Introduction
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and festive yule log recipe! This traditional dessert is a staple during the holiday season, and we’ve put together a special recipe that doesn’t include coffee – perfect for those who don’t drink or simply don’t enjoy the taste. Our recipe is easy to follow, and the end result is a beautiful and mouth-watering dessert that will be the star of any holiday gathering. So, put on your apron, preheat your oven, and 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 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For decoration:
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. 3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. 4. Add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture and stir until well combined. 5. Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, and stir until the batter is smooth. 6. Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly. 7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake is set and springs back when lightly touched. 8. While the cake is still warm, carefully roll it up (along with the parchment paper) from one end to the other, creating a log shape. Allow the cake to cool completely in this rolled-up position. 9. While the cake is cooling, prepare the filling by whipping the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form. 10. Once the cake is cooled, carefully unroll it and spread the filling evenly over the surface. 11. Roll the cake back up, removing the parchment paper as you go. 12. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy. 13. Gradually add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is smooth and creamy. 14. Frost the outside of the cake with the chocolate frosting, creating a bark-like texture with a fork or spatula. 15. Combine the powdered sugar and cocoa powder for decoration, and sprinkle over the top of the cake to resemble snow. 16. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Nutritional Information
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings. The following nutritional information is per serving: Calories: 350 Fat: 22g Saturated Fat: 12g Cholesterol: 105mg Sodium: 100mg Carbohydrates: 36g Fiber: 1g Sugar: 30g Protein: 3g
Cooking Time
Preparation Time: 30 minutes Baking Time: 12-15 minutes Chilling Time: 1 hour
Equipment
- 2 large mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Sifter
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
Serving Suggestions
This yule log recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or as a special dessert for your family. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Variations
You can change up the flavor of this yule log recipe by adding different extracts or spices to the cake batter, such as peppermint, cinnamon, or almond. You can also swap out the chocolate frosting for a vanilla or cream cheese frosting, or use different decorations on top, such as fresh berries or chocolate shavings.
Substitutions
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use whipped topping or whipped coconut cream instead. You can also substitute the vegetable oil with melted butter or coconut oil, and use almond milk or soy milk instead of regular milk.
Storage
Store any leftover yule log in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips
For a more authentic bark-like texture, use a fork or spatula to create grooves in the chocolate frosting before sprinkling with powdered sugar and cocoa powder.
Notes
Make sure to roll the cake tightly when creating the log shape to prevent cracking or falling apart when unrolling it later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this yule log recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the cake and filling in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and frost the yule log. Q: Can I freeze this yule log recipe? A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled and frosted yule log for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Personal Thoughts
This yule log recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to impress their guests during the holiday season. The cake is moist and chocolatey, and the whipped cream filling and chocolate frosting add the perfect amount of sweetness. Plus, the powdered sugar and cocoa powder decorations make it look like a winter wonderland. Give this recipe a try and watch as your guests rave about your baking skills!
Summary
This yule log recipe is a festive and delicious dessert that’s perfect for the holiday season. The cake is made with cocoa powder and filled with whipped cream, then frosted with a decadent chocolate frosting. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and cocoa powder for a snow-like effect. Serve it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. This recipe is easy to follow and yields approximately 12 servings.
Try It Out for Yourself
Now that you have all the information you need to make this delicious yule log recipe, it’s time to give it a try for yourself! Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply want to treat your family to something special, this recipe is sure to impress. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a slice of holiday cheer!