If you’re looking to impress at your next holiday gathering, you need to try my Yule Log Sheet Cake! This easy and cozy dessert combines rich chocolate flavor with creamy frosting for a show-stopping treat. I’ll walk you through all the steps, from mixing the batter to adding festive decorations. Prepare for smiles and joy when you serve this delicious cake. Let’s get baking and make this holiday season unforgettable!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Rich Flavor: This Yule Log Delight Sheet Cake combines the deep flavors of cocoa and cream cheese, creating a decadent treat perfect for any celebration.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels, making it a stress-free addition to your holiday menu.
- Festive Presentation: The rustic texture created by swirling the frosting mimics a traditional Yule log, adding a charming touch to your holiday desserts.
- Serves a Crowd: This sheet cake yields generous portions, making it ideal for gatherings, parties, or simply to enjoy with family and friends during the festive season.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make this Yule Log Sheet Cake, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 4 large eggs
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– 1 cup warm water
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the cream cheese frosting, gather these ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (for rich color)
Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect cake. The flour gives structure, while the cocoa powder adds deep flavor. The eggs help bind everything together and add moisture. Vegetable oil keeps the cake tender, and vanilla extract enhances the sweetness.
When making the frosting, cream cheese and butter create a rich base. The powdered sugar adds sweetness and helps achieve the right texture. Cocoa powder in the frosting gives it a beautiful color and flavor.
Having all ingredients ready makes the process smooth. Always measure carefully for the best results. This cake is not just a treat; it is a festive centerpiece perfect for holiday fun!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the cake bake evenly. Grab a half-sheet pan (18×13 inches) and grease it lightly. Line the bottom with parchment paper. This makes it easy to lift the cake out later.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step adds air and helps blend the ingredients. It also ensures your cake has a nice texture.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, vegetable oil, warm water, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. This creates a nice base for your batter.
Baking
1. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix. Gently fold them together with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. This keeps your cake light and fluffy.
2. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Use the spatula to spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes. To check for doneness, stick a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
Cooling and Frosting
1. Cooling the Cake: Once the cake is done, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before you frost it. This step is key for a smooth finish.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until creamy. Use an electric mixer on medium speed. Gradually add the powdered sugar. Mix until it’s smooth. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract and cocoa powder for a rich flavor.
3. Assemble the Cake: After the cake is cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly on top. Use a spatula for a smooth finish. To create the Yule log effect, use a fork to make swirling lines in the frosting. You can also sprinkle powdered sugar or cocoa powder on top for a festive touch.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
To make your cake light and fluffy, focus on mixing. Start by sifting your dry ingredients well. This adds air and helps the cake rise. When you mix the wet and dry ingredients, fold them gently. This prevents overmixing. Overmixing can make the cake dense. A few lumps in the batter are okay. They won’t harm the final result.
Frosting Tips
For a smooth cream cheese frosting, make sure both the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature. This helps them blend easily. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for the best results. Gradually add the powdered sugar. This prevents lumps and gives you a creamy texture. Spread the frosting evenly across the cake with a spatula. Take your time to ensure it looks neat.
Decorating Tips
To create the Yule log effect, use a fork to draw lines in the frosting. This gives it a rustic look. You can also sprinkle powdered sugar or cocoa powder on top. This makes it look like fresh snow. Consider adding festive touches like holly leaves or chocolate shavings. These small details make your cake more inviting and fun for your holiday table.
Pro Tips
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cocoa powder and fresh eggs for the best flavor and texture in your Yule Log Delight Sheet Cake.
- Cool Completely: Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting and sliding off.
- Variations: Consider adding a layer of raspberry jam or orange zest to the frosting for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: For an elegant presentation, serve with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the cake.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the flavor of your Yule log sheet cake easily. Adding different extracts is a fun way to try new tastes. For example, a teaspoon of almond extract adds a nice nutty flavor. If you want a minty twist, add peppermint extract instead.
Using flavored cream cheese can also enhance the frosting. Chocolate cream cheese gives a rich taste. You can also try raspberry cream cheese for a fruity flavor. Both options make your cake unique and delightful.
Dietary Modifications
If you need a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead. This allows everyone to enjoy the cake without worry.
For vegan alternatives, replace the eggs with flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water for each egg. You can also use vegan butter in place of regular butter. These swaps keep the cake tasty and suitable for all diets.
Presentation Styles
Make your Yule log sheet cake look special for any occasion. Try placing holly leaves or edible flowers on top for decoration. You can also sprinkle crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
To serve, cut the cake into squares and place them on a pretty platter. Add a dusting of powdered sugar to mimic snow. This makes your cake not only delicious but also beautiful to look at.
Storage Info
Storing the Cake
To keep your Yule log sheet cake fresh, store it in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor. If you do not have a container, cover it tightly with plastic wrap. This method helps avoid drying out the cake.
If you have leftovers, you can freeze them too. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Be sure to label the bag with the date. This way, you can enjoy the cake later.
Shelf Life
The cake can last up to five days in the fridge. If stored properly, it stays fresh and tasty. Check for signs of spoilage before eating. Look for changes in color or texture. If the frosting looks dry or cracked, it is time to toss it.
In the freezer, the cake can stay good for about three months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving. Enjoy your delicious Yule log cake whenever you wish!
FAQs
Common Questions about Yule Log Sheet Cake
Can you make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this cake a day or two ahead. Just let it cool completely. Wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. This will keep it fresh for your holiday gathering.
What can I do if I don’t have all the ingredients?
If you lack an ingredient, don’t worry. You can often swap items. For example, if you don’t have eggs, use unsweetened applesauce. If you run out of cocoa powder, try carob powder for a different flavor.
Serving Suggestions
What drinks pair well with Yule log cake?
Yule log cake goes great with warm drinks. Hot cocoa is a classic choice. You can also serve it with spiced cider or a warm cup of tea. The flavors blend well with the rich cake.
How to serve with ice cream or whipped cream
Serve slices of cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess pairs well with the rich frosting. You can also top slices with whipped cream for a light touch. A sprinkle of cocoa powder adds a nice finish.
Additional Tips
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes! You can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture. Your cake will still be delicious and moist.
How can I make the cake decorations more elaborate?
Add fun decorations like edible glitter or holiday sprinkles. You could also use chocolate shavings for a fancy touch. Fresh berries or mint leaves can add color and flavor. Just let your creativity flow!
This blog post covers everything you need to make a delicious Yule log sheet cake. We discussed ingredients, baking steps, and tips for the perfect frosting. You learned about flavor and dietary variations and how to store your cake for later enjoyment.
Remember, baking is fun! Use these tips to create your own festive dessert. Enjoy your baking journey and let your creativity shin
