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As the holiday season approaches, the joyful spirit of festivity fills the air, making it the perfect time to create something truly special in the kitchen. Picture this: a chocolatey Yule log, beautifully rolled, adorned with fluffy whipped cream and deliciously dusted with cocoa — a show-stopper that’s sure to be the highlight of any gathering. I first tried this Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake during a cozy winter evening with friends, and it instantly became a holiday staple in my home.

What I love most is its versatility; not only can it impress your guests, but it also offers endless possibilities for customization. Want to add a splash of mint or a hint of citrus? The frosting is your canvas! With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, this cake takes the magic of a traditional Yule log and brings it to the table in a way that’s easy, fun, and oh-so-delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe and spread a little holiday cheer, one slice at a time!

Why is this Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake a must-try?

Irresistible simplicity: This recipe is designed to be manageable for cooks of all levels, with straightforward instructions that lead to a stunning finish.
Delightfully festive: With its rich chocolate flavor and whipped cream frosting, it embodies the essence of the holidays, making it a centerpiece dessert.
Customizable creations: Feel free to experiment with flavors or toppings, like mint or seasonal sprinkles, creating a unique treat for each gathering.
Quick to prepare: In just over an hour, you can whip up this delicious dessert, saving you time during the busy holiday season.
Crowd-pleaser guaranteed: Your family and friends won’t be able to resist a slice of this beautiful Yule log, ensuring it will be a talking point at any celebration.
And for more holiday inspiration, don’t miss my tips on festive recipes!

Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Ingredients

• Get ready to indulge in festive flavors!

For the Cake

All-purpose flour – Provides structure and stability for the cake; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version.
Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture retention; reduce slightly if you prefer a less sweet cake.
Unsweetened cocoa powder – Gives a rich chocolate flavor; try Dutch-processed cocoa for a deeper taste.
Baking powder – Helps the cake rise; make sure it’s fresh for optimal results.
Baking soda – An additional leavening agent; freshness is key for effectiveness.
Salt – Elevates overall flavor; adjust according to personal taste.
Large eggs – Contributes moisture and richness; substitute with flax eggs for a vegan twist.
Vegetable oil – Ensures moisture and tenderness; melted coconut oil works well for a different flavor profile.
Vanilla extract – Adds warmth; pure extract offers superior taste.
Buttermilk – Adds moisture and a slight tang; mix milk with vinegar or lemon juice if you don’t have buttermilk.

For the Frosting

Heavy whipping cream – The base for the light and fluffy frosting; chill it well for best results.
Powdered sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream; adjust to suit your sweetness preference.
Vanilla extract (for frosting) – Enhances flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
Cocoa powder (for frosting) – Dusting adds an extra layer of chocolate goodness.

For Decoration

Chocolate shavings or sprinkles – These mimic tree bark and elevate the festive appearance of your Yule log.

Now that you have all the Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake ingredients ready, it’s time to bring the beauty and delight of this festive dessert to life!

How to Make Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and get a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan ready by lining it with parchment paper for easy release.
Sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a mixing bowl; whisk them well to combine and aerate.
Beat the large eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and buttermilk in another bowl until the mixture is smooth and frothy, giving it that inviting aroma.
Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ones gently until just combined; take care not to overmix, as we want a delightful texture in our cake.
Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to level it out—this ensures even baking and a beautiful roll.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean, showcasing that lovely, soft cake.
Prepare a damp kitchen towel sprinkled with powdered sugar while the cake is baking, ready for the rolling process that follows.
Invert the baked cake onto the sugared towel after letting it cool for 5 minutes; gently peel off the parchment paper to reveal your creation!
Roll the cake from one short end with the towel inside, creating a spiral; let it cool completely while rolled up, locking in that delightful shape.
Whip the chilled heavy cream in a bowl until soft peaks form, then gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks develop; we want it fluffy and light!
Unroll the cooled cake carefully, spread a generous layer of frosting on top, and roll it back up without the towel to maintain that elegant log shape.
Mix cocoa powder and powdered sugar for dusting on top, then use chocolate shavings or sprinkles to decorate and mimic the textures of tree bark.
Chill the finished Yule Log in the refrigerator for at least one hour, allowing the frosting to set and meld with the cake layers.

Optional: Garnish with fresh berries or seasonal sprigs for a beautiful presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake?

As you prepare to celebrate the holiday season, think about the delightful accompaniments that can elevate your feast beyond just this gorgeous centerpiece dessert.

Fresh Berries: A mix of sweet strawberries and tart raspberries adds a refreshing burst that balances the rich chocolate flavors beautifully. The vibrant colors are sure to enhance the festive presentation!
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream alongside for an indulgent pairing that creates a heavenly contrast with the fluffy frosting. The cool creaminess melts slightly against the warm cake, making every bite a dream!
Hot Chocolate: For a cozy, wintery touch, sip on a cup of rich hot chocolate sprinkled with marshmallows. It’s a comforting drink that harmonizes sweetly with the dessert’s chocolatey goodness.
Spiced Tea: A cup of warm spiced tea, with notes of cinnamon and orange, creates a delightful warmth that complements the festive nature of the Yule log while cleansing the palate.
Roasted Nuts: A bowl of mixed roasted nuts provides a crunchy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the softness of the cake. Their savory flavor adds an exciting complexity to the dessert spread.
Peppermint Bark: Create a festive platter by including pieces of rich peppermint bark. The minty freshness cuts through the richness of the Yule log, making for a delightful finish to your holiday meal.
Citrus Salad: A light citrus salad drizzled with honey adds brightness to the table. The zesty freshness pairs excellently with the decadence of the Yule log, bringing balance to the experience.
Mulled Wine: As guests gather, a glass of warm mulled wine offers a comforting, spiced kick that harmonizes with holiday flavors, enhancing the festive atmosphere of your celebration.

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake

Fridge: Store the Yule Log wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the Yule Log in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Serving: When ready to serve, slice and enjoy! If desired, rewhip additional heavy cream for a fresh topping or add a dusting of cocoa to enhance the aesthetic of this festive cake.

Expert Tips for Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake

Gentle Rolling: Roll the cake gently while it’s still warm to prevent cracks from forming. This helps maintain its beautiful shape.
Chill Everything: Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are chilled for whipping the cream, resulting in a stable and fluffy frosting.
Avoid Over-Whipping: Whip the cream until stiff peaks form, but be careful not to over-whip; it can turn grainy and lose its smooth texture.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh baking powder and baking soda for the best rise in your cake; expired ingredients can lead to a dense result.
Customization Potential: Feel free to experiment by adding flavor extracts or seasonal toppings; your Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake will shine even brighter!

Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to personalize this delightful cake and make it your own with these fun twists and swaps!

Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and coconut cream instead of buttermilk and heavy cream for a lactose-free treat.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and opt for coconut oil instead of butter for a totally plant-based cake.
Minty Fresh: Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the frosting for a refreshing twist that brings a wintery chill to your dessert.
Zesty Delight: Incorporate a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest into the batter for a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Nutty Impulse: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful crunch that adds texture to the soft sponge.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a warming spice note to enhance the flavors.
Alternative Chocolates: Experiment with different types of cocoa powder or even melted dark chocolate in the frosting for a more intense chocolate experience.
Toppings Galore: Decorate with crushed graham crackers, seasonal berries, or even edible flowers for a stunning visual that celebrates your creativity.

Each variation invites you to explore and discover new sensations, enriching your holiday gatherings with every slice!

Make Ahead Options

The Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake is ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the chocolate cake up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake and cool it, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. The whipped cream frosting can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, roll out the prepared cake, spread the frosting, and decorate with cocoa dust and chocolate shavings. This approach maintains the cake’s deliciousness while giving you more time to enjoy the festivities!

Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right ingredients for my Yule Log?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose all-purpose flour that is fresh for the ideal cake texture. When it comes to cocoa powder, I recommend using unsweetened for a rich chocolate flavor, but if you’re looking to take it up a notch, Dutch-processed cocoa offers a deeper, more intense taste.

How should I store my Yule Log to keep it fresh?
Store the Yule Log tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. This will keep it fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. If you want to save it for later, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn!

Can I freeze the Yule Log? If so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your Christmas Yule Log, follow these steps:

Once completely cooled, wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap.
Then, wrap it again in aluminum foil to protect from freezer air.
Label with the date and freezer for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving!

What if my cake cracks while rolling? Any tips?
Very! If your cake cracks, don’t worry too much. Make sure to roll it gently while it’s still warm, as it’s more pliable then. If a crack does occur, you can always use extra frosting to cover the imperfections. This is a perfect opportunity for creativity—just turn the crack into a decorative feature!

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Of course! If you have pets around, be cautious as chocolate is toxic for dogs and cats. Always keep this dessert safely out of their reach. As for allergies, if you need to modify the recipe for someone with gluten or dairy sensitivities, gluten-free flour works well, and you can substitute non-dairy cream options available on the market for the frosting.

Can I customize my Yule Log with different flavors or decorations?
Absolutely! The options are endless! You can add peppermint extract for a festive twist or even orange zest for a citrus note in your frosting. For decorations, consider crushed candy canes or edible glitter—let your creativity shine and make each Yule Log unique for every gathering!