Classic Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël)

Name: Classic Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël): A Festive Delight!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1/2 cup chocolate ganache

Posted on October 23, 2025

Dessert

Introduction to Classic Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël)

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself reminiscing about the delightful traditions that make this time of year so special. One of my absolute favorites is the Classic Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël). This charming dessert, shaped like a log, is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. It’s perfect for busy moms and professionals like us, offering a quick yet impressive solution for holiday gatherings. With its rich chocolate flavor and creamy filling, this cake is sure to bring smiles to your loved ones’ faces!

Why You’ll Love This Classic Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël)

This Classic Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël) is a delightful blend of ease and elegance. It comes together quickly, making it a perfect choice for busy days when you want to impress without the stress. The rich chocolate flavor paired with the light whipped cream filling creates a heavenly taste that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a fun project to tackle with the kids during the holidays!

Ingredients for Classic Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël)

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Classic Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël). Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your cake, providing structure and a light texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! It helps balance the rich chocolate flavor and adds moisture.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: This gives your cake that deep, chocolatey goodness we all crave during the holidays.

Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise, ensuring it’s fluffy and light.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Large eggs: They add richness and help bind the ingredients together, creating a tender crumb.

Vanilla extract: A splash of this aromatic essence elevates the flavor profile, making it even more delightful.
Heavy cream: Essential for whipping into a luscious filling that complements the chocolate cake perfectly.
Powdered sugar: This sweetener is used to stabilize the whipped cream, giving it that perfect texture.

Chocolate ganache: A decadent topping that adds a glossy finish and rich flavor to your Yule log.

Feel free to get creative! You can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative if needed. And if you want to add a twist, consider incorporating flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!

How to Make Classic Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël)

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making the Classic Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël)! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cake bakes evenly. A hot oven helps the batter rise properly, giving you that light and fluffy texture we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. This step is important because it helps distribute the leavening agent evenly, ensuring your cake rises beautifully.

Step 3: Beat the Eggs

In another bowl, crack the four large eggs and add the vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. The fluffiness is key; it adds air to the batter, making your cake tender and airy.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Now, gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture. Use a spatula to combine them smoothly, being careful not to overmix. You want to keep that airy texture intact. Just mix until you see no more dry flour—trust me, it’ll be worth it!

Step 5: Spread the Batter

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and pour the batter onto it. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure it reaches the corners. This will help your cake bake uniformly, giving you a perfect rectangle to work with later.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when the cake springs back when lightly touched. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. This is the moment of truth!

Step 7: Cool and Roll

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully roll it up in a clean kitchen towel while it’s still warm. This helps shape the cake for later. Let it cool completely in this rolled position to maintain its form.

Step 8: Whip the Cream

While the cake cools, it’s time to whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar. Use a mixer to beat the cream until soft peaks form. This should take about 3-4 minutes. The whipped cream will be the luscious filling that balances the rich chocolate cake.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, gently unroll it. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully re-roll the cake, this time without the towel. It’s okay if it cracks a little; it adds character!

Step 10: Decorate with Ganache

Finally, pour the chocolate ganache over the rolled cake, letting it drip down the sides for that rustic log look. Feel free to get creative with decorations! You can add seasonal fruits, edible glitter, or even little meringue mushrooms to make it festive.

Tips for Success

Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for better volume when beaten.
Use a serrated knife to slice the cake for clean, beautiful pieces.

Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps maintain the cake’s shape.
Experiment with flavors by adding a splash of coffee or orange zest to the batter.
For a festive touch, dust the finished cake with powdered sugar before serving.

Equipment Needed

Baking sheet: A standard rimmed baking sheet works well; a jelly roll pan is a great alternative.
Parchment paper: Essential for easy removal; you can use a silicone baking mat if preferred.
Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes is handy; you can use any large bowl you have.

Hand mixer or whisk: A hand mixer speeds things up, but a whisk works just fine.
Spatula: A rubber spatula is perfect for folding; a wooden spoon can also do the trick.

Variations of Classic Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël)

Chocolate Mint: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the whipped cream for a refreshing twist.

Nutty Delight: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like hazelnuts or almonds into the batter for added texture and flavor.
Fruit-Filled: Layer in some fresh raspberries or strawberries with the whipped cream for a fruity surprise.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

Vegan Option: Use aquafaba (chickpea water) instead of eggs and coconut cream for a dairy-free whipped topping.

Serving Suggestions for Classic Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël)

Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced cider or rich hot chocolate to enhance the festive spirit.

Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Present on a rustic wooden board for a charming holiday display.

FAQs about Classic Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël)

Can I make the Classic Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël) ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. Assemble and decorate it on the day you plan to serve it for the best presentation.

What can I use instead of chocolate ganache?

If you’re looking for alternatives, a rich chocolate frosting or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar can work beautifully. You could also try a cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist!

How do I store leftover Yule Log Cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just be sure to keep it covered to prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze the Classic Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël)?

Yes, you can freeze the unassembled cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before decorating.

What flavors can I add to the whipped cream filling?

Get creative! You can add a splash of vanilla extract, a hint of almond extract, or even a bit of orange zest for a refreshing flavor. Just remember to adjust the sweetness if needed!

Final Thoughts

Creating a Classic Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël) is more than just baking; it’s about crafting memories with loved ones. The joy of rolling the cake, whipping the cream, and decorating it together can turn a simple dessert into a cherished family tradition. Each slice brings a taste of holiday magic, evoking warmth and nostalgia. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or enjoying it with a cozy cup of tea, this delightful cake is sure to spread smiles. So, roll up your sleeves and let the holiday spirit inspire your kitchen adventures!