Name: Yule Log with a Twist
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large eggs, separated; ½ cup granulated sugar; ⅓ cup all-purpose flour; ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ¼ tsp salt; ½ tsp vanilla extract; ¾ cup heavy cream (for Nutella mousse); ½ cup Nutella; 1 tsp vanilla extract (for Nutella mousse); ¾ cup heavy cream (for eggnog cream); ⅓ cup eggnog; 2 tbsp instant vanilla pudding mix; Pinch of nutmeg; 1 cup dark chocolate chips (for ganache); ½ cup heavy cream (for ganache)

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About this recipe

This cake looks like a log. It tastes rich and festive. You can make it with Nutella mousse or eggnog cream. I show simple steps you can follow. For more ideas on the classic form, see this yule log cake guide.

why make this recipe

You can make this for a holiday meal or a small party. It looks pretty on a plate and it feeds many people. It pairs well with warm soups or stew on a cold day, like a cozy main dish such as comforting chicken soup with potatoes.

how to make Yule Log with a Twist

Work in clear steps. Make the sponge, make the filling you like, and then shape the log. Keep your tools clean and dry. Read each step before you start. If you need a quick side to serve with slices, try a loaf or bread like butternut squash bread with walnuts.

Ingredients :

4 large eggs, separated
½ cup granulated sugar
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ tsp salt
½ tsp vanilla extract

Nutella Mousse:

¾ cup heavy cream
½ cup Nutella
1 tsp vanilla extract

Eggnog Cream:

¾ cup heavy cream
⅓ cup eggnog
2 tbsp instant vanilla pudding mix
Pinch of nutmeg

Ganache:

1 cup dark chocolate chips
½ cup heavy cream

For more recipes to plan your menu, see this beef stew with cheddar herb dumplings.

Directions :

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment and lightly grease.
In one bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. In another bowl, beat yolks with sugar and vanilla until pale.
Gently fold in sifted flour, cocoa, and salt, then fold in the egg whites.
Pour into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and bake for 10–12 minutes.
While warm, invert onto a clean towel dusted with cocoa. Roll the cake with the towel and cool completely.
Prepare your chosen filling.
If you want to add a warm main for the same table, try a spiced dish like chicken shawarma with garlic sauce to serve earlier.

how to serve Yule Log with a Twist

Unroll the cooled cake. Spread a thick layer of your chosen filling. Roll the cake back without the towel. Cover with ganache and use a fork to make bark lines. Chill for 30 minutes to set. Cut into slices and serve on a flat plate. You can add powdered sugar or small holly leaves for a festive look. For a warm side or bread to offer, pair with the loaf linked above.

how to store Yule Log with a Twist

Cover the log with plastic wrap and keep in the fridge. It will stay fresh for 3 days. You can freeze slices in one layer for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before you serve.

tips to make Yule Log with a Twist

Beat egg whites well for a light sponge.
Fold gently to keep air in the cake.
Use a clean towel dusted with cocoa to avoid sticking.
Cool fully before filling to stop the filling from melting.
Warm the ganache a bit to make it smooth when you coat the cake.

variation (if any)

Use Nutella mousse for a nutty, chocolate twist.
Use eggnog cream for a warm spice taste that fits winter.
Add orange zest to the filling for a bright note.
Sprinkle chopped nuts on the ganache for crunch.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the sponge a day ahead?
A: Yes. Wrap the sponge in plastic and keep in the fridge for one day.

Q: Can I use a different filling?
A: Yes. You can use whipped cream, buttercream, or jam.

Q: How do I stop cracks when I roll the cake?
A: Roll while warm with the towel, then unroll and fill after the cake cools.

Q: Can I make the ganache ahead?
A: Yes. Heat the cream and pour on chips, stir, cool, and then chill. Rewarm gently to use.

Q: Is this cake safe if I use raw eggs?
A: The recipe bakes the eggs in the sponge. For mousse, use pasteurized ingredients if you worry about raw egg in fillings.

Conclusion

Try new looks and starts to your log with ideas from a good guide to classic and new styles, like this BBC Good Food list of yule log twists.