Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe

Imagine giving the classic tiramisu a festive, magical spin and marrying it with a yule log—this Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe is truly a showstopper for your holiday table! This stunning dessert draws together pillowy sponge cake, rich espresso syrup, and a dreamy cream cheese whipped filling, all wrapped up in a chocolatey “bark” that looks almost too good to eat. Whether you’re hosting a grand feast or creating an intimate celebration, this cake brings both the wow factor and the luscious flavors of tiramisu in every slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love about this Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe is how a handful of everyday ingredients can be transformed into something absolutely extraordinary. Each element has a purpose: the eggs add fluff to the sponge, the coffee syrup gives depth and boldness, and the ganache makes everything look cozy and woodland-chic. Let’s break it down:

• Eggs: The backbone of the sponge, providing structure and a light, airy texture that will roll without cracking.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens every layer and helps build volume in the cake and cream.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complexity to the cake’s flavor—a little goes a long way.
• All-purpose flour: Gives just enough body to the sponge so it can hold the filling and be rolled up easily.
• Strong coffee: Essential for that unmistakable tiramisu vibe—make sure it’s robust and cooled.
• Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to fluffy peaks, it forms the luxurious creamy layer in the filling.
• Cream cheese: This is where the magic happens. It adds richness to the filling, reminiscent of the classic mascarpone.
• Chocolate ganache: The signature “bark” on your yule log—smooth, glossy, and absolutely irresistible.
• Meringue mushrooms: Fun, whimsical decorations that bring the woodland theme to life.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Just a dusting brings chocolate flavor and a rustic, snowy look.
• Finely chopped pistachios (optional): For a pop of green “moss”—this is your secret for a magical finish.
• Oreo cookies (filling removed and crushed): Makes the perfect “dirt” to nestle your log on.

How to Make Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake

The true foundation of the Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe is a soft, flexible sponge that can be rolled into that signature log shape. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to help turn out your cake effortlessly. In a stand mixer, whip the eggs until they’re light and frothy, gradually adding sugar so the mixture thickens into a pale ribbon. Gently sift in the flour in thirds, folding with a spatula so you keep all that wonderful air. A splash of vanilla ties it together. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake just until set and golden, about 12–14 minutes.

Step 2: Roll the Cake While Warm

As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, loosen the edges with a spatula and flip it onto a fresh sheet of parchment paper. To prevent cracking later, immediately roll the cake up (with the paper) from the short end into a log. Cooling it in this rolled-up shape ensures it’ll hold tight when you later add the filling. Let it reach room temperature before unrolling and filling.

Step 3: Make the Coffee Syrup

Nothing says tiramisu like a proper espresso kick! Stir a tablespoon of sugar into a cup of strong, cooled coffee until dissolved. Set this aside—you’ll brush every inch of sponge for that unmistakable tiramisu character.

Step 4: Whip Up the Creamy Filling

Chill your mixing bowl and whisk attachment for the fluffiest whipped cream. Beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then transfer it out. Now, beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and dreamy, and gently fold in the whipped cream. This is the creamy layer that makes this Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe unforgettable.

Step 5: Assemble the Yule Log

Carefully unroll your cooled cake and peel off the parchment. Brush the surface with coffee syrup—it’ll soak in and amp up the flavor. Spread an even layer of your whipped filling over the cake, then roll it up again, this time tightly and confidently, to lock in all that luscious cream. Trim the edges for a neat look and cut off a diagonal slice to create a branch. Place your cake on a serving platter, attaching the branch with a dab of frosting.

Step 6: Create the Chocolate Bark

It’s time for the ganache! Spread your cooled, glossy chocolate ganache over the log, leaving the ends bare to show off the spiral. Use a fork or skewer to drag lines and create a rustic “bark” texture—this is where the yule log magic really comes to life.

Step 7: Decorate Your Masterpiece

Go wild with the finishing touches! Dust the top with cocoa powder for a snowy look, sprinkle the Oreo “dirt” around the base, and tuck in meringue mushrooms for woodland whimsy. A shower of bright pistachios brings color and a “mossy” vibe. Your Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe is officially ready to wow!

How to Serve Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe

 

Garnishes

For that enchanting finish, be generous with your garnishes. A gentle snowfall of unsweetened cocoa powder brings classic tiramisu notes, while the pistachios and Oreo crumbs transform your platter into a miniature winter forest. Dotting with meringue mushrooms transports your guests to a fairytale. Sometimes, a sprig of fresh mint or a few sugared cranberries make it even more show-stopping.

Side Dishes

This cake is a star, but pairing it with something simple makes it shine even brighter. Offer small glasses of dessert wine or espresso for sipping. If you want to serve a light contrast, a bowl of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla gelato complements the richness perfectly, while still letting the Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe take center stage.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation is half the fun! Consider placing your cake on a rustic wooden board, surrounded by sugared rosemary “pine needles” for a woodland look. Mini fairy lights or edible gold leaf add a touch of holiday magic. If you’re celebrating with kids, set out extra “dirt” and mushrooms so they can embellish their own slice—it turns dessert into an activity!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your tiramisu yule log cake tasting as fresh as possible, cover any leftovers in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay moist and delicious for up to three days, and sometimes the flavors deepen even further with a little time! Just be sure to store it away from strong-smelling foods, so your hard work doesn’t absorb any fridge odors.

Freezing

If you want to get ahead for the holiday rush, this cake freezes beautifully! I recommend slicing it first and wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and tucking them into a freezer-safe bag. Defrost in the fridge overnight; you’ll be rewarded with ready-to-serve slices of the Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe whenever a craving hits.

Reheating

Generally, you don’t want to reheat this cake—the beauty is in enjoying it chilled. If it’s come straight from the freezer, simply leave it in the fridge overnight or let individual slices sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I make Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making the cake a day ahead allows the coffee syrup and cream filling to fully soak in, enhancing both flavor and texture. Assemble the cake as directed, then store it in the fridge until you’re ready to add decorations for serving.

What can I use instead of cream cheese in the filling?

If you’d like a more traditional tiramisu flavor, mascarpone cheese is a perfect substitute for cream cheese. It’s slightly sweeter and more delicate, which works beautifully in this Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe.

How do I keep the cake from cracking when rolling?

The most important thing is to roll the sponge cake while it’s still warm and flexible, right after baking. Using parchment paper as you roll helps, and taking care to not over-bake the cake will keep it supple and crack-free.

Can I skip the coffee for kids or non-coffee lovers?

Definitely! Substitute the strong coffee with a mix of milk and a splash of vanilla extract, or even use a light cocoa syrup. The Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe will still taste fantastic, just with a softer flavor.

Do I have to make the meringue mushrooms and ganache from scratch?

The homemade versions are delicious, but store-bought chocolate frosting and decorative meringues work in a pinch. The spirit of the yule log is in the assembly and presentation, so don’t stress—use what works for your holiday prep!

Final Thoughts

There’s something so magical about serving a homemade cake that looks every bit as beautiful as it tastes, and this Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe never fails to bring delight and holiday cheer. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a new centerpiece dessert, I can’t wait to hear how it turns out on your table. Gather some friends, make some coffee, and let’s celebrate with a slice!

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