Yule Log (Bûche de Noël): A Step-by-Step Recipe

How to Make a Yule Log (Bûche de Noël): A Step-by-Step Recipe

The Yule Log, or Bûche de Noël, is a traditional holiday dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious. This festive dessert features a light and airy sponge cake rolled with creamy filling and coated in rich chocolate frosting, designed to look like a log. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Sponge Cake:

4 large eggs, separated
3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
Powdered sugar (for rolling)

For the Filling:

1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2–3 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Decorations:

Powdered sugar (for snow effect)
Sugared cranberries and rosemary sprigs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.

Step 2: Make the Sponge Cake Batter

In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with 1/2 cup of sugar until pale and thick. Mix in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, sift together cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the egg yolk mixture.
In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the egg whites into the cocoa mixture in batches, being careful not to deflate the batter.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.

Step 4: Roll the Cake

Lay a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and dust it generously with powdered sugar.
Immediately after removing the cake from the oven, invert it onto the prepared towel.
Carefully peel off the parchment paper and roll the cake, starting from the short end, with the towel inside. Let it cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Unroll the cooled cake gently and spread the filling evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 6: Roll and Frost the Cake

Reroll the cake tightly, without the towel, and place it seam-side down on a serving platter.
In a separate bowl, beat the butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with milk if needed.
Spread the frosting over the rolled cake, using a spatula to create a bark-like texture.

Step 7: Decorate

Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
Add sugared cranberries and rosemary sprigs for a festive touch.

Tips for the Perfect Yule Log

Use Room-Temperature Eggs: This helps create a fluffy sponge cake.
Work Quickly: Roll the cake while it’s warm to prevent cracking.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the log for an hour enhances flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Visually Stunning: A dessert that doubles as a centerpiece.
Customizable: Swap fillings or add decorations to match your style.
Rich and Decadent: Perfect for celebrating the holiday season.

The Yule Log is a holiday classic that brings a touch of magic to any gathering. With its rich flavors and festive presentation, it’s sure to become a beloved tradition in your home!