Classic Chocolate Yule Log (Bûche de Noël)

Right then, let's dive headfirst into the world of the yule log recipe , shall we? honestly, who doesn't love a good yule roll cake at christmas? my nan used to make one every year, and even though it wasn't always the prettiest, it tasted like christmas magic.

I wanna capture that feeling right here!

What's the Big Deal About Yule Log Christmas Cake ?

A traditional yule log cake – or bûche de noël, if you're feeling fancy – is more than just a dessert.

It's a festive centrepiece! this particular recipe draws on the classic chocolate roulade, all earthy, rich chocolate flavour. we're talking about a dark chocolate yule log that's guaranteed to wow.

Think of it as a sweet representation of burning the yule log to cleanse and welcome the new year, a tradition dating back centuries.

This recipe will only take about 2 hours start to finish (including chilling) – not bad for a bit of christmas history on your plate! this yuletide cake makes around 8-10 servings, perfect for a family gathering.

Classic Chocolate Yule Log (Bûche de Noël) Recipe Card

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Preparation time:45 Mins

Cooking time:20 Mins

Servings:8-10 servings

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs, separated
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons rum or coffee liqueur (optional)
• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Chocolate shavings
• Meringue mushrooms
• Fresh cranberries
• Rosemary sprigs

Instructions:

• Line the baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it overhangs the sides slightly for easy removal.
• Whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the oil and milk. Stir in vanilla extract. In a clean bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the chocolate batter.
• Spread the batter evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
• Immediately invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Gently peel away the parchment paper. Roll the cake up tightly in the towel, starting from one of the short ends. Let it cool completely.
• Beat the softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with the milk. Stir in vanilla extract and rum (if using). Beat until smooth and creamy.
• Unroll the cooled cake. Spread a generous layer of chocolate buttercream evenly over the cake. Re-roll the cake tightly.
• Trim the ends of the log with a serrated knife. Frost the entire log with the remaining buttercream, creating a rough, bark-like texture with an offset spatula. Decorate with powdered sugar, chocolate shavings, meringue mushrooms, cranberries, and rosemary sprigs.
• Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:500

Fat:30g

Fiber:2g

Recipe Info

Category:Dessert

Cuisine:British

Why This Yule Log Easy Recipe is Worth It

Okay, let's be real: christmas can be a bit much. that's where chocolate comes in! the rich cocoa in this cake is a mood booster and might improve cognitive function, plus the happiness you will feel by the praises of your family and friends will be so high that you may start floating through the house.

This best yule log is perfect for christmas dinner, boxing day treats, or even just a cosy night in.

But what makes this traditional yule log cake recipe special? well, it's the perfect balance of impressive and achievable. it's not too difficult, but it's definitely a showstopper.

And who knows, maybe aunt mildred will even crack a smile. let's get started on the ingredients list...

Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to whip up this christmas chocolate yule log . honestly, gathering the ingredients is half the fun! it feels like a treasure hunt before the baking begins.

I always get a little giddy.

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients

First, for the sponge cake, you'll need 4 large eggs, separated – that's about 200g total. quality eggs make a difference, so grab the freshest ones you can.

You'll also need ¾ cup (150g) of granulated sugar, ½ cup (65g) all-purpose flour, and ¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder.

Don't forget 1 tbsp (15ml) each of vegetable oil and milk, plus ½ tsp (2.5ml) vanilla extract. and a pinch of salt, of course!

Then, for that dreamy chocolate buttercream, grab 1 cup (2 sticks, or 225g) of unsalted butter – it needs to be softened.

This is key! plus, 3 cups (360g) of powdered sugar, ½ cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder, ¼ cup (60ml) milk, and 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract.

If you're feeling frisky, add 2 tablespoons (30ml) of rum or coffee liqueur. i sometimes sneak in a splash of baileys.

Don't tell anyone.

Seasoning Notes

Okay, so the star of the show here is the cocoa powder. for a really rich, dark dark chocolate yule log , go for a high-quality dutch-processed cocoa.

The difference is noticeable! vanilla is a must for rounding out the chocolate flavour. and if you're adding rum or coffee liqueur, it'll give your yuletide cake that extra "oomph.

" if you don't have rum, you can substitute with coffee, bourbon or brandy.

Equipment Needed

You don't need a fancy kitchen to nail this yule log recipe . the essentials are a baking sheet (around 10x15 inches ), parchment paper (trust me, you need this!), a mixer, mixing bowls, an offset spatula, and a serrated knife.

If you don't have an offset spatula, the back of a spoon will do. a rolling pin can help shape the parchment, but it's not essential.

And piping bags are optional for decorating if you want to get really fancy with your yule roll cake . i sometimes just use a ziplock bag with the corner snipped off.

Shhh! want a traditional yule log cake recipe ? follow those steps.

Let me know if you have all the bits ready. Are you ready to make a Best Yule Log ? I'm excited to hear about the Yule Log Easy Recipe adventure!

Alright, let's get our bake on with this Classic Chocolate Yule Log Recipe . Honestly, who doesn't love a good Yule Roll Cake at Christmas? It’s like a hug in cake form.

Prep Like a Pro for Yule Tide

First, let's talk prep. Mise en place , darling. Get everything measured out. It stops you from having that "Oh my gosh, I'm missing cocoa!" moment mid-bake.

Next, organisation. Group ingredients for the cake, then for the buttercream. Time saving tip: Soften your butter way beforehand. Pro tip: don't microwave it!.

Safety reminder: Eggs can carry Salmonella! Wash hands before handling other ingredients. It is very important.

Roll With It: The Yule Log Process

Ready to roll? Here's the easy part.

1. Whisk eggs and sugar until fluffy.
2. Mix dry ingredients. Fold into wet, adding milk and oil.
3. Spread on baking sheet. Bake at 350° F ( 175° C) for 15- 20 minutes .
4. Flip onto powdered sugar towel. Roll it up while warm.
5. Make that Chocolate Buttercream.
6. Unroll cake. Spread buttercream. Re-roll.
7. Frost! Make it look like bark.
8. Chill for 30 minutes .

Pro Tips: Making the Best Yule Log Ever

Don’t overbake! A dry cake cracks. And remember, rolling while warm is key. Honestly, I’ve cracked a few in my time. It still tastes good.

Common mistake: Not enough buttercream. This is a Christmas Chocolate Yule Log , not a diet cake.

Make-ahead option: You can bake the cake a day before. Just keep it rolled in the towel until you’re ready to assemble the Yule Log Christmas Cake .

Seriously, this traditional yule log cake recipe is easier than it looks. give it a whirl, and don't be afraid to add your own twist.

Who knows? maybe you'll invent the next yule log easy recipe !

This Dark Chocolate Yule Log is so rich, it melts in your mouth. This Traditional Yule Log Cake recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy your amazing Yuletide Cake !

Alright, let's chat about making this Traditional Yule Log Cake Recipe a total success. It’s more than just a cake; it’s a Christmas tradition!

Recipe Notes: Making Your Yule Log Recipe Shine

So, you're about to tackle this yule log easy recipe . fantastic! here are a few extra bits and bobs to help you nail it.

I've learned these the hard way, trust me. think of this as friendly advice.

Serving Suggestions: Making It Look Amazing

Presentation matters, right? after all that effort, you want this christmas chocolate yule log to look as good as it tastes! a simple dusting of powdered sugar makes it look snowy.

Add some fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs. this makes it super festive. think about serving with a dollop of whipped cream.

Or maybe a scoop of vanilla ice cream? heaven! a warm mug of mulled wine? absolutely!

Storage Tips: Keeping Your Yuletide Cake Fresh

Right, let's talk storage. honestly, this dark chocolate yule log never lasts long in my house. if you do have leftovers wrap it up tightly.

Then pop it in the fridge. it should be good for about three days. freezing is an option. but the buttercream might change texture a bit.

Thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Variations: Let's Get Creative!

Want to mix things up? i get it! for a gluten-free yule roll cake , use a gluten-free flour blend.

Boom! you've got a gluten-free cake. you could add some peppermint extract to the buttercream. to make a best yule log and give it a festive twist.

I tried a version with coffee liqueur once, seriously good!

Nutrition Basics: Just the Facts

Okay, let's be real. this yule log christmas cake is not exactly a health food. each serving is between 450 and 550 calories.

It does contain some protein and fat. just enjoy it in moderation.

This Traditional Yule Log Cake is all about indulgence. Remember to have fun with it! Don't stress about perfection. Just enjoy the process. Happy baking. And Merry Christmas!