Name: Chocolate Brownies Yule Log
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 large eggs; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/4 cups heavy cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 1/4 cups chocolate chips or chopped chocolate; 1/2 cup heavy cream (for ganache)

This Chocolate Brownies Yule Log is the ultimate festive showstopper that combines everything we love about a rich chocolate dessert with the elegance of a holiday classic. Imagine a soft and decadent brownie sponge rolled with a silky cream filling, all wrapped in a glossy chocolate ganache that melts in your mouth. Topped with sugared cranberries or festive truffles, it’s as beautiful as it is indulgent.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just looking to impress your guests with a memorable treat, this yule log is a surefire hit. It delivers deep chocolate flavor, a luscious texture, and eye-catching presentation, making it the centerpiece of any dessert table during the holidays.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Brownies Yule Log

Brownie-like sponge: Richer and more fudgy than a typical cake roll.
Festive elegance: Perfect for Christmas, New Year, or any winter celebration.
Make-ahead friendly: Can be prepped the day before and chilled.
Customizable toppings: Add sugared cranberries, peppermint pieces, or chocolate curls.

If you’re a chocolate lover, this will quickly become a seasonal favorite.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating this Chocolate Brownies Yule Log involves baking a thin, flexible brownie sponge, preparing a whipped filling, and finishing with ganache. Here’s what you’ll need:

Jelly Roll Pan: Essential for baking a thin sponge that rolls easily. A standard 10×15-inch pan works perfectly.
Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes unmolding seamless.
Offset Spatula: Spreads the batter evenly and helps with filling distribution.
Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Whips the filling to fluffy perfection.
Clean Kitchen Towel: Used for rolling the warm cake to help it “learn” the rolled shape without cracking.

Having everything prepped before you start helps ensure a smooth and enjoyable baking process.

Ingredients for the Chocolate Brownies Yule Log

Each ingredient plays a key role in building this luscious yule log:

Eggs: Provide structure and flexibility to the sponge layer.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped eggs.
All-purpose Flour: Light structure without weighing down the sponge.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds deep chocolate flavor.
Baking Powder: Gives just enough lift without making the sponge too thick.
Salt: Enhances all the chocolatey notes.
Butter: Adds richness and moisture.
Vanilla Extract: Balances the deep cocoa with warm flavor.
Heavy Cream: For whipping into a creamy, cloud-like filling.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the whipped filling.
Chocolate Chips or Chopped Chocolate: Used for the glossy ganache coating.

How To Make the Chocolate Brownies Yule Log

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Sponge

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it. In a mixing bowl, beat eggs and sugar until thick and pale. Sift in flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold until combined. Add melted butter and vanilla, then mix until smooth. Spread evenly into the pan and bake for 10-12 minutes.

Step 2: Roll the Warm Cake

While still warm, carefully turn the cake out onto a clean towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment and gently roll the cake with the towel from the short end. Let it cool completely while rolled—this prevents cracking later.

Step 3: Make the Cream Filling

In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Keep it chilled until ready to use.

Step 4: Fill and Re-roll

Once the sponge has cooled, gently unroll and spread the whipped cream evenly across the surface. Re-roll the cake tightly (without the towel) and place seam-side down on a serving tray.

Step 5: Coat with Ganache

Melt chocolate and heavy cream together until smooth. Let cool slightly, then pour or spread the ganache over the log. Use an offset spatula to create a bark-like texture if desired. Chill until set.

Step 6: Decorate

Top with sugared cranberries, edible glitter, chocolate shavings, or festive sprinkles for a beautiful holiday finish.

How to Serve and Store Your Yule Log

Serving:
Slice using a warm, sharp knife for clean cuts. Serve chilled or allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly. Pair with a dusting of powdered sugar or fresh berries on the side.

Storing:
Store the yule log covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it from drying out, wrap it loosely in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It also freezes well for up to one month—just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this yule log in advance?

Yes! It actually improves in texture after chilling for a few hours or overnight. Just add decorative toppings shortly before serving.

My cake cracked when rolling. What went wrong?

Cracks can happen if the cake is overbaked or not rolled while still warm. Make sure to roll it up with a towel right after baking.

Can I use a boxed brownie mix?

Boxed mixes are too dense for this purpose. You need a lighter sponge-like brownie for successful rolling.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the filling?

You can use whipped coconut cream or mascarpone cheese for a different twist.

Can I flavor the filling or ganache?

Absolutely! Add peppermint extract, espresso powder, or even orange zest to the filling or ganache to make it festive and unique.

Want More Holiday Dessert Ideas?

If you love this Chocolate Brownies Yule Log, you’ll definitely enjoy these delicious dessert recipes too:

Winter Brittle for a sweet and nutty crunch.
Bonnie’s Blue Ribbon Chocolate Dream Cake if you’re craving a rich chocolate layer cake.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups for a fun and easy treat.
Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake for a fruity twist to your dessert tray.
Brownie Refrigerator Cake for an easy, no-bake chocolate fix.

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Check out more of my everyday indulgent bakes and holiday creations here: Kitchen By Kate Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how your yule log turned out. Did you go with peppermint or add a fruity flair? I’d love to hear how you made it your own!