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
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4 large eggs, room temperature
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¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
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¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
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¼ cup (30 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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¼ tsp salt
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12 oz (340 g) high-quality dark chocolate, finely chopped
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1½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream
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2 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for extra shine)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch (25×38 cm) jelly roll pan with parchment.
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Whip eggs and sugar on high speed for 5–7 minutes, until pale, thick, and tripled in volume.
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Gently fold in vanilla.
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Sift flour, cocoa powder, and salt together. Fold into the egg mixture carefully to keep it airy.
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Spread batter evenly in the pan.
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Bake 10–12 minutes, just until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
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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.
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Heat cream until just simmering (do not boil).
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Pour hot cream over chocolate. Let sit 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
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Add butter (if using), vanilla, and salt. Stir until glossy.
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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.