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:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12×18-inch baking sheet and line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, sour cream, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually mix in the chocolate cake mix until no lumps remain.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the surface.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
2. Make the Whipped Cream Filling:
- In a chilled mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar.
- Beat with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Refrigerate the whipped cream until needed.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache Buttercream:
- Heat 1 cup of heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl until steaming but not boiling.
- Pour the hot cream over the chocolate melts. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Allow the ganache to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the cooled ganache, vanilla extract, and salt.
- 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:
- Carefully invert the cooled cake onto a large piece of parchment paper.
- Spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the cake, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- 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:
- Spread the chocolate ganache buttercream evenly over the rolled cake, creating a bark-like texture with a spatula or fork.
- Dust the log with powdered sugar to resemble snow.
- 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