How to Make the Perfect Classic Yule Log Cake
French · Hard · 75 min · 10 servings
This stunning Yule log cake, known as a Buche de Noel, is a beloved French Christmas tradition that doubles as a centerpiece and dessert. A light chocolate sponge is rolled around cream filling and decorated to resemble a rustic winter log.
Why this recipe works
This Classic Yule Log Cake recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 75 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 380 calories with 6g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 4 large eggs
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.25 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1.5 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups chocolate buttercream frosting
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Bake the Sponge
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Beat eggs and sugar until pale and thick, fold in flour and cocoa, spread evenly in the pan, and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until springy.
Step 2: Roll the Cake
Turn the warm sponge onto a clean towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel away the parchment and immediately roll the sponge up in the towel from the short end. Let it cool completely rolled up to set the shape.
Step 3: Fill and Assemble
Whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently unroll the cooled sponge, spread the whipped cream evenly, then re-roll tightly without the towel. Cut a diagonal slice from one end to create a branch effect.
Step 4: Decorate the Log
Spread chocolate buttercream all over the outside of the roll using a spatula or fork to create bark-like texture. Dust lightly with powdered sugar to mimic snow and refrigerate until serving.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- heavy whipping cream → coconut cream for a dairy-free version
- all-purpose flour → gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Rolling the sponge after it has cooled completely which causes it to crack badly
- Using too much filling which makes the log impossible to roll without tearing
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 380 calories, 6g protein, 42g carbs, 22g fat, 2g fiber.
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