10 twists on classic yule log
The classic yule log is a popular festive dessert that's stood the test of time. Try our classic chocolate log and 10 fun twists this Christmas
Synonymous with Christmas, the classic yule log (or Bûche de Noël) – a moist swiss roll covered with delicious icing – is a popular festive treat. Popular across Europe, its exact origin is unclear, however a traditional one puts chocolate front and centre stage with a cream-filled chocolate sponge and textured chocolate icing to give a bark-like effect. Often adorned with holly, ivy and a dusting of icing sugar, it makes a beautiful wintry centrepiece to round off any Christmas dinner.
Start with our classic yule log recipe, then try these original twists on the classic bake which include a moreish salted caramel icing, a splash of Drambuie liqueur for an adult twist and a baked Alaska variation. Still in need of yuletide inspiration? Find even more yule log recipes.
1. Next level yule log
Barney Desmazery elevates the classic yule log to decadent heights with festive spices, an indulgent brandy butter filling and chocolate truffle icing. Decorate with white chocolate leaves sprayed with edible gold lustre for extra glitz and glamour. Check out our 10 tips to ensure a top tier yule log.
2. Christmas salted caramel yule log
Calling all salted caramel lovers – this yule log has a double helping of the sweet and salty spread. Find it dotted throughout the sponge as well as whipped into the icing filling. Try all of our salted caramel bakes here.
3. Chocolate yule log
This yule log may look rather simple from the exterior - but appearances can be deceiving. The creamy filling contains crushed up extra strong mints for a refreshing contrast to the moist chocolate sponge. Find more minty inspiration here.
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4. Gingerbread Bûche de Noël
For a festive makeover, this log is flavoured with ginger, cinnamon, treacle and golden syrup. The icing also boasts stem ginger syrup for a warming winter centrepiece. If you're still craving more, we've got no shortage of gingerbread recipes and gingerbread house recipes.
5. Bûche de Noël
Paul Hollywood's chocolate log brings raspberries into the cream filling for a twist that leans towards the Swiss roll. To take it one step further, you can also add a splash of whisky liqueur. For more alcohol-spiked treats, discover our boozy bakes.
6. Gluten-free pavlova meringue log
A refreshing way to round off your Christmas meal, this gluten-free meringue roulade is filled with fresh cream and berries. Shavings of white chocolate adorn the crunchy meringue for a final festive flourish. Can't get enough? See all of our gluten-free bakes and roulade recipes.
7. Chocolate & clementine log
Everyone loves the flavour and smell of clementines at Christmas, and the chocolate sponge provides the perfect counterbalance to the fruity acidity. It can also be made a day in advance to take the stress out of the big day itself. Discover our chocolate orange recipes if you're still hankering for more.
8. Chocolate hazelnut yule log with meringue mushrooms
Let your little chefs take the helm on this recipe – they'll love to make the mini meringue mushrooms which come sprouting out from the chocolate bark icing. Chocolate hazelnut spread is added into the batter to make a dessert that's sure to be gone in minutes. Find more Christmas baking projects for kids.
9. Alaskan yule log
Baked Alaska and Arctic roll come together to create a marriage in festive dessert heaven – Alaskan yule log. A frozen ice cream centre is surrounded by chocolate log and topped with toasted meringue – could it get more Christmassy? For more retro desserts, here's our top 10.
10. Passion fruit, chocolate & coconut roulade
For a tropical twist this Christmas, this roulade combines the classic chocolate log with passion fruit and coconut. Decorated with coconut flakes, it makes a stunning Christmas showstopper. We've got even more coconut recipes and passion fruit recipes if you can't get enough.
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