Introduction
The holiday season is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious and decadent dessert? If you’re looking for something sweet, festive, and easy to make, then this cream cheese icing yule log recipe is perfect for you. This dessert is a classic Christmas treat that never fails to impress, and with a few simple ingredients and instructions, you can whip up a mouth-watering yule log in no time. So, let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the cream cheese icing:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the decorations:
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
- Optional: Candied cranberries, mint leaves, or fresh berries
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. 2. Line a 10×15 inch baking sheet with parchment paper, then grease the paper with cooking spray. 3. In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together on high speed for 5 minutes or until thick and pale. 4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. 5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, and fold until well combined. 6. Stir in the vanilla extract. 7. Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, and smooth it into an even layer. 8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when touched. 9. While the cake is still warm, roll it up tightly with the parchment paper inside, starting from the shorter end. 10. Let it cool completely, seam-side down. To make the cream cheese icing: 1. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. 2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, and continue beating until light and fluffy. 3. Stir in the vanilla extract. To assemble the yule log: 1. Carefully unroll the cake, and spread the cream cheese icing evenly over the surface. 2. Roll the cake back up tightly, using the parchment paper to help you. 3. Dust the top with confectioners’ sugar and cocoa powder, and decorate with cranberries, mint leaves, or fresh berries, if desired.
Nutritional Information
This cream cheese icing yule log recipe makes 10-12 servings. Each serving contains approximately: – 273 calories – 17g fat – 27g carbohydrates – 4g protein – 1g fiber – 62mg cholesterol – 193mg sodium
Cooking Time
Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes Total time: 1 hour
Equipment
– 10×15 inch baking sheet – Parchment paper – Mixing bowls – Electric mixer – Spatula
Serving Suggestions
This cream cheese icing yule log is a classic Christmas treat that is best served as a dessert after a festive holiday meal. It pairs well with a hot cup of cocoa or coffee, and can be enjoyed with family and friends.
Variations
– Instead of cranberries, you can use chopped nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips to decorate the yule log. – For a different flavor profile, you can add orange zest, peppermint extract, or cinnamon to the cream cheese icing. – To make a gluten-free version of this recipe, you can use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Substitutions
– You can use margarine instead of butter in the cream cheese icing, but the flavor and texture may be slightly different. – If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute. – For a healthier version, you can use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
Storage
This cream cheese icing yule log can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 1 month, but make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
Tips
– Make sure to beat the eggs and sugar together for at least 5 minutes to ensure a light and fluffy cake. – Don’t overmix the dry ingredients into the batter, as this can result in a dense and tough cake. – Let the cake cool completely before adding the cream cheese icing, or it may melt and become runny. – Use a sharp knife to cut the yule log into slices, and wipe the knife clean between cuts to prevent the icing from sticking.
Notes
– This recipe can be easily doubled or halved depending on your needs. – You can make the cake and icing ahead of time, and assemble the yule log just before serving. – If you don’t have a 10×15 inch baking sheet, you can use a 9×13 inch pan instead, but the cake will be thicker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of frosting instead of cream cheese icing? A: Yes, you can use any frosting of your choice, such as buttercream, whipped cream, or ganache. Q: Can I make this recipe without cocoa powder? A: Yes, you can omit the cocoa powder and make a vanilla sponge cake instead. Q: Can I add food coloring to the cream cheese icing? A: Yes, you can add a few drops of food coloring to the icing to create different colors.
Conclusion
This cream cheese icing yule log recipe is a festive and delicious dessert that is perfect for the holiday season. It’s easy to make, and the combination of chocolate cake and creamy icing is sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this yule log is a classic Christmas dessert that never goes out of style. So, go ahead and try it out for yourself – your taste buds will thank you!