Traditional Yule Log Cake Recipe with Chocolate Icing | Classic Christmas Bûche de Noël

BY HOMEFINDSS KITCHEN
Oct 5
2 min read

A touch of elegance to your Christmas dessert table.

By HomeFindss Kitchen

A light chocolate sponge rolled with a creamy filling and topped with rich chocolate icing. This festive holiday dessert symbolizes warmth and togetherness, making it a timeless favourite for Christmas parties, family gatherings, and winter celebrations.

Bake the perfect traditional Christmas fruit cake recipe with fruits and nuts this holiday season! This moist and rich festive fruit cake is packed with dried fruits, candied peel, and crunchy nuts, soaked in warm spices and optional brandy for authentic flavor. A classic holiday fruit cake loved by bakers, ideal for gifting, Christmas parties, or cozy family gatherings. Christmas baking, holiday desserts, festive cake ideas, homemade fruitcake, and the best Christmas cake recipe.

Ingredients for Traditional Yule Log Cake Recipe with Chocolate Icing | Classic Christmas Bûche de Noël

For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:

4 large eggs (separated)

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

1 tsp vanilla extract

For Filling

1 cup heavy whipping cream

2 tbsp powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Icing (Ganache):

1 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips

3/4 cup heavy cream

1 tbsp butter (for shine)

Directions

Preheat and Prepare:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.

Make the Sponge Cake:

In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla until pale and thick. In another bowl, sift flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt together.

In a separate clean bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg yolk mixture, then fold in the egg whites until combined.

Bake the Cake:

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the cake springs back when touched.

Roll the Cake:

While still warm, turn the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper and gently roll the cake with the towel. Let it cool completely while rolled.

Prepare the Filling:

Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

Assemble the Yule Log:

Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread the whipped cream evenly on top. Re-roll the cake gently without the towel.

Prepare the Chocolate Icing:

Heat the heavy cream until just simmering, then pour it over the chocolate chips. Let sit for a minute, then whisk until smooth. Add butter for a glossy finish.

Decorate the Yule Log:

Spread the chocolate ganache over the rolled cake. Use a fork to create bark-like lines for a realistic log effect. Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy finish and decorate with holly leaves or berries if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve chilled or at room temperature with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or fresh berries.
Pair with hot chocolate, mulled wine, or peppermint coffee for the ultimate festive treat.

Why This Recipe Works:

This traditional Yule Log Cake combines light, airy sponge with a creamy filling and rich chocolate ganache, creating the perfect holiday dessert centrepiece. It’s a show-stopper that captures the magic of Christmas in every bite.

With its rich flavours, warming spices, and festive presentation, this traditional Christmas fruit cake is a true holiday classic. Bake it for your Christmas table, share it with loved ones, or give it as a heartfelt homemade gift this season.

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