Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe

Picture this: the heartwarming flavors of classic tiramisu transformed into a festive, show-stopping centerpiece. The Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe is a whimsical holiday dessert that’s both elegant and approachable, blending creamy mascarpone-style frosting, bold coffee notes, and a soft, airy sponge all rolled up and dressed for a winter wonderland. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or as a joyful “wow” moment at the end of your Christmas feast. If you love holiday baking with a touch of magic, you simply have to try this dazzling version of two classic desserts wrapped into one!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be intimidated by the list—each ingredient in the Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe is simple yet absolutely essential for creating that signature blend of light cake, rich coffee, and creamy filling topped with delightful woodland decorations. Every part of this cake works in harmony to deliver both the classic tiramisu flavor and the playful charm of a Christmas yule log.

• Eggs: Room temperature eggs whip up fluffier, giving your sponge cake its signature airy texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens each component and helps stabilize the cake and frosting layers.
• Vanilla Extract: Just a splash deepens the flavor of the sponge and the frosting.
• All-Purpose Flour: Keeps the cake light while providing enough structure to roll beautifully.
• Strong Coffee: The heart of tiramisu, adding robust flavor and creating that unmistakable coffee aroma.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipped until billowy, this makes the frosting silky and lush.
• Cream Cheese: Brings a gentle tang and classic tiramisu richness to the frosting layer.
• Chocolate Ganache: Spreads easily over the log, creating the “bark” effect that’s both delicious and decorative.
• Meringue Mushrooms: Adds woodland charm—optional but highly recommended for that storybook look!
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: A dusting gives authentic tiramisu vibes and enhances visual appeal.
• Finely Chopped Pistachios: Optional, but they add color and a lovely crunch reminiscent of moss on a log.
• Oreo Cookies (filling removed and crushed): Makes perfect “dirt” for a whimsical woodland presentation.

How to Make Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake

Starting with the base, the cake roll, is like laying the foundation for a gorgeous holiday creation. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a 15×21-inch rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make rolling a breeze.

Step 2: Whip Eggs and Sugar

In a stand mixer, beat the eggs on high for one minute, then gradually add in the sugar. Continue to whip for about five minutes until the mixture turns thick, pale, and fluffy. This process is what gives your cake a light-as-air texture.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Sift your flour in thirds over the egg mixture, folding gently after each addition to avoid deflating all that precious air. Finish by folding in vanilla extract until just combined. This careful mixing keeps the cake tender and pliable for rolling later on.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Spread the batter evenly onto your prepared baking sheet and bake for 12 to 14 minutes. Keep an eye out—it’s ready when golden and set. Overbaking can make rolling tricky, so check early!

Step 5: Roll the Cake

As soon as it comes out of the oven, loosen the edges, flip the cake onto a fresh sheet of parchment, and then, using the parchment, roll the cake up from the short end. This “memory” roll keeps the sponge flexible without cracking when filled later. Let it cool completely at room temperature.

Step 6: Make Coffee Syrup

Combine your strong coffee with the sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves. This syrup will infuse the cake with classic tiramisu flavor and keep it moist.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

Start by chilling your mixing bowl and whisk attachment for 15 minutes, then whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with sugar until smooth and fluffy, then fold in the whipped cream for the dreamiest tiramisu-inspired frosting.

Step 8: Assemble the Yule Log

Gently unroll your cooled sponge and peel off the parchment. Generously brush the inside with your coffee syrup, then spread a thick, even layer of frosting right to the edges. Roll it up tightly, trimming the ends for a clean look, and slice off one end on a diagonal for your “branch.” Move your log to a platter and attach the branch piece for authentic yule log shape.

Step 9: Frost the Cake

Spread the chocolate ganache over the log, leaving the ends exposed for that unmistakable cake roll look. Drag a fork through the ganache to create the appearance of rustic tree bark—the details are part of the fun!

Step 10: Decorate

Finish with a dusting of cocoa powder, a sprinkle of Oreo “dirt” around the base, and chopped pistachios as edible moss. Don’t forget to arrange those charming meringue mushrooms for the final whimsical flourish.

How to Serve Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe

 

Garnishes

Garnish is everything here! Go big with a generous cocoa powder dusting, a scattering of chopped pistachios for festive color, and a ring of crushed Oreos for “forest floor” effect. The meringue mushrooms are the pièce de résistance—whimsical, crunchy, and sure to draw oohs and ahhs from your guests.

Side Dishes

This cake is rich and satisfying, so pair it with something simple and bright. A bowl of juicy winter berries, lightly sweetened whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla gelato work perfectly without overwhelming your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For an unforgettable display, present your Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe on a rustic wooden board, surrounded by sprigs of fresh rosemary, sugared cranberries, or mini pinecones for a magical woodland effect. Consider cutting a few “slices” before serving so guests can see the beautiful roll and layers within.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover slices keep beautifully! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld and become even more pronounced, so the cake is just as delicious the next day—if not better!

Freezing

If you’d like to make the cake in advance, freeze the finished (undecorated) yule log tightly wrapped in plastic and foil for up to two months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge, then decorate with ganache and mushrooms before serving so everything stays crisp and picture-perfect.

Reheating

This cake is meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. There’s no need to reheat—just let it sit out for about 20–30 minutes before slicing to allow the flavors to shine and the texture to soften to perfection.

FAQs

Can I make the Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour with your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just double-check that all your decorations are gluten-free as well for a safe and delightful holiday treat.

Do I have to use strong coffee, or can I substitute?

While strong coffee is traditional for that unmistakable tiramisu punch, you can use decaf or even espresso if you want a deeper hit of flavor. For a non-coffee version, try soaking the sponge with a sweetened hot chocolate syrup.

Can I prepare the cake roll in advance?

Yes! You can bake, roll, and cool the cake a day ahead—just keep it wrapped in parchment to prevent drying. Assemble and decorate on the day you plan to serve for maximum freshness.

How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

Rolling while the sponge is still warm and wrapped in parchment paper is key. Let it cool rolled up—this helps it “remember” the log shape, so it’ll be flexible and less likely to crack when you add the filling.

What can I substitute for meringue mushrooms if I’m short on time?

No worries! Small store-bought meringue cookies, marshmallows, or even chocolate truffles can be used instead. They’ll add charm and a bit of whimsy without any extra fuss.

Final Thoughts

Few desserts capture the spirit of the season like this Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe. It’s a playful labor of love that blends nostalgia, festivity, and fabulous flavor in every slice. If you want to make your holiday table extra special, don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try and make it part of your most cherished celebrations!

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