When it comes to holiday desserts, nothing captures the magic of Christmas quite like a Chocolate Yule Log. Known as “Bûche de Noël” in French tradition, this festive cake roll is a true centerpiece at any holiday table. With its rich chocolate sponge, luscious cream filling, and beautifully decorated log-like exterior, the Yule Log is more than just dessert—it’s a symbol of togetherness, tradition, and the sweet joy of the season.
Whether you’re baking for your family, hosting a Christmas dinner party, or planning your holiday dessert spread, this Chocolate Yule Log recipe will impress everyone with its elegant look and decadent taste.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know: the detailed recipe, ingredients, tools, step-by-step instructions, tips for perfection, and serving suggestions to make your Yule Log the highlight of your Christmas celebration.
Ingredients for Chocolate Yule Log
To create a moist and festive Chocolate Yule Log, gather the following ingredients:
For the Sponge Cake
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
the Filling
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (chilled)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
the Chocolate Ganache Frosting
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces dark or semi-sweet chocolate (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for shine)
Decoration
- Powdered sugar (for snow effect)
- Fresh berries (cranberries, raspberries, or strawberries)
- Small sprigs of rosemary or mint leaves (to resemble pine)
- Chocolate shavings or curls
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Mixing bowls (various sizes)
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Sifter for dry ingredients
- Spatula
- Baking sheet (10×15 inch jelly roll pan)
- Parchment paper
- Clean kitchen towel
- Wire cooling rack
- Offset spatula (for frosting)
- Serrated knife (for trimming ends)
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
1: Prepare the Sponge Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line the jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, beat eggs and sugar until light, fluffy, and tripled in volume (about 5–6 minutes).
- Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold into egg mixture.
- Add vanilla extract and mix until just combined.
- Spread batter evenly in prepared pan.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until cake springs back when touched.
2: Roll the Cake
- While still warm, place a clean kitchen towel on the counter and dust with cocoa powder.
- Turn the baked cake onto the towel, peel off parchment paper.
- Roll the cake (with the towel) starting from the short end. Allow to cool completely in rolled form.
3: Make the Filling
- Beat chilled cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Once the cake is cooled, carefully unroll it.
- Spread whipped cream evenly over the surface.
- Re-roll cake gently, without the towel, into a tight log.
4: Prepare Chocolate Ganache
- Heat cream in a saucepan until just simmering.
- Pour over chopped chocolate, let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Stir in butter for glossy finish. Let cool slightly until spreadable.
5: Frost and Decorate
- Cover cake with ganache using an offset spatula.
- Use a fork to create bark-like texture.
- Dust with powdered sugar for snow effect.
- Garnish with berries, rosemary, or chocolate curls.
Helpful Tips for Success
- Prevent Cracks: Roll the cake while warm—it’s more flexible.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaked sponge will dry out and crack when rolling.
- Customize Filling: Try mascarpone, buttercream, or chocolate mousse for variety.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating for at least 1–2 hours makes slicing easier.
- Make Ahead: The Yule Log can be made a day in advance and stored covered in the fridge.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approx. 1/12 of log)
- Calories: 280
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 22 g
(Values vary depending on filling and decorations used.)
Serving Suggestions
The Chocolate Yule Log is a versatile dessert that pairs beautifully with classic Christmas meals. Serve it alongside:
- Roasted turkey or ham dinner
- Festive side dishes like Green Bean Casserole
- Mulled wine, hot cocoa, or spiced cider
- Holiday cookie platters for dessert buffets
You can even serve smaller slices as part of a Christmas afternoon tea or brunch.
Christmas Tradition Behind the Yule Log
The Chocolate Yule Log has a rich history. It originates from the French “Bûche de Noël,” inspired by the tradition of burning a large wooden log during winter solstice festivals, symbolizing good fortune for the coming year. Over time, the log was transformed into a sweet, edible cake to honor this tradition during Christmas feasts.
Today, it’s a staple across Europe and North America, cherished for both its symbolism and its irresistible flavor.
Variations of Chocolate Yule Log
- Classic Buttercream Yule Log – Use chocolate buttercream frosting instead of ganache.
- White Chocolate Yule Log – Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate for a snowy appearance.
- Vegan Yule Log – Use plant-based cream, dairy-free chocolate, and egg substitutes.
- Gluten-Free Yule Log – Replace flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
- Mini Yule Logs – Create individual rolled cakes for personal servings at parties.
Why This Chocolate Yule Log is Perfect for Christmas
This dessert is:
- Festive: Its log-like appearance captures the rustic charm of Christmas.
- Show-Stopping: A centerpiece dessert that impresses visually and tastes divine.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy both the look and flavor.
- Tradition-Rich: Connects modern celebrations with historic Christmas customs.
Conclusion
If you’re planning your holiday menu and want a dessert that’s both traditional and unforgettable, the Chocolate Yule Log is the answer. With its soft sponge, creamy filling, and rich chocolate ganache, it embodies the flavors and spirit of Christmas.
Make it the centerpiece of your holiday table this year, and your guests will remember it long after the decorations are put away. Celebrate tradition, family, and joy with every slice of this timeless festive cake.
