Classic Yule Log Cake
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.
A festive rolled chocolate sponge cake decorated to look like a woodland Yule log.
Nutrition per serving
Ingredients
Sponge
Filling
Decoration
Instructions
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.
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.
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.
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.
Substitutions
Common mistakes
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