There’s something truly magical about the *Christmas log cake*, or as we like to call it, the Yule log! This delightful dessert is the centerpiece of many holiday celebrations, bringing warmth and sweetness to our gatherings. I remember the first time I made it; the kitchen was filled with the rich aroma of cocoa, and I couldn’t help but smile as I rolled the cake into its iconic log shape. It’s one of those recipes that not only looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to make! With my years of baking experience, I’ve perfected this festive treat, and I can’t wait to share my secrets with you. Trust me, once you try this cake, it’ll become a beloved holiday tradition in your home, too!
Ingredients for Christmas Log Cake
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this festive masterpiece! Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up a delicious *Christmas log cake*:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Make sure it’s sifted for a lighter cake.
- 1 cup sugar: This adds the sweetness that perfectly balances the cocoa.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Use good quality cocoa for rich chocolate flavor.
- 1/2 cup butter: Unsalted is best; make sure it’s softened to room temperature so it creams well.
- 4 large eggs: These should be at room temperature for better emulsification.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract gives the best flavor—trust me!
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: This helps the cake rise beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to enhance the sweetness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For whipping into a luscious filling and topping.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: This is what you’ll whip into the cream for sweetness and stability.
- 1/4 cup chocolate shavings: For that beautiful, festive decoration!
Make sure you have everything on hand before you start; it makes the baking process so much smoother and more enjoyable!
How to Prepare Christmas Log Cake
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s get into the fun part—making your *Christmas log cake*! Follow these steps closely, and I promise you’ll have a stunning dessert that’ll impress everyone.
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it helps the cake rise evenly, giving you that perfect fluffy texture. So don’t skip this step—set it up and let it warm up while you prepare the batter!
Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, mix together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk them together until they’re well combined. This helps to aerate the flour and cocoa, making sure there are no lumps. You want everything to be light and fluffy for that perfect cake!
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In another large mixing bowl, beat the 1/2 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 3-5 minutes. I like to use an electric mixer for this part, but if you’re feeling strong, a good old-fashioned whisk works too. The key here is to incorporate air into the mix, which will help your cake rise beautifully!
Incorporate the Eggs
Now it’s time to add the 4 large eggs—do this one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This allows each egg to emulsify properly into the butter and sugar mixture, which is crucial for a moist cake. You’ll notice the batter getting richer and more luscious as you go!
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Next, gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. I like to do it in thirds, mixing gently after each addition until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this can lead to a dense cake, and we want it to be light and airy! Aim for a smooth batter with no dry spots.
Bake the Cake
Once your batter is ready, pour it into a greased baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake it in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If it’s still wet, give it a couple more minutes. No peeking too soon, though—let it bake!
Cool and Assemble
After baking, let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This is super important because if you try to roll it warm, it may crack. While it cools, whip up your 1 cup of heavy cream with 1 cup of powdered sugar until you reach stiff peaks. This whipped cream will be the delicious filling and topping for your log cake!
Roll the Cake
Once the cake is completely cool, carefully turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. This step helps prevent sticking. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. Now, gently roll the cake up into a log shape, using the towel to help you. Be patient and go slow to avoid cracks!
Decorate with Chocolate Shavings
Finally, place your log on a serving platter and decorate! I like to spread a thin layer of whipped cream over the outside and then sprinkle chocolate shavings all over for that festive touch. You can also get creative with some berries or powdered sugar for an extra pop! Wow, your guests with this stunning holiday centerpiece!
Tips for Success
Want to ensure your *Christmas log cake* turns out perfectly? Here are my top tips to help you achieve that stunning, delicious dessert:
- Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh eggs and good quality cocoa powder. It really makes a difference in flavor and texture!
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create that fluffy texture we all love!
- Don’t rush the cooling: Let the cake cool completely before rolling. If it’s even slightly warm, cracks can develop, and we want a smooth roll.
- Use a towel for rolling: Dust your kitchen towel with powdered sugar before rolling the cake. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to navigate the rolling process.
- Be gentle: When rolling the cake, take your time and be gentle. If it cracks, don’t panic! You can always patch it up with whipped cream.
- Decorate creatively: Get imaginative with your decorations! The chocolate shavings are just the beginning—berries, mint leaves, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can really elevate your cake.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to a magnificent *Christmas log cake* that’ll impress your friends and family!
Nutritional Information
While I love sharing my delicious recipes, I want to remind you that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, keep in mind that the following information is a general estimate and not precise for every cake. Here’s what you might expect per serving of my delightful *Christmas log cake*:
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
So, enjoy this festive treat in moderation, and remember, it’s all about balance during the holiday season! Happy baking!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making the perfect *Christmas log cake*? You’re not alone! Here are some of the most common queries I get, and I’m here to help you out:
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and let it cool completely. Just store it in the fridge wrapped in plastic wrap to keep it fresh. Then, assemble it with the whipped cream filling and roll it up on the day you plan to serve it!
What if my cake cracks while rolling?
Don’t worry if this happens! It’s super common, especially if the cake is a bit warm. Just use some of the whipped cream to patch it up—no one will notice once it’s decorated! Plus, it’ll still taste delicious!
Can I use different fillings?
Of course! While I love the classic whipped cream filling, feel free to get creative. You can use flavored frostings, fruit preserves, or even a rich ganache for a decadent twist. Just make sure whatever you choose pairs well with the chocolate cake!
How should I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just be sure to enjoy it chilled—it’s so delightful that way!
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can! Just make sure the cake is fully cooled and wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. It should be good in the freezer for up to a month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving, and it’ll taste just as delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive Appeal: The *Christmas log cake* is not only delicious but also a stunning centerpiece that adds a touch of holiday magic to your table!
- Rich Chocolate Flavor: With a deep cocoa flavor, this cake is a chocolate lover’s dream, perfectly balanced with the sweet whipped cream filling.
- Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, this recipe is simple enough for even beginner bakers to tackle—trust me, you can do it!
- Customizable: Feel free to play around with different fillings and decorations—each log can be uniquely yours!
- Perfect for Sharing: With 8 generous servings, it’s the ideal dessert to share with family and friends during your holiday gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the cake in advance, making it a stress-free option for busy holiday schedules.
Christmas Log Cake: 5 Steps to Sweet Holiday Magic
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive dessert shaped like a log, often enjoyed during Christmas celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup chocolate shavings for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool completely.
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Spread whipped cream on the cooled cake and roll it up to form a log shape.
- Decorate with chocolate shavings.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for best results.
- Ensure the cake is completely cool before rolling.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: christmas log cake, yule log, holiday dessert
