Name: Holiday Yule Log Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 4 large eggs (room temperature); 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream (chilled); 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted); Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (for decoration)

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This small cake brings joy to a winter meal. It looks like a log and tastes like chocolate and cream. If you want a full how-to for a classic log, read this yule log cake guide to get more ideas.

why make this recipe

You can make this cake for a family meal or a party. The cake looks festive and the cream keeps it light. People smile when they see the log on the table. If you like soft, simple cakes, try a simple almond cake too.

how to make Holiday Yule Log Cake

Make the sponge first. Mix dry items, then beat in eggs and vanilla. Bake in a flat pan. Roll the warm cake in a towel to set the shape. Whip the cream with sugar and fill the cake. Roll it back and frost the outside. You can add simple lines with a fork to look like bark. For ideas on soft fillings, see this almond ricotta cake recipe.

Ingredients :

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp baking powder
4 large eggs (room temperature)
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 cup heavy cream (chilled)
2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (for decoration)

If you plan to pair the log with small fruit treats, check a quick fruit cake idea like apple crisp mini cheesecakes.

Directions :

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
Beat in eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool slightly, invert onto a towel dusted with powdered sugar, and roll up tightly while warm.
In another bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
Unroll the cake, spread whipped cream filling evenly, then roll back up gently.
Frost the outside with remaining whipped cream or buttercream and decorate with chocolate shavings or sprinkles.

how to serve Holiday Yule Log Cake

Slice the log with a sharp knife. Serve each slice on a small plate. Add a small dust of cocoa or extra shavings on top. Serve with a warm drink or a fruit side like a spiced apple cake, or try a warm coffee cake idea from apple crumble coffee cake.

how to store Holiday Yule Log Cake

Cover the log with plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge. The cream will stay fresh for 2 to 3 days. For one more day, you can keep it in the coldest part of the fridge. Do not leave it at room temp for more than two hours.

tips to make Holiday Yule Log Cake

Use room temp eggs to get a light sponge.
Roll the cake while warm to avoid cracks.
Chill the rolled cake for 30 minutes before you frost it.
Beat the cream just until it forms soft peaks.
Use a serrated knife to cut neat slices.

variation (if any)

You can swap the whipped cream for chocolate buttercream. Add a thin layer of jam or fruit spread under the cream for a tart note. You can also add a bit of coffee to the batter for a mocha flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the cake a day ahead?
A: Yes. Roll it and keep it in the fridge. Fill and frost it the next day for best shape.

Q: Can I freeze the log?
A: Yes. Wrap it well and freeze up to one month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Q: Can I use a different filling?
A: Yes. Use buttercream, mascarpone, or jam. The log works with many fillings.

Q: Do I need a special pan?
A: No. Use a flat jelly roll pan or any rimmed baking sheet that fits the batter.

Conclusion

For another clear and easy yule log recipe you can try, see Easy Chocolate Yule Log Cake | Bûche de Noël Recipe.