The Yule Log Cake, also known as Bûche de Noël, is a classic holiday dessert that originates from France. This festive cake is shaped to resemble a wooden log, complete with a rich and creamy filling, and is often decorated with powdered sugar, berries, and meringue mushrooms. Making a Yule Log Cake can be a fun and rewarding holiday tradition, bringing a touch of elegance and festivity to your holiday table. This recipe will guide you through the process, ensuring your Yule Log Cake turns out beautifully and deliciously.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
- Festive and Elegant: The Yule Log Cake is not only delicious but also adds a festive and elegant touch to your holiday celebrations.
- Traditional Recipe: Embrace a classic French tradition that has been enjoyed for generations.
- Customizable Decorations: You can get creative with the decorations, making each cake unique.
- Delicious Combination: The combination of light sponge cake and rich, creamy filling is irresistible.
- Impressive Presentation: This cake is sure to impress your guests with its intricate appearance and delightful taste.
- Fun Activity: Baking and decorating this cake can be a fun holiday activity for the whole family.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for holiday parties and family gatherings.
- Homemade Delight: Enjoy the satisfaction of making a beautiful and delicious dessert from scratch.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
Directions & Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- Make the Cake Batter: 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 the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until well combined.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
- Roll the Cake: While the cake is still warm, turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully roll the cake with the towel and let it cool completely.
- Prepare the Filling: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Fill and Roll the Cake: Unroll the cooled cake and spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the surface. Re-roll the cake without the towel.
- Make the Frosting: Beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and enough milk to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the frosting over the rolled cake, creating a log-like texture with a spatula or fork.
- Decorate: Dust with powdered sugar, add berries, or use meringue mushrooms to decorate your Yule Log Cake.
Nutritional Information
For one serving (1 slice, based on 10 servings):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Potassium: 120mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 29g
- Vitamin A: 12% DV
- Calcium: 4% DV
- Iron: 6% DV
Variations
- Chocolate Filling: Add melted chocolate to the whipped cream for a rich chocolate filling.
- Fruit Filling: Spread a layer of fruit preserves or fresh fruit along with the whipped cream.
- Nutty Flavor: Add finely chopped nuts to the cake batter or the filling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake in advance? Yes, you can make the cake a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and decorate it just before serving.
How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling? Roll the cake while it’s still warm using a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking and cracking.
Can I freeze the Yule Log Cake? Yes, you can freeze the assembled cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
What other decorations can I use? You can use chocolate shavings, edible glitter, or marzipan decorations to enhance the festive look of your Yule Log Cake.
Pro Tips By Elisa
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for the best results.
- Even Batter: Spread the cake batter evenly in the pan to ensure an even bake.
- Chilled Filling: Keep the whipped cream filling chilled until ready to use to maintain its firmness.
- Smooth Frosting: Beat the frosting until smooth and creamy to make spreading easier.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Yule Log Cake with a dusting of powdered sugar and a garnish of fresh berries or meringue mushrooms. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee, making it the perfect dessert for holiday gatherings and celebrations.