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Festive Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake Recipe: A Delightful Holiday Treat


  • Author: Annabel
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 servings

Description

Dazzle your guests this holiday season with a stunning Festive Christmas Yule Log Sheet Cake! This classic dessert features a moist chocolate sheet cake, a light whipped cream filling, and a rich chocolate ganache buttercream frosting. Adorned with powdered sugar, rosemary sprigs, and cranberries, this festive treat is both a visual and culinary delight.


Ingredients

Chocolate Sheet Cake

  • ¾ cup buttermilk (room temperature)
  • ⅔ cup sour cream (room temperature)
  • 3 large eggs (room temperature)
  • ⅓ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 (15.25 oz) box chocolate cake mix (e.g., Duncan Hines Dark Chocolate Fudge)

Whipped Cream Filling

  • 3 cups heavy whipping cream (cold)
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup powdered sugar

Chocolate Ganache Buttercream

  • 3 cups chocolate melts (e.g., Ghirardelli)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (+ more if needed)
  • 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter (softened slightly)
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 5 cups powdered sugar

Garnishes

  • ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs
  • Fresh cranberries

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chocolate Sheet Cake:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12×18-inch baking sheet and line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, sour cream, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Gradually mix in the chocolate cake mix until no lumps remain.
  4. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the surface.
  5. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.

2. Make the Whipped Cream Filling:

  1. In a chilled mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar.
  2. Beat with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.
  3. Refrigerate the whipped cream until needed.

3. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache Buttercream:

  1. Heat 1 cup of heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl until steaming but not boiling.
  2. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate melts. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
  3. Allow the ganache to cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the cooled ganache, vanilla extract, and salt.
  5. Slowly add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and mix until smooth. If the buttercream feels too stiff, add a splash of heavy cream.

4. Assemble the Cake:

  1. Carefully invert the cooled cake onto a large piece of parchment paper.
  2. Spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the cake, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
  3. Roll the cake tightly from one short end to the other, using the parchment paper to guide you. Place the rolled cake seam-side down on a tray.

5. Decorate the Yule Log:

  1. Spread the chocolate ganache buttercream evenly over the rolled cake, creating a bark-like texture with a spatula or fork.
  2. Dust the log with powdered sugar to resemble snow.
  3. Decorate with sprigs of fresh rosemary and cranberries for a festive touch.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the cake and filling a day in advance. Assemble and frost the log on the day of serving.
  • Storage: Keep the yule log refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving.
  • Freezing Option: Wrap the finished log tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Texture Tip: Rolling the cake while it’s slightly warm helps prevent cracks. Use parchment paper for support.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French