugared cranberries.
- For an alcohol-infused log, brush the sponge with rum or coffee liqueur before spreading the filling.
- Pair with a hot cup of cocoa or mulled wine for the ultimate holiday experience.
Let’s Learn About Ganache Frosting
Ganache is a luxurious mixture of chocolate and cream that creates a smooth, glossy frosting. It’s incredibly versatile and can be used as a filling, glaze, or frosting. The key to a perfect ganache is using high-quality chocolate and allowing it to cool to the right consistency before applying. For added flavor, try infusing the cream with orange zest, peppermint, or coffee before mixing.