Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Recipe

If you’re dreaming of a dessert that brings a festive sparkle and a cozy, homemade touch to your holiday table, this Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a moist, chocolatey sponge rolled with luscious whipped cream frosting, all dressed up in chocolate shavings that mimic the rustic charm of a traditional yule log. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or looking for a straightforward Christmas treat, this cake combines simplicity and elegance in a way that feels like giving a warm hug on a chilly holiday evening.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first joyful step toward creating this magical Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Recipe. Each component is simple yet plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and festive appearance.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter while ensuring a moist texture.
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds rich, deep chocolate flavor and color.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise evenly and keeps it light.
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidity in buttermilk for a perfect lift.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
• 4 large eggs: Provide structure and richness for a tender cake.
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft without heaviness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lifts the flavor with warm, sweet notes.
• 1/2 cup buttermilk: Adds tang and helps achieve a light, tender crumb.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: The base for the luscious frosting.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream frosting.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Infuses the frosting with a gentle vanilla warmth.
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (for frosting): Dusting or mixing to add subtle chocolate notes.
• Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (for decoration): Adds the perfect finishing touch to mimic bark texture.

How to Make Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper that hangs over the edges for easy cake removal later. This step ensures your delicate cake doesn’t stick and rolls smoothly.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them well to evenly distribute the leavening agents and create a smooth base for your batter.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and buttermilk until everything is beautifully blended into a silky smooth mix. This creates moisture and richness that will make your cake tender and flavorful.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients slowly, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough, so stop as soon as the batter is smooth and uniform.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan, ensuring the edges have batter too. Bake for about 12-15 minutes. Your cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, and the cake springs back when lightly touched.

Step 6: Roll the Cake While Warm

Prepare a clean, damp kitchen towel sprinkled with powdered sugar. When your cake comes out of the oven, let it cool for 5 minutes, then gently invert it onto the towel and peel off the parchment. Roll it tightly in the towel starting from a short edge and let it cool completely rolled up. This step forms the perfect log shape without cracks.

Step 7: Make the Whipped Cream Frosting

Beat the heavy cream in a bowl until soft peaks form. Slowly add powdered sugar and vanilla, then continue beating until you reach stiff peaks. This light, fluffy frosting will complement the chocolate cake with creamy sweetness.

Step 8: Assemble the Yule Log

Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread the frosting evenly, leaving a small border to prevent overflow. Roll it back up tightly without the towel and place it seam side down on a platter. This keeps the cake neat and ready for decoration.

Step 9: Decorate to Resemble a Log

Mix cocoa powder and remaining powdered sugar if you want a dusting on top or spread extra whipped cream for texture. Finish by sprinkling chocolate shavings or sprinkles to mimic the rustic bark of a real Yule log. Chill before serving to let it set beautifully.

How to Serve Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Adding edible gold dust, fresh cranberries, or small sprigs of rosemary alongside the chocolate shavings can really amp up the festive vibe. These garnishes add pops of vibrant color and a hint of freshness against the rich chocolate, creating a feast for both eyes and palate.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a crisp cranberry sauce or a warm mug of spiced mulled wine. Serving it alongside vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of flavored whipped cream is another delightful way to complement the cake’s chocolate richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a truly enchanting holiday centerpiece, place the yule log cake on a wooden serving board surrounded by pinecones, cinnamon sticks, and fairy lights. Wrapping a decorative ribbon around the base or slicing the log into little “stumps” for individual servings invites joy and conversation at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover yule log cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and the smooth texture of the whipped cream frosting.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake after it’s assembled but before decorating. Wrap it securely in plastic and foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and decorate fresh to keep that homemade charm.

Reheating

This cake is best served chilled, so reheating isn’t necessary. To bring the flavors to life after refrigeration, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This softens the frosting and enhances the taste without melting the delicate structure.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

While you can substitute regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s tangy acidity, buttermilk is ideal in this Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Recipe for that tender crumb and lift.

How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

Rolling the cake while it’s still warm, with a powdered sugar-dusted damp towel, helps prevent cracks. Be gentle and don’t force it to roll tighter than it naturally goes.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup, and ensure your cocoa powder and other ingredients are gluten-free certified for safe holiday baking.

What if I want a different frosting?

If whipped cream isn’t your favorite, consider using a classic chocolate buttercream or mascarpone frosting for a richer, denser complement to the cake’s delicate texture.

How far in advance can I make this cake?

You can bake and assemble the Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Recipe up to 2 days before serving. Just keep it chilled and decorate right before the party for the best presentation.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Recipe is a wonderful way to bring joy and warmth to your holiday celebrations with minimal fuss and maximum impact. Its tender chocolate sponge, creamy filling, and festive presentation never fail to impress. I hope you give it a try and find it becomes a beloved tradition on your holiday table just like it is on mine!

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