Name: Yule Log with a Twist
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 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)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

introduction

This Yule Log with a Twist uses a light chocolate sponge and a fun filling. The cake looks like a log and tastes like a treat. If you want a base idea, see a simple yule log cake guide for more ways to roll a cake. I write this in easy steps so you can make it at home.

why make this recipe

You can make this for a holiday meal or a small party. The cake wins smiles and looks pretty on the table. You can pair it with fresh food or a bright cake, like ideas from a citrus cake idea to add a new flavor at the same meal.

how to make Yule Log with a Twist

This cake uses a thin sponge that you roll while warm. You can pick a filling of Nutella mousse or an eggnog cream. Take care when you fold the egg whites and do not press hard. For good folding and cream tips, read a short note on folding and simple cream tips to help your fills hold shape.

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

For ganache:
1 cup dark chocolate chips
½ cup heavy cream

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, 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:

For Nutella mousse, whip heavy cream until it holds soft peaks, fold in Nutella and vanilla. Chill.
For eggnog cream, whip heavy cream with eggnog, add pudding mix and nutmeg, then chill.
Unroll the cooled cake. Spread a thin, even layer of your filling. Roll the cake back up without the towel.
Heat heavy cream for ganache until just hot, pour over chocolate chips, stir until smooth, and let cool until thick. Spread ganache over the roll. Use a fork to make bark lines.
Chill the log for at least 1 hour before serving.

how to serve Yule Log with a Twist

Slice the log with a sharp knife in clean cuts. Serve each slice on a small plate. You can add a dust of cocoa or a light sprinkle of nutmeg. A simple side like a warm salad can keep the meal fresh; try a harvest salad with apple and pecans if you want a crisp side.

how to store Yule Log with a Twist

Keep the log in a cake box or covered dish in the fridge. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. For longer hold, wrap slices in plastic and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before you eat.

tips to make Yule Log with a Twist

Beat egg whites until soft peaks, not dry.
Fold the dry mix in with slow, gentle moves to keep the cake light.
Roll the cake while it is warm and soft to avoid cracks.
Chill the filled log so the glaze sets well.
For neat look and more ideas on cake finish, see simple cake decorating ideas.

variation (if any)

Use whipped cream and chopped fruit as a light fill.
Add a splash of coffee to the ganache for a deeper taste.
Swap Nutella for peanut butter and a little jam for a new twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the sponge a day ahead?
A: Yes. Wrap it well and keep it in the fridge. Fill and finish the next day.

Q: My cake cracked when I rolled it. What can I do?
A: Trim the cracked part and use a little cream to hide the cut. Roll gently next time while the cake is warm.

Q: Which filling is best for kids?
A: Nutella mousse is sweet and rich and many kids like it.

Q: Can I use a different chocolate for ganache?
A: Yes. Use any dark or milk chocolate you like, keep the same cream ratio.

Q: Do I need instant pudding for the eggnog cream?
A: The pudding helps set the cream. You can skip it but the filling may be softer.

Conclusion

This Yule Log with a Twist gives you a nice show and a warm taste for the table. If you want more ideas and fun twists on this cake, see 10 twists on classic yule log.

Yule Log with a Twist