French Vanilla Yule Log (Bûche de Noël) Recipe | Holiday Dessert

How Can You Make a Perfect French Vanilla Yule Log for the Holiday Season?

Introduction:

December is the month of giving, and what better way to share the joy of the season than by baking a French Vanilla Yule Log, or Bûche de Noël? This classic holiday dessert, filled with the rich flavor of vanilla and decorated to look like a log, is sure to bring warmth and sweetness to your holiday table. The delicate sponge cake and creamy filling, paired with the premium vanilla from NY Vanilla, make it a treat everyone will remember.

Ingredients:

For the Sponge Cake:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract from vanilla bean (available for purchase)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

For the French Vanilla Buttercream Filling:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon Vanilla bean paste
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• A pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 15x10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until thick and pale, about 5 minutes.
3. Gently fold in the vanilla extract, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Add the melted butter and mix until smooth.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.\
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly touched. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 2: Roll the Sponge Cake

1. Dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar. Turn the warm cake out onto the towel and peel off the parchment paper.
2. Starting from one edge, carefully roll the cake up in the towel. Let it cool completely in this rolled shape to prevent cracking.

Step 3: Prepare the Buttercream Filling

1. Beat the softened butter until smooth, then gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla bean paste, and a pinch of salt.
2. Add the heavy cream and continue to beat until the mixture is fluffy and light.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from the heat and pour it over the chopped chocolate.
2. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and the ganache is smooth. Stir in the butter and let it cool slightly.

Step 5: Assemble the Yule Log

1. Unroll the cooled cake and spread an even layer of the vanilla buttercream filling over the entire surface.
2. Carefully roll the cake back up, this time without the towel. Place it seam-side down on a serving platter.
3. Pour the chocolate ganache over the rolled cake, spreading it evenly. If you like, use a fork to create a bark-like texture on the ganache.
4. Dust with powdered sugar to mimic snow and optionally decorate with small edible holly leaves or fondant mushrooms for an extra festive touch.

Serving Suggestions:

1. Slice and serve the Yule log as a festive dessert after your holiday dinner, pairing it with a warm cup of tea or mulled wine.
2. For a beautiful presentation, place the Yule log on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or berries.
3. This dessert is perfect for sharing with family and friends, making it a lovely gift to bring to holiday parties or gatherings.

Conclusion:

The French Vanilla Yule Log (Bûche de Noël) is more than just a delicious dessert – it’s a celebration of tradition, flavor, and the spirit of giving. With the rich taste of NY Vanilla, this treat will bring warmth and sweetness to your December festivities. Whether you’re making it for your family or gifting it to loved ones, this Yule log is sure to be a holiday favorite for years to come. May this season of giving be filled with joy, delicious treats, and wonderful memories!

What’s your favorite part of the Yule Log (Bûche de Noël)?

• The soft sponge cake 
• The creamy vanilla buttercream filling 
• The rich chocolate ganache 
• The festive decorations 

Let us know in the comments! We'd love to hear what makes this dessert special for you!

Whether it's your first time making a Yule log or a yearly tradition, we can’t wait to see your beautiful creations and celebrate the spirit of the season with you. Spread the holiday cheer with your friends and family by sharing the recipe too!

May your holiday season be filled with joy, delicious treats, and wonderful memories!

Don’t forget to tag us @newyorkvanilla.