Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the first snowflakes begin to twirl in the air, the scent of chocolate wafts through my kitchen, turning my thoughts to holiday traditions. This Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate, perfect for cozy gatherings with friends and family. Featuring layers of rich chocolate cake enveloped in a cloud-like whipped cream frosting, this festive creation is both impressive and approachable. It checks all the boxes: it’s an eye-catching centerpiece that takes just a little more effort than your everyday cake, making it an ideal project for passionate home chefs. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, allowing you to savor every delightful bite without the holiday stress. Who’s ready to roll up their sleeves and dive into this sweet adventure together? Why is this Yule Log Cake a must-try? Decadent flavors: This Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake combines rich chocolate with a light, airy whipped cream frosting, creating a delightful treat that will impress everyone at your holiday table. Impressive yet easy: With its stunning presentation, this cake is sure to be a showstopper, yet the straightforward steps make it manageable for home bakers eager to enchant their guests. Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with festive variations, such as adding peppermint or orange zest to the frosting, to personalize this holiday classic. Time-saving delight: Bake in advance! The cake can be prepped and stored for up to three days, freeing you to enjoy quality time with loved ones. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, this cake is perfect for embracing the spirit of the season and creating lasting memories. Don’t forget to check out our other festive recipes, like this Bake Cheesecake Discover for more sweet inspirations! Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Ingredients Dive into the magic of flavors with these essential components! For the Cake All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cake; ensure proper sifted measurement for accuracy. Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in the browning process during baking. Cocoa Powder – Delivers that rich chocolate flavor; use unsweetened for optimal results. Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a lighter cake texture. Baking Soda – Works in tandem with buttermilk’s acidity to give lift. Salt – Enhances flavor, making it essential for a balanced taste. Eggs – Contributes moisture and binds the ingredients together, impacting the cake’s structure. Vegetable Oil – Provides moisture and tenderness for a deliciously soft cake. Vanilla Extract – Infuses a lovely depth of sweetness and flavor. Buttermilk – Adds moisture and reacts with baking soda for the perfect rise; can substitute with milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice. For the Frosting Heavy Whipping Cream – Used for the frosting to achieve a light, airy texture that everyone loves. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting beautifully. Additional Vanilla Extract – Enhances the frosting flavor to perfection. Cocoa Powder (for frosting) – Used for dusting and adding that extra chocolatey goodness. For Decoration Chocolate Shavings or Sprinkles – Decorative elements that mimic the look of tree bark, adding a festive touch to your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper, ensuring the edges are covered. This will prevent your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake from sticking and allow for an easy release once baked. Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk the ingredients thoroughly until well combined, ensuring there are no lumps. This step is crucial as it helps aerate the flour, leading to a lighter texture for your festive cake. Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients In a separate bowl, crack in the eggs and add vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. Beat these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous. The combination of wet ingredients will add moisture and depth of flavor to your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake, making it irresistibly delicious. Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want just to incorporate everything until there are no visible flour streaks left. This will ensure a tender cake without dense pockets, so your Yule Log turns out perfectly light and fluffy. Step 5: Prepare the Cake Batter Pour the combined batter into the prepared jelly roll pan, spreading it evenly to the edges with a spatula. Make sure the batter is leveled out to ensure uniform baking. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Step 6: Prepare the Towel While the cake is baking, lay out a clean damp kitchen towel and sprinkle it generously with powdered sugar. This will help prevent sticking when you roll the cake later. Setting this up ahead of time ensures a smooth transition once the cake is baked and out of the oven. Step 7: Cool and Roll the Cake Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and cool for about 5 minutes in the pan. Carefully invert the cake onto the prepared powdered sugar towel, peeling away the parchment paper. Quickly roll the cake tightly from one short end with the towel, allowing it to cool in this rolled shape to help it maintain its form. Step 8: Whip the Cream In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and additional vanilla extract while continuing to beat the mixture until you achieve stiff peaks. This will produce a fluffy and decadent frosting for your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake. Step 9: Unroll and Frost the Cake Once the cake has completely cooled, gently unroll it from the towel. Spread an even layer of the whipped cream frosting over the entire surface of the cake, leaving a small border around the edges. Re-roll the cake without the towel, taking care to keep the frosting intact for a beautiful swirl when you slice it. Step 10: Decorate the Yule Log After rolling the cake, dust the exterior with cocoa powder for a rustic finish. Add decorative chocolate shavings or sprinkles on top to mimic the appearance of tree bark, enhancing the visual appeal of your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake. This little touch brings the festive spirit to your holiday dessert. Step 11: Chill Before Serving Place your decorated Yule Log in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least one hour before slicing. This allows the flavors to meld and makes cutting the cake easier. The anticipation will be worth it when you serve this stunning centerpiece at your holiday gathering! Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Variations Let your creativity flow as you customize this delightful dessert with exciting variations. Minty Fresh: Add peppermint extract to the frosting for a refreshing holiday twist that will invigorate your taste buds. Imagine each creamy slice filled with that cool, sweet flavor, bringing a festive zing. Citrus Zing: Incorporate fresh orange zest into the whipped cream for a vibrant, zesty note. This twist brightens up the chocolate, creating a delightful contrast that elevates your Yule Log. Nutty Crunch: Fold crushed walnuts or hazelnuts into the frosting for added texture and a nutty flavor. This delightful addition adds a charming crunch that complements the soft cake beautifully. Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute heavy whipping cream with coconut cream and use non-dairy butter to make a vegan version. The tropical hint from coconut adds a fun twist to this classic treat. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter for a warm, spiced flavor. This will give your Yule Log those cozy holiday vibes that everyone loves! Chocolate Lovers Dream: Use chocolate ganache instead of whipped cream for a richer, ultra-decadent experience. The glossy finish will wow your guests, making it a real showstopper. Fruity Finish: Top the Yule Log with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a pop of color and sweetness. This vibrant addition will brighten up the dessert table during any holiday gathering. Feel free to explore these variations and make this Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake truly your own! And if you’re in the mood for more festive inspirations, check out our rich Bake Chocolate Cheesecake or the delightful Bake Oreo Cheesecake for additional sweet treats. Happy baking! Make Ahead Options These Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday hustle! You can bake the cake up to 3 days ahead, allowing it to cool completely before rolling it in the powdered sugar towel. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep it moist and fresh. The whipped cream frosting can also be prepared in advance and stored separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply unroll the chilled cake, spread the frosting, re-roll, and dust with cocoa powder and chocolate shavings. This way, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort, making your festive gatherings even more enjoyable! How to Store and Freeze Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Fridge: Keep your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will maintain its freshness and delightful flavor. Freezer: If you’d like to keep it longer, wrap the rolled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It’s best consumed within 1–2 months. Thawing: To enjoy frozen cake, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. For quicker thawing, you can leave it at room temperature for a few hours. Reheating: While not necessary, if you’ve frozen individual slices, you can pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy a warm treat! What to Serve with Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake As the rich aroma of chocolate fills your home, enhance your holiday gathering with delightful accompaniments that beautifully complement this festive dessert. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes provide a comforting, savory contrast to the sweet richness of the Yule Log, creating a well-rounded meal for your guests. Spiced Mulled Wine: The warm spices in mulled wine mirror the cozy flavors of the Yule Log, making each sip a festive treat that pairs perfectly with a slice. Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with citrus vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch to balance the sweetness, ensuring a delightful contrast on the palate. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges and earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts bring a savory depth, harmonizing with the dessert’s rich chocolate layers. Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Serve this indulgent drink to echo the Yule Log’s festive spirit; it’s a fun way to let your guests whisper sweet nothings while enjoying their treats! Gingerbread Cookies: A classic holiday favorite, these cookies enhance the festive atmosphere and offer an additional sweet crunch alongside your Yule Log. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce not only complements the sweetness of the cake but also adds a pop of color to your dessert table. These pairings create a symphony of flavors, ensuring that the indulgence of your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake is matched by a delightful array of accompaniments. Expert Tips for Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Rolling Warm: Roll the cake while it’s still warm with the towel to prevent cracking. This helps maintain the cake’s shape for a beautiful presentation. Chill Your Cream: Keep the heavy whipping cream very cold before whipping. This ensures that you achieve stiff peaks and a light, airy texture in your frosting. Avoid Overbeating: Once soft peaks form when whipping cream, stop mixing to avoid graininess. Careful whipping will ensure the smooth, perfect frosting for your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake. Practice Patience: Allow the chocolate cake to cool completely in its rolled state before unrolling. This step makes it more pliable, reducing the risk of breaking when you add the frosting. Flavor Exploration: Don’t hesitate to experiment with festive flavors by adding peppermint or orange zest to the frosting. Personalizing your Yule Log can make it even more delightful for your holiday gathering. Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Recipe FAQs What type of cocoa powder should I use for the cake? Absolutely! For the best rich chocolate flavor, I recommend using unsweetened cocoa powder. This allows you to control the sweetness of the cake better while still delivering that deep chocolate taste that everyone loves. How can I store my Yule Log cake? You can keep your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents it from drying out—perfect for enjoying seconds (or thirds) when the craving strikes! Can I freeze the Yule Log cake? Yes, you can certainly freeze the cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will stay delicious for about 1–2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight or leave it at room temperature for a few hours. What should I do if my cake cracks while rolling? Very! If you notice cracks, don’t worry! This can happen, especially if the cake is overbaked or cooled too quickly. Just dust some extra powdered sugar over the cracks once you have it rolled, and it will camouflage those imperfections nicely under the frosting. If it’s severely cracked, you can always use the leftover frosting to patch it up! Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Certainly! If you’re accommodating gluten-free eaters, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. There are many great mixes available that work wonderfully, ensuring that everyone at your table can indulge in this festive treat. Just be mindful to check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free. Is it safe to give to pets? No, it’s best to keep this Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake away from pets, as chocolate can be toxic to animals. Instead of sharing, consider delighting your furry friends with some pet-friendly treats made specifically for them—they’ll appreciate the thought just as much! Decadent Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake to Delight Your Tastebuds This Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake is a delightful, impressive dessert perfect for holiday gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsChilling Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake1 cup All-Purpose Flour Ensure proper sifted measurement for accuracy.1 cup Granulated Sugar Adds sweetness and aids in browning.¾ cup Cocoa Powder Use unsweetened for optimal results.1 teaspoon Baking Powder Acts as a leavening agent.1 teaspoon Baking Soda Works with buttermilk for lift.½ teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor.3 large Eggs Contributes moisture and binds ingredients.½ cup Vegetable Oil Provides moisture.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Infuses depth of sweetness.1 cup Buttermilk Adds moisture and reacts with baking soda.For the Frosting2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream Used for frosting.1 cup Powdered Sugar Sweetens and stabilizes frosting.1 teaspoon Additional Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor.2 tablespoons Cocoa Powder For dusting.For Decoration1 cup Chocolate Shavings or Sprinkles Decorative elements for festive touch. Equipment 15x10 inch jelly roll panelectric mixermixing bowlsspatulaparchment paperKitchen towel Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 15x10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.In a large mixing bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.In a separate bowl, combine eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and buttermilk, then beat until smooth.Fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until no visible flour streaks remain.Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.Lay a damp kitchen towel sprinkled with powdered sugar while the cake bakes.After baking, cool the cake for 5 minutes, invert it onto the towel, and roll it tightly to cool.Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.After cooling, unroll the cake and spread whipped cream frosting over it, then re-roll carefully.Dust the rolled cake with cocoa powder and decorate with chocolate shavings or sprinkles.Chill the decorated Yule Log in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 5gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 210mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 2gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesRoll the cake while warm to prevent cracking. Experiment with festive flavors for personalization. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
