Name: Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël) – Festive Chocolate Sponge Roll with Creamy Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: PT-489932H18M52S
Cuisine: French-Inspired
Ingredients: ¾ cup all-purpose flour; ¼ cup cocoa powder; ¾ cup sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; 1 cup whipped cream or buttercream; Chocolate frosting (approx. 1 cup); Powdered sugar for dusting

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If you’re ready to impress your holiday guests with a showstopper that tastes just as delightful as it looks, this Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël) – Festive Chocolate Sponge Roll with Creamy Frosting Recipe is exactly what you need. This classic Christmas dessert features a tender, airy chocolate sponge lovingly rolled around a luscious creamy filling, all wrapped in a silky chocolate frosting that mimics a real wooden log. It’s festive, fun to make, and delivers that perfect balance of rich chocolate flavor and light, fluffy texture that will earn you all the compliments at your holiday table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a chocolate roll cake on a white plate with a white marbled background. The cake has four visible layers: a dark brown chocolate sponge cake rolled with a smooth, light brown chocolate cream filling. The outer layer is covered with a textured light brown chocolate frosting. On top, there is a cluster of bright red cherries with a light dusting of powdered sugar. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with this Yule Log Cake feels approachable because the ingredients are simple and straightforward. Each element plays a pivotal role in crafting the cake’s soft crumb, distinctive chocolate flavor, and irresistible creaminess.

¾ cup flour: Provides the structure while keeping the sponge light and tender.
¼ cup cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate richness and lovely dark color.
¾ cup sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a delicate crumb.
3 eggs: The magic ingredient that gives the sponge lift and moisture.
1 tsp vanilla: Enhances the chocolate, rounding out the flavor beautifully.
½ tsp baking powder: Keeps the cake airy and soft.
¼ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
1 cup whipped cream or buttercream: For the luscious filling that melts in your mouth.
Chocolate frosting: Creates the signature bark-like exterior and adds indulgent chocolate taste.
Powdered sugar: For a festive dusting that resembles fresh snow.

How to Make Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël) – Festive Chocolate Sponge Roll with Creamy Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Sponge

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Whisk together the dry ingredients including flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and sugar to ensure even mixing. Beat the eggs and vanilla until light and fluffy before gently folding in the dry ingredients. Pour the batter into a jelly roll pan lined with parchment paper to guarantee an easy removal later. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the sponge just springs back to touch and a toothpick comes out clean. This delicate yet sturdy base is the heart of your cake.

Step 2: Roll the Cake While Warm

Once the cake is out of the oven, immediately flip it onto a clean kitchen towel sprinkled with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper, then gently roll the cake up in the towel from the short end. Rolling while warm helps ‘train’ the sponge to hold its shape without cracking during the final assembly. Let it cool completely in this rolled-up state to maintain the perfect bend for when you add filling.

Step 3: Unroll and Add the Creamy Filling

After the sponge has cooled, unroll it slowly. Spread an even layer of whipped cream or buttercream over the entire surface—don’t be shy here, as the filling creates the moist, luscious interior that contrasts beautifully with the sponge. Be careful not to apply too much on the edges to avoid overflow when re-rolling.

Step 4: Roll Again and Frost

With filling in place, gently roll the cake back up without the towel. Place your rolled cake seam-side down on a serving platter for stability. Next, cover it generously with your chocolate frosting. This frosting not only intensifies the chocolate experience but also helps you create the look of tree bark. Using a fork or spatula, create bark-like textures that bring the dessert to life in the most charming way.

Step 5: Decorate Like a Festive Log

Finish off the look by dusting the Yule Log Cake with powdered sugar to mimic fresh snow. You can get creative with extra decorations such as holly leaves, berries, or even tiny meringue mushrooms to elevate the festive charm and make it truly irresistible on your holiday dessert table.

How to Serve Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël) – Festive Chocolate Sponge Roll with Creamy Frosting Recipe

A chocolate log cake sits on white parchment paper, with a thick, rough layer of dark chocolate frosting covering all sides to mimic tree bark. The cake is shaped like a log with two sections joined at a slight angle, showing the moist, rich chocolate cake inside where a piece is missing from the front left. The frosting has textured lines to imitate wood grain running horizontally along the log. Light white powdered sugar is dusted over the top to suggest a light snow effect. Decorative elements include two small green holly leaves with red berries placed on the top and side, a golden

Garnishes

The beauty of this Yule Log Cake is how easily it transforms with the right garnishes. Fresh holly leaves (edible or decorative), sugared cranberries, or sprigs of rosemary add natural color and a fragrant touch. If you want to channel a fairytale vibe, edible gold dust or small meringue mushrooms create a whimsical woodland effect. These little details make the dessert feel as special as the occasion itself.

Side Dishes

Pairing this cake with complementary sides enhances the overall experience. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream works wonderfully to balance the chocolate intensity. For grown-up guests, a drizzle of raspberry coulis or a glass of port wine adds sophistication and contrasts the rich flavors elegantly.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation is key to making this festive sponge roll stand out. Serve it on a rustic wooden board for that authentic woodland vibe, or choose a sleek white platter to highlight the chocolate’s rich hues. Slicing the cake with a sharp serrated knife while chilled ensures clean cuts, allowing each slice to reveal those beautiful spiral layers inside. Adding a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving keeps it looking fresh and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, store your Yule Log Cake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep moisture locked in. Refrigeration is key to preserving both the creamy filling and chocolate frosting. Properly stored, it should stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, giving you the flexibility to prepare ahead of time or enjoy leftovers after the festivities.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully, making it a convenient holiday favorite. Wrap the entire log tightly in plastic wrap and then again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best texture and flavor. Note that while the sponge and filling hold up well, the frosting’s consistency might soften slightly but still taste fabulous.

Reheating

Since Yule Log Cake is traditionally served chilled or at room temperature, reheating is generally not recommended as it could compromise the texture of the sponge and frosting. Instead, allow the cake to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes after refrigeration to soften up slightly before slicing and serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different filling instead of whipped cream or buttercream?

Absolutely! You can experiment with mascarpone cheese, cream cheese frosting, or even a flavored ganache as filling depending on your preference. Just keep in mind the consistency should be spreadable but not too runny to avoid leaks when rolling.

What if my cake cracks when rolling?

If cracks appear, don’t panic. Rolling the sponge while it’s warm helps prevent this, but minor cracks are normal. You can patch them up with frosting once rolled or cover them with decorative garnishes to maintain the rustic log look.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking. The texture might vary slightly, but with the right blend, you can still achieve a lovely soft sponge.

How far in advance can I make the Yule Log Cake?

You can assemble and frost the cake up to two days in advance. Just store it well-covered in the fridge. This makes it an excellent option for advanced holiday prep, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Is this Yule Log suitable for beginners?

Definitely! The recipe’s straightforward steps and simple ingredients make it approachable even for novice bakers. Just take your time with the rolling stage, and you’ll have a stunning festive dessert that feels like a professional creation.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about serving a Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël) – Festive Chocolate Sponge Roll with Creamy Frosting Recipe during the holiday season, and now that you have this delicious recipe in your hands, it’s time to bring that cozy charm to your very own table. Whether it’s your first time or you’re rekindling a beloved tradition, making this dessert is a joyous experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and the irresistible scent of chocolate. So grab your apron, invite some holiday cheer, and enjoy every delightful bite of this festive classic!