Celebrate the holiday season with a delightful Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake. This elegant dessert features a rich chocolate sponge cake rolled with a creamy chocolate filling and topped with luscious ganache. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it will impress your guests and make your celebrations even sweeter!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and creamy filling creates a dessert that everyone will love.
- Gluten-Free Delight: Made with gluten-free ingredients, this cake is suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Festive Presentation: Its beautiful log shape and decorative options make it visually appealing for any holiday table.
- Simple to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, this cake is easy to prepare and can be made in just over 30 minutes.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it chilled or at room temperature, making it perfect for any occasion.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Jelly roll pan (15×10 inches)
- Parchment paper
- Clean kitchen towel
- Electric mixer (optional)
- Small saucepan
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly.
- Jelly roll pan: Provides the right size and depth for rolling the cake easily.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when whipping cream or mixing batter.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup cocoa powder (gluten-free)
- ½ cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
For the Ganache
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for ganache)
- ½ cup heavy cream (for ganache)
How to Make Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Cake
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In another bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when gently pressed.
- Do not overbake.
Step 4: Roll the Cake
- As soon as the cake is out of the oven, dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar.
- Carefully invert the cake onto the towel and peel off the parchment paper.
- Starting from one short end, use the towel to roll the cake up tightly.
- Set aside to cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
In a bowl:
1. Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add in powdered sugar and unsweetened cocoa powder, beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 6: Unroll and Fill the Cake
- Once cooled, carefully unroll the cake.
- Spread chocolate filling evenly over its surface, leaving a small margin at edges.
- Roll back up without using towel; place seam-side down on serving platter.
Step 7: Make the Ganache
In a small saucepan:
1. Heat heavy cream until hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat; add semi-sweet chocolate chips, stirring until melted and smooth.
3. Allow cooling slightly before drizzling over rolled cake.
Step 8: Serve
Decorate your Yule log as desired with powdered sugar or create tree bark designs using a fork in ganache. Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your delightful Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake!
How to Serve Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake
Serving a Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake can elevate your holiday gatherings and create a festive atmosphere. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance this elegant dessert.
Pair with Fresh Berries
- Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a fresh burst of flavor that complements the rich chocolate.
Add Whipped Cream
- A dollop of freshly whipped cream on each slice enhances the cake’s creaminess and adds a light texture.
Garnish with Mint Leaves
- Fresh mint leaves provide a vibrant color contrast and a refreshing taste that balances the sweetness.
Dust with Powdered Sugar
- A light sprinkle of powdered sugar not only beautifies the cake but also adds an extra touch of sweetness.
Serve with Ice Cream
- Pairing slices of the Yule log with vanilla or mint chocolate chip ice cream creates a delicious contrast in temperatures.
Create Chocolate Drizzle
- Drizzling extra chocolate ganache over the top offers an indulgent finishing touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
How to Perfect Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake
To ensure your Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake turns out perfectly, consider these useful tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps in achieving a smooth batter and better texture in your cake.
- Don’t overmix: Gently folding in the dry ingredients keeps the batter airy, resulting in a light sponge cake.
- Check for doneness: Use the spring-back method to determine if the cake is done. It should not leave indentations when gently pressed.
- Cool completely before filling: Allowing the cake to cool ensures it won’t tear when you roll it up with the filling.
- Wrap tightly when rolling: Using a clean kitchen towel helps maintain shape and prevents cracks during rolling.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerating your Yule log for an hour after assembling allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake
Enhancing your dessert spread can make your celebration even more memorable. Here are some great side dishes to serve alongside your Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake.
- Festive Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like pomegranate, citrus, and apple creates a refreshing contrast.
- Chocolate Mousse: Rich and creamy, this dessert pairs perfectly with the Yule log’s flavors for an indulgent experience.
- Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg provide a crunchy, savory option that balances sweetness.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce complements the richness of chocolate, offering a delightful flavor balance.
- Cheesecake Bites: Small bites of cheesecake add variety without overshadowing the main dessert.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Classic holiday cookies bring warm spices that mesh well with chocolate desserts.
- Pecan Pie Bars: These bars offer both crunch and sweetness, making them an excellent addition to your dessert table.
- Hot Cocoa Bar: Set up a hot cocoa station with marshmallows, whipped cream, and peppermint sticks for guests to enjoy alongside dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the perfect dessert.
- Skipping the Parchment Paper: Not lining the pan with parchment can lead to sticking. Always grease and line your pan properly.
- Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined.
- Not Cooling Properly: Rolling the cake while it’s still warm can cause it to crack. Allow it to cool completely before unrolling.
- Using Regular Cocoa Powder: Ensure your cocoa powder is gluten-free. Double-check labels if necessary to avoid cross-contamination.
- Ignoring Ganache Temperature: If the ganache is too hot, it will slide off. Let it cool slightly before drizzling over your cake.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For best quality, place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking.
Freezing Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C). Warm wrapped cake for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for 10-15 seconds until just warm.
- Stovetop: Use a double boiler method; place slices in a heat-safe dish over simmering water until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake special?
This cake is not only gluten-free but also features a rich chocolate flavor and creamy filling, making it a festive treat for everyone.
Can I use other fillings for my Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fillings like fruit preserves or mascarpone cream for variety.
How do I decorate my Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake?
You can dust with powdered sugar, add fresh berries, or create tree bark designs with a fork in the ganache for an elegant touch.
Can I make this Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freeze it for longer storage.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
No, this recipe contains eggs and dairy. However, you can explore vegan alternatives if needed, such as aquafaba for eggs and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Final Thoughts
This Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake is a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays with family and friends. Its rich flavors and beautiful presentation make it an impressive dessert that everyone will enjoy. Feel free to customize your filling and decorations to create your own unique version. Try making this delightful treat today!
Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Celebrate the festive season with a delightful Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake, an elegant dessert that will be the highlight of your holiday gatherings. This rich chocolate sponge cake is rolled with a creamy chocolate filling and topped with a luscious ganache, creating a visually stunning centerpiece that tastes as good as it looks. Perfect for those with gluten sensitivities, this easy-to-make recipe only takes about 30 minutes of preparation, making it an accessible treat for bakers of all skill levels. Delight your family and friends with this indulgent dessert that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup cocoa powder (gluten-free)
- ½ cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup heavy cream (for filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for filling)
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for ganache)
- ½ cup heavy cream (for ganache)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan lined with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until light and fluffy; add vanilla.
- Sift cocoa powder, gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl. Fold into egg mixture until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan; bake for 12-15 minutes or until it springs back when pressed gently.
- Dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar and invert the cake onto it; peel off parchment paper.
- Roll cake tightly using the towel; cool completely.
- Whip heavy cream for filling until soft peaks form; gradually mix in powdered sugar and cocoa powder, then stir in vanilla.
- Unroll cooled cake, spread filling evenly, and reroll without using the towel. Place seam-side down on a platter.
- Heat cream for ganache until hot but not boiling; add chocolate chips and stir until melted and smooth. Cool slightly before drizzling over the cake.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 80g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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