introduction

This cake looks like a log and feels like a warm holiday treat. It uses a thin sponge, whipped cream, and a shiny chocolate top. If you want another full guide on the yule log, see this yule log cake post for more tips and photos.

why make this recipe

You make this cake for joy and for fun. You make it to share with friends and family at winter meals. It looks bright on the table and tastes like rich chocolate. If you like layered sweet cakes, also check this caramel crunch layer cake for another party idea.

how to make Classic Yule Log Cake (Christmas Log)

This cake needs careful steps but stays simple. You can work in parts: bake the sponge, make the cream filling, and make the chocolate ganache. Move with calm hands and cool the cake well before you add the filling. For a cold dessert twist, see a related idea like the chocolate caramel ice cream cake.

Ingredients :

4 large eggs
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup unsalted butter

Directions :

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan. Line it with parchment paper.
In a bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until the mix looks thick and pale.
Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Fold them into the egg mix with a light hand. Add the vanilla at the end.
Spread the batter in the pan in one even layer. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the top springs back when touched.
When the cake is done, take it from the oven and let it cool for a moment. Turn it onto a clean towel and roll it up while warm. Let it cool fully rolled.
For the filling, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar until you get stiff peaks. Unroll the cake, spread the whipped cream, and roll it back up gently.
For the ganache, melt the chopped chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in short bursts in the microwave. Stir until smooth. Spread the ganache over the rolled cake.
Use a fork or knife to make bark lines in the ganache to look like wood. Add sugar, small meringues, or holly for more decor if you like.
Chill the cake for a while to set the ganache before you slice and serve.

how to serve Classic Yule Log Cake (Christmas Log)

Slice the cake with a sharp serrated knife. Serve on a flat plate so the log look stays neat. Add a dust of powdered sugar like snow. For a fun match, serve with a warm drink or a light berry sauce and try ideas like this chocolate peanut butter roulade for other plates.

how to store Classic Yule Log Cake (Christmas Log)

Wrap the cake in plastic wrap or put it in a cake box. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you freeze it, wrap it well and thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Do not leave it at room temp for long because of the cream.

tips to make Classic Yule Log Cake (Christmas Log)

Beat the eggs well so the sponge stays light.
Fold the dry mix gently to keep air in the batter.
Roll the cake while warm to stop cracks.
Use warm ganache so it spreads smooth.
For a nutty or rich change, try a peanut butter roll like the peanut butter roulade idea.

variation (if any)

You can change the filling to chocolate mousse, coffee cream, or jam. You can add nuts to the ganache or sprinkle orange zest on the cream. You can also make a smaller or larger pan and change bake time.

FAQs (minimum three FAQ)

Q: Can I make the sponge a day ahead?
A: Yes. Wrap it and keep it in the fridge overnight. Unroll, fill, and roll the next day.

Q: Can I use a store-bought cake roll?
A: Yes. Use it if you are short on time. Fill and cover with ganache the same way.

Q: How do I stop the cake from cracking?
A: Roll the cake while it is warm in a towel. Let it cool rolled. This helps it keep the shape.

Q: Can I use low-fat cream?
A: No. Low-fat cream may not whip well. Use heavy cream for a stable filling.

Q: Can I make the ganache without butter?
A: You can melt chocolate with cream to make ganache. Butter gives shine and smoothness.

Conclusion

This classic yule log cake looks sweet and feels warm. It gives a nice end to a holiday meal and it brings smiles. For another clear step-by-step yule log recipe, see Easy Chocolate Yule Log Cake | Bûche de Noël Recipe.

Classic Yule Log Cake (Christmas Log)