It’s that time of year again – Christmas is just around the corner! And what better way to get into the festive spirit than by baking a delicious yule log? But we’re not just talking about any old yule log – we’re talking about a yule log with animals! This fun and creative recipe is the perfect way to get the whole family involved in the holiday baking fun. So let’s get started!
Ingredients
- For the cake:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 eggs, room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the filling:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- For the decorations:
- Assorted animal cookies (we used gingerbread reindeer, polar bears, and penguins)
- Chocolate frosting or ganache
- Assorted sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan and line with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Beat in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out with a spatula.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- While the cake is still warm, carefully roll it up along the short end with the parchment paper. Let cool completely.
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just starts to simmer.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips until smooth and melted.
- Unroll the cooled cake and spread the chocolate filling evenly over the surface.
- Carefully roll the cake back up, this time without the parchment paper.
- Place the cake seam-side down on a platter or serving dish.
- Spread chocolate frosting or ganache over the top and sides of the cake.
- Arrange the animal cookies on top of the cake in a fun and festive design.
- Sprinkle with assorted sprinkles.
- Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Nutritional Information
Serving size: 1 slice
Calories: 290
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 29g
Protein: 5g
Cooking Time
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Equipment
- 10×15 inch jelly roll pan
- Parchment paper
- Medium bowl
- Large bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Spatula
- Small saucepan
- Platter or serving dish
Serving Suggestions
This Christmas yule log with animals is the perfect dessert for any holiday gathering or party. Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream and some hot cocoa on the side for a cozy and festive treat.
Variations
Don’t be afraid to get creative with the decorations on your yule log! Try using different types of cookies or candies to create your own unique design. You could also switch up the filling by using a different flavor of chocolate or adding some chopped nuts or dried fruit.
Substitutions
If you don’t have any animal cookies on hand, feel free to use whatever type of cookies or candies you have available. You could also substitute the chocolate filling with whipped cream or a fruit jam.
Storage
This Christmas yule log with animals can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
Tips
- Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before starting the recipe – this will help them whip up more easily and make for a fluffier cake.
- Use a serrated knife to cut your yule log into slices – this will help prevent the cake from squishing down and losing its shape.
- Don’t worry if your cake cracks a bit when you roll it up – this is totally normal and adds to the rustic charm of the finished yule log.
Notes
This recipe makes about 12 servings, depending on how thick you like your slices. You can easily double the recipe if you’re feeding a larger crowd.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this yule log ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the cake and filling up to 2 days in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble the yule log, just spread the filling on the cake and roll it up as directed.
Can I freeze this yule log?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled yule log for up to 1 month. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Can I use a boxed cake mix instead of making the cake from scratch?
Yes, you can use a boxed cake mix if you prefer. Just follow the directions on the box for a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan.
This Christmas yule log with animals is not only delicious, but it’s also a fun and festive way to get the whole family involved in the holiday baking fun. Whether you’re making it for a party or just for a cozy evening at home, this yule log is sure to impress. So go ahead and give it a try – we promise you won’t be disappointed!