Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël): A Festive Holiday Classic

The Yule Log Cake, or Bûche de Noël, is a traditional holiday dessert that’s as delightful to eat as it is to present. This elegant cake features a light and airy sponge cake filled with rich, creamy frosting and rolled into the shape of a log. It’s then covered in a luscious chocolate buttercream frosting to resemble bark, complete with decorative touches like powdered sugar snow, sugared cranberries, or meringue mushrooms.

Inspired by the ancient tradition of burning a yule log for good fortune during the winter solstice, this dessert has become a centerpiece of holiday celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or attending a festive gathering, this stunning cake will steal the show and delight everyone with its combination of flavors and textures.

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Ingredients

For the Sponge Cake:

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	3/4 cup
Unsweetened cocoa powder	1/4 cup
Baking powder	1 teaspoon
Salt	1/4 teaspoon
Large eggs	4, room temperature
Granulated sugar	3/4 cup
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Whole milk	1/4 cup

For the Filling:

Ingredient	Quantity
Heavy cream	1 cup
Powdered sugar	1/4 cup
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon

For the Chocolate Frosting:

Ingredient	Quantity
Unsalted butter	1 cup (2 sticks), softened
Powdered sugar	2 cups
Unsweetened cocoa powder	1/2 cup
Heavy cream	3-4 tablespoons
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Pinch of salt	optional

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Equipment Needed

• Half-sheet pan (approximately 10×15 inches)
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Offset spatula
• Clean kitchen towel
• Fine-mesh sieve

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Sponge Cake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the sheet pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar with a hand mixer on high speed until thick and pale, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture in batches, alternating with the milk, until fully incorporated. Be careful not to deflate the batter.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with an offset spatula. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.

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Step 2: Roll the Cake

1. While the cake bakes, lay a clean kitchen towel on the counter and dust it generously with powdered sugar.
2. As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, loosen the edges with a knife and invert it onto the prepared towel. Peel off the parchment paper.
3. Starting from one short end, gently roll the warm cake and towel together into a log. Let the rolled cake cool completely on a wire rack.

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Step 3: Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
2. Unroll the cooled cake and spread the whipped cream evenly over the surface, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.

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Step 4: Assemble the Yule Log

1. Roll the cake back up tightly without the towel. Transfer the rolled cake seam-side down onto a serving platter.
2. Trim the ends of the cake at an angle to create a clean look. For a decorative touch, cut a 2-inch piece off one end and attach it to the side of the log to resemble a branch.

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Step 5: Make the Chocolate Frosting

1. Beat the softened butter, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder together on low speed until combined. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt, and beat until smooth and fluffy.
2. Spread the frosting evenly over the rolled cake, using an offset spatula to create the appearance of bark.

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Step 6: Decorate the Yule Log

1. Use a fork to create bark-like lines in the frosting. Dust the log with powdered sugar to resemble snow.
2. Add decorative elements like meringue mushrooms, sugared cranberries, or sprigs of rosemary to enhance the festive look.

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Tips and Variations

• Make Ahead: Bake the sponge cake a day ahead, roll it, and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and frost the cake the next day for a stress-free dessert.
• Flavor Twists: Add 1-2 tablespoons of espresso powder to the frosting for a mocha flavor or replace the whipped cream filling with chocolate ganache for extra indulgence.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Meringue Mushrooms: Create edible decorations by piping meringue into mushroom shapes, baking them at low heat, and dusting them with cocoa powder.

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Serving Suggestions

This Yule Log Cake is best served slightly chilled or at room temperature. Pair it with a hot beverage like spiced chai, mulled wine, or a festive peppermint mocha. For an elegant holiday dessert table, surround the cake with sprigs of fresh greenery or small ornaments for a seasonal touch.

Each slice reveals the beautiful swirl of cake and filling, making it as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Garnish slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra flair.

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Pairings

The rich chocolate and light cream flavors of the Yule Log Cake pair beautifully with coffee, espresso, or hot cocoa. For a more festive option, serve it with a glass of sparkling wine or a dessert wine like Tawny Port, which complements the sweet and chocolaty notes.

For non-alcoholic options, try eggnog or a spiced apple cider, both of which enhance the warm, holiday feel of this dessert.

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Storage and Reheating

Store the Yule Log Cake in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap the entire cake or individual slices in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

No reheating is necessary—serve the cake cold or at room temperature for the best texture.

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Nutritional Information

Per Serving (based on 10 servings):

• Calories: 360 kcal
• Fat: 21g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 5g
• Allergens: Contains dairy, gluten, and eggs.

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.

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Conclusion

The Yule Log Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a centerpiece that embodies the magic of the holiday season. With its soft sponge, creamy filling, and rich chocolate frosting, this cake is as delicious as it is festive. Whether you’re celebrating with family or hosting a holiday party, this classic dessert will bring joy and warmth to your table. Try it this year and make it a tradition!

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