Name: Irresistibly Decadent Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (sifted); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; ⅓ cup Cocoa Powder (unsweetened); 1 tsp Baking Powder; 1 tsp Baking Soda; ½ tsp Salt; 3 large Eggs; ¼ cup Vegetable Oil; 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; 1 cup Buttermilk (or substitute with milk and vinegar or lemon juice); 2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream; ½ cup Powdered Sugar; 1 tsp Additional Vanilla Extract; 2 tbsp Cocoa Powder (for frosting) (for dusting); ½ cup Chocolate Shavings or Sprinkles

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As the winter chill settles in, I often find myself reminiscing about those cozy family gatherings, where laughter and the rich aroma of chocolate filled the air. This Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake is my latest take on the classic “Bûche de Noël,” transforming the traditional holiday dessert into a delightful, festive treat. With its light, fluffy whipped cream frosting wrapping around moist, chocolatey layers, it’s sure to become a heartwarming centerpiece for your holiday celebrations. Not only is this recipe an impressive showstopper, but it also boasts a quick prep time—perfect for busy holiday kitchens! Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or wishing to impress a crowd, this cake is bound to steal hearts and taste buds alike. Are you ready to bring a slice of this holiday magic into your kitchen?

Why is this Yule Log Cake special?

Festive and Cheerful: This Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake brings a touch of joy to your holiday gatherings with its inviting appearance and delightful flavors.

Quick and Simple: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this impressive dessert in no time—perfect for busy seasonal preparations.

Rich, Chocolatey Goodness: The deep cocoa flavor, complemented by the airy whipped cream, offers a delightful contrast that pleases every palate.

Versatile Flavors: Want to mix things up? Add orange zest or peppermint extract for a refreshing twist in your frosting!

Perfect Showstopper: Impress your friends and family with this cake that looks as good as it tastes, making it a memorable centerpiece for any festive table!

If you’re also interested in other delightful desserts, check out my No-Bake Oreo Cheesecake for an easy treat or try the Baked Chocolate Cheesecake for a rich and satisfying dessert.

Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; ensure it’s sifted for accuracy.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
• Cocoa Powder – Delivers a rich chocolate flavor; unsweetened works best.
• Baking Powder – Serves as a leavening agent for a lighter texture.
• Baking Soda – Works with buttermilk to give lift to the cake.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; a crucial balancing element.
• Eggs – Adds moisture and binds the mixture, supporting cake structure.
• Vegetable Oil – Ensures moistness and tenderness in every bite.
• Vanilla Extract – Infuses sweetness and depth into the cake.
• Buttermilk – Keeps the cake moist; you can substitute with milk and vinegar or lemon juice.

For the Frosting
• Heavy Whipping Cream – Creates a light, airy texture in the frosting.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream frosting.
• Additional Vanilla Extract – Enhances the frosting’s overall flavor.
• Cocoa Powder (for frosting) – Used for dusting and adding extra chocolate flavor.

For Decoration
• Chocolate Shavings or Sprinkles – Mimic tree bark and add a festive touch to the presentation.

This delightful Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake recipe is sure to bring joy to your holiday celebrations!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect baking environment for your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake. While the oven heats, prepare a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing the edges to overhang slightly for easy removal later. This will ensure your cake releases smoothly after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients until fully combined and fluffy, which should take just a minute. This step is essential for achieving the desired light texture in your cake, setting a strong foundation for your delicious Yule log.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, add the eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. Beat with a whisk or mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy, roughly 2-3 minutes. This combination will enrich your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake, adding moisture and flavor to the batter that contributes to its decadent taste.

Step 4: Incorporate the Wet Mixture into the Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture using a spatula until just combined—be careful not to overmix. The batter should be slightly thick and smooth, showcasing a rich chocolate color. This step is crucial as it keeps the cake tender, making it easier to roll later as you create the beloved Yule log shape.

Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan, spreading it evenly to the edges using a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. Keep an eye on the cake; it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 6: Prepare the Sugared Towel
While the cake bakes, prepare a clean, damp kitchen towel. Sprinkle it generously with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. This towel will be essential for rolling your cake while it is still warm, ensuring that your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake maintains its shape and does not crack when you do so.

Step 7: Invert and Cool the Cake
Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Gently invert the cake onto the sugared towel, peeling off the parchment paper. This step allows the warm cake to mold to the towel’s contour, allowing for easier rolling and enhancing the final presentation of your Yule log.

Step 8: Roll the Cake in the Towel
Starting from a short end, carefully roll the cake and towel together, forming a tight log shape. This technique helps to create the iconic swirl that gives the Yule log its charming appearance. Allow the rolled cake to cool completely, which should take around 30 minutes.

Step 9: Prepare the Whipped Cream Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. This fluffy frosting will envelop the rich chocolatey layers of your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake, creating a delightful contrast.

Step 10: Unroll and Fill the Cake
Once the cake has completely cooled, gently unroll it from the towel. Spread an even layer of whipped cream frosting over the surface, ensuring every inch is coated for maximum flavor. Carefully re-roll the cake without the towel, starting from the same short end, to preserve your beautiful swirls and create the signature Yule log shape.

Step 11: Final Touches
Dust the exterior of your rolled Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake with cocoa powder for a rustic look. Add chocolate shavings or sprinkles on top for decorative flair, mimicking the bark of a tree. These finishing touches will enhance its festive appearance, making it an eye-catching centerpiece for your holiday table.

Step 12: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate your Yule log for at least an hour to let the flavors meld and set the frosting. Once chilled, slice the log into pieces to reveal the delightful swirls within. Serve your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake chilled as a perfect dessert at your holiday gatherings, bringing joy and sweetness to all!

What to Serve with Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake

The holiday season is the perfect time to create a meal that’s comforting and delightful, enhancing your dessert experience.

Festive Mulled Wine: The warm spices of mulled wine complement the chocolate flavors beautifully, creating a cozy pairing for your dessert.
Whipped Hot Chocolate: A rich, velvety hot chocolate topped with whipped cream offers an indulgent experience that echoes the cake’s luxuriousness.
Crisp Mint Salad: A refreshing mint salad with citrus elements provides a light contrast to the cake’s sweetness, cleansing your palate beautifully.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet treats mirror the cake’s flavors, adding a burst of freshness and elegance to your dessert table.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced cider offers a festive hug in a mug, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the Yule log with its aromatic spices.
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The creamy texture and subtle vanilla flavor of ice cream enhance the richness of the cake, making each bite even more satisfying.
Gingersnap Cookies: These crunchy, spicy cookies are a delightful contrast, echoing the holiday spirit and adding a crunchy texture beside your soft Yule log.
Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: Light and fluffy with a hint of spice, these doughnuts add a playful element to your dessert spread, keeping guests coming back for more!

Expert Tips for the Best Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake

Roll While Warm: Roll the cake in the towel while still warm to prevent cracks. This ensures a smooth, beautiful shape without any tears.

Chill Your Cream: Keep the heavy whipping cream very cold before whipping it. A chilled bowl also helps achieve those perfect stiff peaks for the frosting.

Don’t Overmix: When folding the wet ingredients into the dry, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light texture you want for your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake.

Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check the cake after baking. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs—perfectly baked and ready to roll!

Decorative Dusting: For an authentic log look, dust the finished Yule log with cocoa powder right before serving. Add chocolate shavings as a lovely embellishment!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cakes are perfect for busy holiday meal prep! You can bake and cool the cake up to 3 days in advance. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The whipped cream frosting can also be prepared up to 24 hours ahead, stored in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain the quality of your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake, avoid spreading the frosting until just before serving; this keeps it looking fresh and fluffy. When you’re ready to impress your guests, simply roll the cake, frost it, and chill for at least an hour before slicing. Enjoy a festive dessert with minimal last-minute effort!

Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Variations

Feel free to customize this delightful cake and explore exciting twists that will enchant your guests!

Minty Fresh: Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the whipped cream for a holiday-fresh flavor. This irresistible combination will transport you to a winter wonderland!
Citrusy Delight: Stir in the zest of one orange into the frosting for a cheerful burst of flavor. It beautifully brightens the rich chocolate profile, offering a refreshing contrast.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture and flavor. Their delightful crunch elevates the overall experience of this creamy sweet treat.
Spiced Warmth: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist. This cozy addition complements the chocolate and creates a festive aromatic experience.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy whipping cream with coconut cream and use a non-dairy milk alternative. This swap ensures that anyone with dietary restrictions can partake in the deliciousness!
Cocoa Powder Frosting: Use cocoa powder in the whipped cream instead of vanilla to intensify the chocolate flavor. This variation will envelop the cake in an extra layer of rich chocolate goodness!
Chocolate-Covered Twists: For a decadent touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the rolled cake before chilling. This will create a beautiful layered effect and satisfy the most devoted chocolate lovers.

If you’re craving more tantalizing dessert ideas, don’t miss out on my delightful No-Bake Oreo Cheesecake or the rich Baked Chocolate Cheesecake.

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake

Fridge: Store your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its freshness and delightful flavor.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy it later, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It can stay frozen for up to 2 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the cake to the fridge to thaw overnight. This gentle thawing method helps preserve its texture and flavor.

Reheating: If you prefer your cake slightly warm, you can zap individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat—nobody wants a dry piece of cake!

Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for the Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake?
Absolutely! For the freshest cake, use eggs that are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter. When choosing buttermilk, look for a thick consistency, as this indicates quality. And always ensure that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh; they should have been purchased within the last 6 months to guarantee optimal rising.

What is the best way to store the Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake?
Very important! You can store your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or store it in a cake dome to keep it fresh. The flavors can develop even further as it sits, making every bite taste delightful. If you’d prefer, you can also freeze it for later enjoyment!

Can I freeze the Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Yule log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. This way, it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight, keeping its lovely texture intact.

What should I do if my cake cracks while rolling?
No worries! If your cake cracks while rolling, don’t panic. This can happen to even the best of us! You can gently patch the cracks with some frosting when assembling your Yule log—no one will notice! Alternatively, ensure you roll the cake while it’s still warm, which helps keep it more pliable. If it cracks while cooling, use a clean, damp cloth to soften the area slightly before attempting to smooth it out again.

Are there any allergy considerations for the Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake?
Great question! Since this cake contains eggs and dairy (buttermilk and heavy whipping cream), it’s important to consider potential allergies. For a dairy-free option, you can use non-dairy milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar in place of buttermilk and substitute the heavy whipping cream with a coconut cream alternative. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens and modify as needed to fit your guests’ dietary restrictions.