Yule Log Recipe: Create a Stunning Holiday Delight

Name: Yule Log Recipe: Create a Stunning Holiday Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 large eggs; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling); 1/2 cup chocolate ganache (for decoration)

June 1, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Ah, the Yule log! Also known as Bûche de Noël, this delightful dessert has been warming hearts and tables for centuries during the holiday season. Originating from old European customs where families would burn a literal log in their hearth to symbolize warmth and togetherness, the tradition transformed into a deliciously sweet creation that captures the spirit of winter festivities. My first attempt at making a Yule log was a charming disaster, but the joy of rolling the sponge cake and the smell of chocolate wafting through my kitchen brought me back to that cozy holiday atmosphere. With its rich chocolate flavor, luscious whipped cream, and the artistry of its log-like appearance, this Yule log recipe is not just a feast for the eyes, but a cherished holiday treat that brings everyone together around the table.

yule log recipe - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for creating a perfect Yule log, so here’s what you’ll need:

4 large eggs, at room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar, preferably superfine for easier incorporation
1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted to ensure lightness
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted to avoid clumps
1/2 teaspoon baking powder, to help the cake rise
1/4 teaspoon salt, to balance the sweetness
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled to avoid cooking the eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract, for a warm, aromatic flavor
2 cups heavy cream, chilled for optimal whipping
1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted for a smooth filling
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling), to enhance the cream
1/2 cup chocolate ganache, prepared for decoration

Make sure all ingredients are measured accurately and prepped ahead of time for a seamless baking experience. This attention to detail ensures your Yule log will not only taste fabulous but also look stunning on your holiday table!

How to Prepare the Yule Log Recipe

Creating a stunning Yule log is a rewarding holiday project that brings both joy and deliciousness to your table. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process that will guide you through this festive treat.

Prepare the Cake

First things first: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Don’t skip this step! A properly heated oven ensures an even bake. Prepare your 15×10-inch jelly roll pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing for easy removal later. In a mixing bowl, beat the 4 large eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar together on high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. This aeration is crucial for a light sponge! Sift together your dry ingredients—1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the egg and sugar mixture, being careful not to deflate it. Finally, gently incorporate 1/2 cup of melted butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until just combined.

Roll and Cool the Cake

Once your batter is ready, pour it into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched. While the cake is baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel dusted generously with powdered sugar. This will prevent the cake from sticking. When the cake is done, remove it from the oven and immediately invert it onto the prepared towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper. Here’s the fun part: starting from one end, roll the cake up with the towel, making sure to roll it tightly but gently to maintain its shape. Let it cool completely in this rolled position, which can take about 30 minutes.

Make the Whipped Cream Filling

While your cake cools, it’s time to whip up the filling! In a chilled mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whip the mixture on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. This step is vital; you want that cream thick enough to hold its shape when spread on the cake. Feel free to get creative here—consider adding a splash of peppermint extract or a hint of orange zest for a festive twist!

Assemble the Yule Log

Once your cake is cool, gently unroll it. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream filling across the surface, leaving about an inch around the edges for easy rolling. Now, carefully roll the cake back up, this time without the towel. Don’t worry if it cracks a little—that’s part of the charm! Trim the ends of the log for a clean finish and place it seam-side down on your serving platter. This will be the base of your Yule log.

Decorate with Chocolate Ganache

To create the bark-like texture that makes your Yule log truly special, you’ll need chocolate ganache. Prepare this by heating 1/2 cup of heavy cream until it’s just about to boil, then pour it over 1/2 cup of chopped chocolate or chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and glossy. Allow it to cool slightly before using it to cover the log. Use a spatula to spread the ganache over the entire surface, allowing it to drip down the sides. For that rustic bark effect, you can use a fork to create lines and grooves. Remember, patience is key! Let the ganache set in the fridge for about an hour before serving. This will ensure it holds its shape beautifully.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional profile of your Yule log can help you enjoy this festive treat with a bit of mindfulness. Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving (1 slice) of the Yule log recipe:

Calories: 350
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 28g
Protein: 4g

These values are approximate and can vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy this traditional holiday dessert while keeping in mind its delightful richness!

FAQ Section

As you embark on your Yule log journey, you may have some questions swirling in your mind. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with answers to common queries that pop up when making this festive dessert!

Can I make this Yule log ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Yule log a day or two in advance. Just assemble the cake and cover it tightly with plastic wrap after decorating it with ganache. Store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving, as the flavors really shine that way!

What are some common variations of the Yule log recipe?

There are so many delightful twists you can put on your Yule log! For instance, consider using flavored whipped cream like peppermint or mocha instead of plain. You could also swap the chocolate ganache for a rich caramel sauce or even a fruit preserves layer between the sponge and cream for a unique taste. The sky’s the limit!

How do I prevent my Yule log from cracking?

Cracking can happen, but there are ways to minimize it! Make sure to roll the cake while it’s still warm and use a towel dusted with powdered sugar. This helps maintain moisture and makes it more pliable. If it does crack a bit, don’t stress! Just use your ganache to cover any imperfections—it’ll look rustic and charming!

Can I freeze the Yule log?

Yes, you can freeze your Yule log! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to a month. When you’re ready to serve, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reapply any ganache or decorations after thawing for the best presentation!

What’s the best way to slice the Yule log for serving?

For clean slices, use a serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion. Wiping the knife with a warm, damp cloth between cuts can help create smooth edges, making your Yule log look even more festive on the serving platter!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A Classic Holiday Dessert: The Yule log is a timeless treat that brings nostalgic holiday flavors to your table, making it a beloved staple for festive gatherings.
Visual Appeal: With its charming log-like appearance, this dessert is not just delicious; it’s a stunning centerpiece that will impress your guests and spark conversations.
Endless Versatility: Feel free to get creative! This recipe allows for various fillings and flavorings, ensuring you can tailor it to suit different tastes, from chocolate to fruit-infused delights.
Perfect for Sharing: The generous size of the Yule log makes it ideal for serving a crowd, encouraging everyone to gather around and indulge in this festive delight together.
Fun to Make: Rolling the sponge cake and decorating it offers a satisfying hands-on experience, making the baking process enjoyable and rewarding, especially when done with family or friends.

Tips for Success

Creating a stunning Yule log is all about the details! Follow these pro tips to ensure your dessert turns out beautifully every time:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your eggs are fresh and at room temperature. This helps with the aeration process when beating them with sugar, leading to a fluffier sponge. Fresh butter and high-quality cocoa powder also make a noticeable difference in flavor!
Pay Attention to Mixing: When folding in the dry ingredients, be gentle! The goal is to maintain as much air in the batter as possible. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, which is not what we want for a Yule log.
Be Precise with Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cake as it bakes. Since ovens can vary, check for doneness a minute or two early. The cake should spring back when gently pressed in the center.
Cool Properly: Letting the cake cool in its rolled form is key to preventing cracks. It also helps set the shape, so don’t rush this step! A cooling rack can help air circulate around the cake as it cools.
Chill Your Cream: For the best whipped cream, ensure your heavy cream is very cold before whipping. A chilled bowl and beaters also help achieve those lovely stiff peaks faster.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to personalize your Yule log! Try adding flavored extracts to the whipped cream filling—like almond or peppermint—or even fold in some crushed candy canes for a festive twist.
Practice Your Ganache Technique: When making the chocolate ganache, allow it to cool slightly before spreading it on the log. This ensures it won’t melt the filling underneath and helps create that beautiful bark texture.
Presentation Matters: For a stunning finish, consider using edible decorations like fresh berries, meringue mushrooms, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for that snowy effect. These little touches elevate your Yule log from delicious to show-stopping!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this festive classic. Happy baking!

Variations

While the classic Yule log recipe is delicious as is, there’s so much room for creativity! Here are some delightful twists and variations to personalize your Yule log and make it uniquely yours:

Flavored Whipped Cream Fillings

Why not switch up the filling? Instead of the traditional vanilla, consider whipping in flavors like:

Peppermint: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Chocolate: Fold in some cocoa powder or melted chocolate into the whipped cream for a double chocolate experience!
Fruit Infusions: Incorporate fruit purees, like raspberry or passion fruit, into your whipped cream for a fruity surprise that balances the richness of the chocolate.

Alternative Ganache Toppings

Instead of chocolate ganache, you can experiment with other toppings:

Caramel Sauce: Drizzle or spread a rich caramel sauce over the log for a decadent touch. It pairs beautifully with the chocolate sponge.
White Chocolate Ganache: For a lighter look, try using white chocolate ganache. Just heat the cream and pour it over white chocolate chips for a dreamy finish.
Fruit Glaze: A glaze made from reduced fruit juice or berries can add a lovely color and tartness that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate.

Decorative Touches

When it comes to decoration, don’t hold back! Here are some fun ideas:

Meringue Mushrooms: These whimsical creations add a touch of elegance and charm. Simply pipe meringue into mushroom shapes and bake until crisp.
Fresh Berries: Top your Yule log with fresh cranberries or raspberries for a pop of color and a hint of natural sweetness.
Powdered Sugar Snow: A dusting of powdered sugar can mimic a fresh snowfall, giving your Yule log a magical, festive look.
Edible Gold or Silver Leaf: For a truly luxurious touch, consider adding some edible metallic leaf to elevate your dessert’s presentation.

These variations not only make your Yule log unique but also allow you to tailor it to your family’s tastes and holiday traditions. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this festive dessert your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After all the hard work you’ve put into your Yule log, you’ll want to store any leftovers properly to keep it as delicious as the day you baked it!

Once your Yule log has been decorated with ganache, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. If you want to ensure maximum freshness, you can also wrap it in aluminum foil after the plastic wrap. This way, you’ll keep that rich flavor intact!

Store your wrapped Yule log in the refrigerator, where it can last for about 3 to 5 days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped, as exposure to air can lead to freezer burn. When stored properly, the Yule log can be frozen for up to a month.

When you’re ready to serve your Yule log, it’s best to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight if you’ve frozen it. This gentle thawing method preserves the texture and flavor. If you’ve kept it in the fridge, simply take it out and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to soften slightly, enhancing the overall taste.

For serving, use a serrated knife for clean cuts, and consider giving it a light dusting of powdered sugar or adding a few fresh berries for that extra festive touch. Enjoy your delicious Yule log and the joy it brings to your holiday gatherings!

For more information on traditional holiday desserts, you can visit Food Network’s Holiday Desserts.

You might also like it

Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies for Perfect Texture

Vegan Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookies That Will Dazzle You

Chocolate Brownie Trifle: 8 Layers of Pure Joy

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.