The chocolate Yule Log, also known as a Bûche de Noël, is one of the most iconic desserts of the holiday season. Inspired by the old European tradition of burning a decorated log to bring good luck, this cake captures the same warmth and magic in a delicious, festive form. With its rich chocolate flavor and elegant appearance, it is a centerpiece dessert that instantly makes any Christmas table feel special.
At its heart, the chocolate Yule Log is a light chocolate sponge cake, baked thin and rolled while still warm. This technique keeps the cake soft and flexible, preventing cracks and creating that signature spiral when sliced. The sponge is typically filled with a smooth chocolate buttercream or whipped ganache, adding depth and creaminess without overpowering the cake itself. Once rolled, the cake is covered in another layer of chocolate frosting and textured with a fork to resemble tree bark.
What makes this dessert so loved is its balance. Despite its indulgent look, the cake feels light and airy, making it perfect after a rich holiday meal. The cocoa flavor is deep and comforting, while the creamy filling melts beautifully with every bite. Many variations add a hint of espresso, orange zest, or vanilla to enhance the chocolate and give it a more complex flavor profile.
Decoration is where the Yule Log truly shines. A dusting of powdered sugar mimics freshly fallen snow, while meringue mushrooms, sugared cranberries, or rosemary sprigs turn the cake into a miniature winter forest. Even simple decorations can make it look stunning, proving that this dessert is as much about creativity as it is about taste.
The chocolate Yule Log is also a wonderful make-ahead dessert. It can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge, allowing the flavors to set and making holiday hosting less stressful. Whether you keep it classic or add your own twist, this festive cake brings tradition, elegance, and pure chocolate comfort to the Christmas season.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder unsweetened
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour sifted
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 4 large eggs at room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup whipping cream
- 150 grams dark chocolate chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a Swiss roll pan with baking paper.
- In a bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, and baking powder.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until pale and thick. Fold in the dry ingredients gently.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 10-15 minutes.
- While the cake is baking, whip the cream until it holds firm peaks and melt the chocolate gently.
- Once baked, let the cake cool slightly, then spread the whipped cream over it and roll it up into a log.
- Spread the melted chocolate over the log and garnish as desired. Let it set before serving.
Nutrition
