Yule logs have been a traditional holiday dessert for centuries, but did you know that they go by other names in different countries? In France, a yule log is called a “buche de Noel,” while in Germany it is known as a “Weihnachtsbaumkuchen.” No matter what you call it, this delicious dessert is a must-have for any holiday gathering.
If you’re looking for a new twist on this classic dessert, we’ve got you covered. This recipe for a chocolate peppermint bark yule log is sure to be a hit with your friends and family. It’s easy to make, requires only a few ingredients, and is packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover candy canes from your tree.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup peppermint bark, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Candy canes, crushed, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the water and vegetable oil to the egg mixture and beat until well combined.
- Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake is set and springs back when lightly touched.
- While the cake is baking, make the filling. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped peppermint bark until it is completely melted and smooth.
- Spread the filling over the cooled cake and roll it up tightly, starting at the short end.
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and peppermint extract until well combined.
- Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler until smooth.
- Spread the peppermint frosting over the yule log, then drizzle the melted chocolate over the top.
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the top for garnish.
- Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 26g
- Protein: 4g
Cooking Time
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Medium mixing bowl
- Large mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Small saucepan
- Spatula
- Microwave or double boiler
- Knife or offset spatula
- Refrigerator
Serving Suggestions
This yule log is the perfect dessert for any holiday party. Serve it with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee for a delicious and festive treat. You can also garnish it with whipped cream or additional candy canes if you like.
Variations
If you’re not a fan of peppermint, you can use any other type of candy or chocolate in this recipe. Try using chopped up Snickers bars or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for a different flavor profile. You can also leave out the candy altogether and just use chocolate chips for the filling.
Substitutions
If you don’t have any peppermint bark on hand, you can use regular chocolate chips or any other type of candy in the filling. You can also substitute the peppermint extract in the frosting for any other type of extract, such as vanilla or almond.
Storage
This yule log can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to cover it with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.
Tips
- Be sure to roll the cake tightly to prevent the filling from oozing out.
- If you like a stronger peppermint flavor, you can add more peppermint extract to the frosting.
- Crush the candy canes just before garnishing the yule log to prevent them from becoming sticky.
Notes
This recipe makes a fairly small yule log, so if you’re feeding a crowd, you may want to double the recipe. You can also cut the yule log into smaller slices for easier serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a yule log?
A yule log is a traditional holiday dessert made from a sponge cake that is rolled up and filled with frosting or cream. It is typically decorated to look like a log and is meant to symbolize the winter solstice.
What is peppermint bark?
Peppermint bark is a type of candy that is made from layers of chocolate and crushed candy canes. It is often sold during the holiday season and is a popular ingredient in holiday desserts.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this recipe up to three days ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it.
Can I freeze this recipe?
We do not recommend freezing this recipe, as the cake may become soggy when thawed.
This chocolate peppermint bark yule log is a delicious twist on a classic holiday dessert. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to be a hit with your friends and family. Whether you call it a yule log, buche de Noel, or Weihnachtsbaumkuchen, this dessert is a must-have for any holiday gathering. So why not give it a try this year and start a new holiday tradition?