Red Velvet Yule Log

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that brings joy and festivity to any gathering, the Red Velvet Yule Log is your answer! This delightful treat is not only visually stunning with its vibrant red hue, but it also offers a heavenly combination of flavors. The soft sponge cake rolled with a creamy honey-sweetened cream cheese filling is pure bliss, making it perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy family dinners. Trust me, this recipe has become a beloved favorite in my home, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this Red Velvet Yule Log is surprisingly simple to make. It’s an impressive centerpiece that will wow your guests without keeping you in the kitchen all day. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s create something truly special together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Beautiful presentation: The striking red color and decorative buttercream bark make this log cake perfect for festive occasions.
• Delicious flavor: The rich cream cheese filling combined with the light sponge creates a delectable balance that everyone will enjoy.
• Family-friendly: This dessert is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike, making it ideal for gatherings.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the yule log in advance and store it in the fridge, freeing up time on busy days.
• Customizable toppings: Feel free to add your favorite fruits or nuts for extra flair and flavor!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this Red Velvet Yule Log is part of the fun! You’ll find these simple, wholesome items at your local grocery store. Let’s take a look at what you need to create this festive masterpiece.

For the sponge:

• 3 medium eggs (165 g)
• 3 medium egg yolks (45 g)
• 3/4 cup (150 g) sugar
• 3 cups (150 g) type 00 flour
• 1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped
• 1 tbsp (10 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• Red food coloring (liposoluble liquid, gel, or powder), to taste

For the filling:

• 3 cups (500 g) cream cheese
• 2/3 cup (150 g) heavy cream
• 2 tbsp (50 g) wildflower honey

For the decoration:

• 1 cup (400 g) cold butter
• 2 tsp (10 g) Sambuca (or vanilla extract as substitute)
• 1 cup (100 g) powdered sugar + extra for sprinkling
• Raspberries, to taste
• Star anise, to taste

Variations

This Red Velvet Yule Log recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted to suit your tastes! Here are some fun ideas:

• Add citrus zest: A touch of orange or lemon zest in the cream cheese filling adds a bright twist.
• Switch up the sweetener: Try maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor profile.
• Incorporate chocolate: Add mini chocolate chips into the filling for an extra chocolatey surprise!
• Go nutty: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch.

How to Make Red Velvet Yule Log

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 374°F (190°C). Line a 12×16 inch baking pan with parchment paper and give it a light buttering. This ensures that your sponge cake releases easily after baking.

Step 2: Whisk Ingredients Together

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla seeds until they are pale and frothy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your sponge that lovely light texture. Add red food coloring until you achieve your desired shade of red velvet.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift in the flour and cocoa powder gently into your egg mixture. It’s important to fold them in carefully so you don’t deflate all that wonderful air you just created. A light touch here makes all the difference!

Step 4: Bake Your Sponge

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan and pop it in the oven for about 20 minutes. While it bakes, enjoy that delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Step 5: Cool Down

As soon as it’s out of the oven, transfer your sponge onto parchment paper. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it cool completely. This helps keep it moist and makes rolling easier later on.

Step 6: Make That Filling

While waiting for your sponge to cool down, beat together cream cheese, heavy cream, and honey until smooth and fluffy. This creamy filling is what makes each bite of yule log so delightful!

Step 7: Roll It Up

Trim any rough edges off your cooled sponge. Spread an even layer of that luscious cream cheese filling across it before carefully rolling it up using parchment paper as guidance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours so it holds its shape nicely.

Step 8: Create Your Log Effect

When ready to serve, cut both ends of the roll diagonally; position these pieces as branches on either side of your log for that rustic effect.

Step 9: Whip Up Your Buttercream

Beat cold butter with powdered sugar until fluffy. Mix in Sambuca or vanilla extract until smooth—this will give you a beautiful frosting that’s easy to work with.

Step 10: Frost & Decorate

Lightly frost your rolled yule log with buttercream then pipe lines across its surface for bark texture. Finish by decorating with fresh raspberries and star anise along with a dusting of powdered sugar—now it’s truly festive!

Enjoy every slice of this beautiful Red Velvet Yule Log!

Pro Tips for Making Red Velvet Yule Log

Creating a stunning Red Velvet Yule Log is easier than it seems! With a few helpful tips, you can ensure your dessert is both delicious and visually appealing.

• Use fresh eggs: Fresh eggs whip up better, creating a lighter sponge. This will help your cake rise beautifully and maintain an airy texture.
• Don’t skip the parchment: Lining your baking pan with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes it easy to roll the sponge without tearing. It’s a small step that can save you a lot of trouble!
• Cool completely before filling: Allowing the sponge to cool completely helps prevent the filling from melting, ensuring a neat roll. A warm sponge can lead to a messy outcome!
• Chill after rolling: Refrigerating the rolled sponge for at least two hours firms it up, making it easier to slice and decorate. This gives you the perfect log shape for serving.
• Experiment with colors: The amount of red food coloring can be adjusted based on your preference. Feel free to play around with it to achieve the vibrant red hue that suits your festive table!

How to Serve Red Velvet Yule Log

Presenting your Red Velvet Yule Log can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make this dessert stand out at your holiday gatherings.

Garnishes

• Fresh Raspberries: Their tartness complements the sweetness of the yule log beautifully, adding a pop of color.
• Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle adds a snowy effect, enhancing the festive look of your dessert.
• Edible Flowers: These can add an elegant touch and vibrant colors that contrast nicely against the red velvet.

Side Dishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: This dairy-free alternative provides a light and fluffy accompaniment to balance out the richness of your yule log.
• Chocolate Mousse: The creamy texture and deep flavor contrast perfectly with the sweetness of the yule log, creating an indulgent experience.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers a light, tangy counterpoint that cleanses the palate after each slice of rich cake.
• Spiced Apple Cider: Serve this warm beverage alongside for a cozy pairing that enhances the holiday spirit. Its warmth and spiciness will complement every bite beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to impressing your guests with this delightful Red Velvet Yule Log! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Red Velvet Yule Log is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful dessert without the last-minute rush during the festive season. You can make it ahead of time, store it properly, and have it ready for any holiday gathering or special occasion.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover yule log in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Ensure it is wrapped tightly with plastic wrap to maintain its moisture.
• Enjoy leftovers within 3-4 days for optimal taste and texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the yule log tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• This dessert is best served chilled or at room temperature; no reheating is necessary.
• If you prefer a slightly warm treat, leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious Red Velvet Yule Log.

Can I use a different filling for my Red Velvet Yule Log?

Absolutely! While the creamy honey-sweetened cream cheese filling is delightful, you can experiment with other fillings such as whipped cream or chocolate ganache to suit your taste.

How do I achieve the perfect red color in my Red Velvet Yule Log?

The key to achieving that striking red color lies in using high-quality red food coloring. Gel or powder forms often yield better results than liquid food coloring. Add gradually until you reach your desired shade!

Can I decorate my Red Velvet Yule Log differently?

Certainly! Feel free to get creative with your decorations. You could add edible glitter, chocolate shavings, or even fresh mint leaves for a festive touch.

How long does it take to make a Red Velvet Yule Log?

From start to finish, this recipe requires about 5 hours and 20 minutes, including prep time and chilling time. It’s worth every minute when you see how beautiful and delicious it turns out!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Red Velvet Yule Log brings joy and sweetness to your holiday celebrations! It’s a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the process of making it—there’s something truly special about creating a festive treat from scratch. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe; may your holidays be filled with love, laughter, and lots of delicious moments!