Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe
If ever there was a holiday dessert that could capture the magic of Christmas and the flavor of your favorite Italian treat, it’s this Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe. Imagine pillowy-soft sponge cake layered with creamy mascarpone-inspired filling, soaked with coffee syrup, and cloaked in a rich chocolate ganache, all artfully rolled to look like a festive yule log. Whether it’s the star of your Christmas table or a surprise for friends at a cozy winter gathering, this cake brings holiday nostalgia and gourmet delight together for one unforgettable showstopper.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s wonderful about the Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe is that its ingredients are straightforward but each plays a vital part—creating a cake that’s light, rich, and beautifully balanced in flavor and texture. Gather these pantry staples and a few special touches for decorations, and you’re on your way to making dessert magic.
- Eggs: Room temperature eggs whip up best, creating a stable sponge that’s light yet sturdy enough to roll.
- Granulated sugar: Used throughout for sweetness in the cake, syrup, and frosting—don’t skimp!
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash brings out those classic dessert aromas and ties all the flavors together.
- All-purpose flour: Gives structure to the sponge but keeps it tender—sift it for the fluffiest cake.
- Strong coffee: Brewed and cooled, it infuses the cake with that iconic tiramisu flavor.
- Heavy whipping cream: Chilled for easy whipping, it makes the frosting airy and rich.
- Cream cheese: Room temperature cream cheese provides a smooth, tangy base for the creamy filling.
- Chocolate ganache: Cooled to room temp so it spreads easily and forms that signature log “bark.”
- Meringue mushrooms: Optional but absolutely adorable for a woodland touch that wows on the dessert table.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Perfect for that final dust that evokes snowy forests and adds a hint of drama.
- Finely chopped pistachios: Totally optional, but a sprinkle here mimics moss—so charming and adds crunch.
- Oreo cookie “dirt”: A playful, crunchy garnish that transforms your cake into a woodland scene.
How to Make Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake
This is where the magic starts. Whipping up a feather-light sponge cake might seem intimidating, but with the right technique, it’s a cinch! The trick is to incorporate plenty of air—so your yule log rolls smoothly without cracking. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a 15×21-inch rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Setting up your pan ahead of time ensures your batter doesn’t have to wait.
Step 2: Whip Eggs and Sugar
Using a stand mixer makes this step a breeze! Beat six eggs on high for about a minute before gradually adding 2/3 cup of sugar. Continue mixing for five more minutes until the mixture is pale, thick, and ribbons when you lift the beater—this structure is key for a fluffy, flexible sponge.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gentle folding is your friend here. Sift the flour in thirds over the airy egg mixture and fold softly after each addition. Add the vanilla, then fold again, stopping as soon as the ingredients are combined. Over-mixing can deflate your batter, so treat it with care.
Step 4: Bake and Roll the Cake
Spread the batter evenly onto your prepared baking sheet, smoothing the top with an offset spatula. Bake for 12-14 minutes until golden and just springy. Once out of the oven, loosen the edges and turn the cake onto a fresh piece of parchment. Quickly roll the cake with the parchment into a log (from the short end), then let it cool completely—this step sets the shape without cracks.
Step 5: Make the Coffee Syrup
This syrup is the soul of any tiramisu. Mix one cup of strong brewed coffee and a tablespoon of sugar in a bowl, stirring until dissolved. Let it cool to room temperature—chilled coffee soaks into the sponge perfectly.
Step 6: Prepare the Frosting
For that dreamy, cloud-like filling, start by chilling your mixing bowl and whisk. Whip 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream until stiff peaks form—set aside. Then, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar until fluffy, and fold in your whipped cream. The result is pure tiramisu bliss!
Step 7: Assemble the Yule Log
Now comes the fun part. Gently unroll the cooled cake and peel away the parchment. Use a brush to generously soak the inside with coffee syrup, infusing every bite. Spread on a thick, even layer of frosting. Roll it up tightly again, trim the ends, and slice one end at an angle for your “branch.” Place the finished roll on a platter and attach the angled piece with more frosting—it’s already looking like Christmas!
Step 8: Frost and Decorate the Cake
Slather your cooled chocolate ganache over the cake, leaving the ends exposed. Run a fork along the ganache to mimic tree bark—this detail turns your Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe into a wintry masterpiece. Dust with cocoa, sprinkle on pistachios, and arrange meringue mushrooms and Oreo dirt at the base for a magical woodland scene.
How to Serve Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe
Garnishes
The little touches make this yule log truly enchanting. Dust the surface with cocoa powder, let some “fall” on the plate, and scatter meringue mushrooms and pistachio “moss” for a rustic, fairytale look. A scattering of Oreo crumbs evokes the forest floor. Each bite looks as magical as it tastes!
Side Dishes
Since the Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe is rich and creamy, pair it with something light or refreshingly tart. A scoop of raspberry sorbet, a bowl of fresh berries, or delicate biscotti are perfect companions that complement the flavors without overwhelming your dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to go all-out with presentation! Place the log atop a rustic wooden board, nestle it among pine sprigs and cranberries, or lay edible gold leaf or sugar snowflakes for added holiday sparkle. Customized name tags for each slice make it personal and special, turning dessert into a celebratory centerpiece everyone will remember.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which honestly, is rare!), simply cover the log with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors meld together beautifully as it chills, and the cake stays moist and delicious.
Freezing
This Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe can be made ahead and frozen, making December a little less frantic. Assemble and decorate the log, then place it on a tray in the freezer until firm. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving and add fresh garnishes just before presenting.
Reheating
Since this cake is enjoyed chilled, there’s no need to reheat! If serving from frozen, allow the log to thaw completely in the fridge for the best texture. Avoid the microwave—just a little patience is all you need for a perfect slice.
FAQs
Can I use mascarpone instead of cream cheese in the frosting?
Absolutely! If you want to stick closer to traditional tiramisu flavors, swap the cream cheese for mascarpone in the filling. It creates a slightly richer texture and that classic, subtle tang.
How far in advance can I assemble the Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe?
You can assemble the yule log up to two days in advance. Just add the finishing garnishes right before serving so they look their freshest.
Is it possible to make this cake without coffee?
If you want to omit coffee for kids or non-coffee drinkers, try using a mix of cocoa and milk or even a decaffeinated brew. The cake will still be moist, flavorful, and reminiscent of tiramisu!
Can I decorate the cake with store-bought meringue mushrooms?
Yes! Store-bought meringue mushrooms are a fantastic shortcut and look just as charming. Or, let little helpers make their own for a fun family activity.
What’s the best way to slice the Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe cleanly?
Use a long, sharp serrated knife and wipe it clean between slices. This ensures pretty, clean cuts with beautifully defined layers every time.
Final Thoughts
This Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe is more than just dessert—it’s a festive tradition in the making. Trust me, once you bring this whimsical, luscious cake to your holiday table, you’ll want to make it a December ritual. Happy baking and merry celebrations!
Print
Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 1 Yule Log Cake (about 12 servings) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the festive spirit with this Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake recipe. A delightful combination of fluffy sponge cake, coffee syrup, creamy frosting, and decadent chocolate ganache, this dessert is sure to be the star of your holiday table.
Ingredients
Cake Roll:
- 6 large eggs, room temperature
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Coffee Syrup:
- 1 cup strong coffee, room temperature or chilled
- 1 Tbsp granulated sugar
Frosting:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Topping/Decorations:
- 1 recipe Chocolate Ganache (cooled to room temp)
- 1 recipe Meringue Mushrooms
- 1 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped pistachios (optional)
- 6 Oreo cookies (filling removed and crushed for ‘dirt’)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sponge Cake: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a 15×21-inch baking sheet with parchment paper. Beat eggs and sugar, fold in flour and vanilla. Bake until golden. Roll the cake.
- Make Coffee Syrup: Combine coffee and sugar.
- Make the Frosting: Whip cream until stiff peaks form. Beat cream cheese and sugar together, then fold in whipped cream.
- Assemble the Yule Log: Unroll cake, brush with coffee syrup, spread frosting, re-roll tightly, and trim.
- Frost the Cake: Spread chocolate ganache over the cake.
- Decorate: Dust with cocoa powder, add Oreo ‘dirt,’ sprinkle pistachios, and place meringue mushrooms.
Notes
- This recipe requires a bit of assembly but is worth the effort for its stunning presentation.
- Feel free to get creative with the decorations to suit your holiday theme.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking, Mixing
- Cuisine: Christmas, Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (assuming 12 slices)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Tiramisu Yule Log, Christmas Cake, Holiday Dessert, Yule Log Recipe
