Description
At its core, a Decadent Yule Log Cake with Chocolate Ganache is a rolled sponge cake filled and frosted to resemble a fallen log. The cake itself is usually a light Genoise or biscuit sponge, which provides the flexibility needed to roll without cracking. The chocolate ganache serves a dual purpose: a rich, stable filling and a thick, fudge-like frosting that can be textured to look like tree bark.
Ingredients
4 large eggs, room temperature
¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
¼ cup (30 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt
12 oz (340 g) high-quality dark chocolate, finely chopped
1½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream
2 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for extra shine)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch (25×38 cm) jelly roll pan with parchment.
Whip eggs and sugar on high speed for 5–7 minutes, until pale, thick, and tripled in volume.
Gently fold in vanilla.
Sift flour, cocoa powder, and salt together. Fold into the egg mixture carefully to keep it airy.
Spread batter evenly in the pan.
Bake 10–12 minutes, just until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
While warm, dust a clean kitchen towel with cocoa powder. Turn cake out onto towel, peel off parchment, and gently roll up (short end) with the towel inside. Let cool completely.
Heat cream until just simmering (do not boil).
Pour hot cream over chocolate. Let sit 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
Add butter (if using), vanilla, and salt. Stir until glossy.
Let ganache cool until spreadable but soft.
Notes
Here’s a short, elegant note you can add after the recipe:
For a festive finish, garnish the Yule log with a dusting of powdered sugar to mimic freshly fallen snow, chocolate shavings for texture, or a few sugared cranberries and rosemary sprigs. This cake also pairs beautifully with a cup of hot coffee or spiced cocoa, making it a perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings.
- Prep Time: 30minutes
- Cook Time: 15minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1slice
- Calories: 420kcal
Keywords: Rich Bûche de Noël, Festive Chocolate Cake Roll, Christmas Log Dessert, Traditional French Yule Log.