The Best Homemade Yule Log Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade yule log recipe brings the magic of the holidays right to your kitchen, and it’s easier than you might think. You’ll fall in love with the rich chocolate flavor and festive look that’s perfect for sharing. First, it’s customizable—add your favorite fillings or decorations to make it uniquely yours. Second, the soft, moist sponge cake rolls beautifully without cracking, even for beginners. Finally, it’s a showstopper dessert that will impress your family and friends, making it the perfect centerpiece for any holiday celebration.
Recipe
The Yule Log, or Bûche de Noël, is a traditional dessert enjoyed during the Christmas season. This roll cake resembles a log and is often decorated to look like bark. This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious and festive Yule Log from scratch.
Ingredients:
For the sponge cake:
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the chocolate ganache:
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until thick and pale.
- Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold into the egg mixture.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
- While still hot, invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper. Roll the cake and towel together from the short end. Let cool completely.
- For the filling, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Unroll the cake, spread the whipped cream evenly, and roll it back up without the towel. Place seam-side down on a serving platter.
- For the ganache, heat the cream until steaming, then pour over the chopped chocolate. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Spread the ganache over the cake, using a fork to create bark-like textures. Chill until set.
Notes:
- Make certain the cake is rolled while warm to prevent cracking.
- Decorate with meringue mushrooms or powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
Equipment:
- 10×15 inch jelly roll pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Offset spatula
Time:
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: French
Serving: Serves 8-10
Nutrition
A Yule log, or Bûche de Noël, is a traditional dessert often enjoyed during the holiday season. Below is the nutritional information per serving.
| Nutrition | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Total Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Cholesterol | 120 mg |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 60 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 45 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade Yule log with rich hot chocolate or spiced cider—they just feel festive. For dessert pairings, I often go with peppermint bark or gingerbread cookies, as they add a nice contrast. These combinations make the whole experience feel cozy and complete.
Complementary Beverages
When pairing drinks with your homemade Yule log, I find it’s best to stick with flavors that complement its rich chocolate and creamy frosting. A hot cup of coffee, whether black or with a splash of cream, enhances the dessert’s warmth. For something cooler, try a glass of milk—it balances the sweetness perfectly. If you’re feeling fancy, a dessert wine like port or a spiced mulled wine adds a festive touch. Sparkling cider or a creamy hot chocolate also work wonders. The key is to choose drinks that don’t overpower the Yule log but instead let its flavors shine. Cheers!
Seasonal Dessert Pairings
Pairing your Yule log with complementary desserts can turn a single treat into a full dessert spread that’s perfect for sharing. I love adding a plate of spiced gingerbread cookies—their warmth balances the Yule log’s rich chocolate. A bowl of vanilla bean ice cream is also a must—its cool creaminess pairs perfectly with the log’s spongy texture. For a touch of elegance, I’ll include poached pears drizzled with caramel. And don’t forget some festive candied pecans for a crunchy contrast. These pairings not only enhance the flavors but also make the dessert table feel extra special.
