The holiday season is upon us, and that means it’s time to indulge in sweet treats that fill our hearts with warmth and joy. And what better dessert to serve than a Yule Log Vanilla Cake? This classic Christmas cake is not only delicious but also visually stunning, resembling a log covered in snow. In this recipe blog, we will guide you through every step of making this festive delight.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1/2 cup milk
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
- Chocolate flakes or shavings, for decoration
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and line a 15×10 inch jellyroll pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat eggs and sugar until pale and thick. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually fold in the flour mixture until well combined. Add melted butter and milk and stir until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cake is springy to the touch.
- Remove the cake from the oven and cool it for 5 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel and remove the parchment paper.
- Roll the cake along with the towel from the short end and let it cool completely.
- Unroll the cake carefully and spread a layer of whipped cream on top. Then, roll the cake back up, using the towel to help you.
- Dust with confectioners’ sugar and decorate with chocolate flakes or shavings.
- Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.
Nutritional Information:
Serving size: 1 slice (based on 12 slices)
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 215mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 4g
Cooking Time:
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours (including refrigeration time)
Equipment:
- 15×10 inch jellyroll pan
- Parchment paper
- Bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Clean kitchen towel
- Spatula
Serving Suggestions:
A Yule Log Vanilla Cake is perfect for any Christmas gathering, potluck, or family dinner. Serve it as a dessert with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate flakes on top.
Variations and Substitutions:
- You can substitute vanilla extract for almond extract to give the cake a nutty flavor.
- You can add a layer of raspberry or strawberry jam before spreading the whipped cream for a fruity twist.
- You can use cream cheese frosting instead of whipped cream for a richer taste.
- You can add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the whipped cream for a crunchier texture.
- You can make a chocolate Yule Log by adding cocoa powder to the cake batter and filling it with chocolate ganache instead of whipped cream.
Storage:
Store the Yule Log Vanilla Cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.
Tips and Notes:
- Make sure to cool the cake completely before spreading the whipped cream to avoid melting.
- Don’t overbake the cake, or it will become dry and difficult to roll.
- You can sprinkle some cocoa powder on the towel before rolling the cake to prevent it from sticking.
- For a more festive look, decorate the Yule Log with fresh berries, holly leaves, or miniature Christmas trees.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is a Yule Log Cake?
A Yule Log Cake, also known as a Bûche de Noël, is a traditional Christmas dessert that originated in France. It is a sponge cake rolled with a cream filling and decorated to look like a log covered in snow.
What is the best filling for a Yule Log Cake?
The most common filling for a Yule Log Cake is whipped cream, but you can also use buttercream frosting, chocolate ganache, or fruit jam.
Can I make a Yule Log Cake in advance?
Yes, you can make a Yule Log Cake a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.
The Yule Log Vanilla Cake is a classic Christmas dessert that never fails to impress. It’s light, fluffy, and has a delicate vanilla flavor that pairs perfectly with the whipped cream filling. The chocolate flakes on top add a nice crunch and contrast to the soft texture of the cake. Overall, this recipe is easy to follow and makes a beautiful centerpiece for any holiday table. I highly recommend trying it out for yourself!