Description
A rich, moist, and surprisingly easy-to-make Chocolate Yule Log Cake that’s perfect for the holidays. This festive dessert is a stunning centerpiece and a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 4 large eggs, separated (at room temperature)
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
- Chocolate curls or shavings (optional)
- Fresh berries or sprigs of holly (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Separate the eggs. In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with sugar until pale and thick (about 2-3 minutes).
- In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites to stiff peaks. Gently fold into the yolk mixture, alternating with the dry ingredients and milk. Be careful not to deflate the batter.
- Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the sponge springs back when touched.
- While the cake is still warm, turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper and roll the cake (with the towel) into a log. Let cool completely.
- In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Unroll the cooled sponge and spread the filling evenly. Roll it back up tightly and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and milk, mixing until smooth.
- Frost the cake evenly, adding texture with a fork to mimic tree bark. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish as desired.
Notes
If your sponge cracks during rolling, the frosting will cover imperfections beautifully. Use room temperature eggs for a light, airy batter. Chill the filling for better texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 30
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 5
Keywords: Chocolate Yule Log Cake, Holiday Dessert, Festive Baking, Christmas Cake, Easy Yule Log Recipe