Must-Try Winter Wonderland Yule Log Cake for the Holidays

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Nothing says holiday magic quite like a showstopping Yule Log cake on the dessert table. With its whimsical swirl of fluffy cake and dreamy frosting, this Winter Wonderland Yule Log is a festive treat that will have everyone enchanted. Perfect for cozy gatherings and memorable celebrations, this cake envelops the spirit of the season in each decadent slice.

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Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs, separated
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)
  • 8 ounces white chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
  • Extra powdered sugar for dusting
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Instructions

First, prepare the sponge cake. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 10×15-inch rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks and granulated sugar until thick and pale. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, folding gently to combine.

In a separate clean bowl, whip the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped whites into the batter, being careful not to deflate them. Spread the batter evenly onto the prepared pan and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cake springs back lightly when touched.

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Once baked, immediately invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel lightly dusted with powdered sugar. Peel away the parchment and gently roll the cake, towel and all, starting from one short end. This helps set the shape of your Yule Log. Allow it to cool completely.

While the cake cools, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and optional peppermint extract to stiff peaks. Carefully unroll the cooled cake, spread the whipped cream evenly on top, and roll it right back up—this time without the towel. Transfer the rolled cake onto a serving platter.

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For the frosty finishing touch, pour your melted white chocolate over the log, smoothing it out with an offset spatula. If desired, use the back of a fork to create ridges resembling tree bark. A dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of edible glitter brings the Winter Wonderland vibe to life.

This Winter Wonderland Yule Log Cake is perfect for holiday celebrations, offering an impressive look that’s surprisingly straightforward to achieve. If you are looking for a lighter version, consider using a reduced-fat whipped topping. Feel free to swap out the peppermint extract for vanilla or almond, and decorate your log with sugared berries or chocolate shavings for an extra flourish. No matter your choice, this Yule Log brings a sweet taste of festivity for all to share.

Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.