My grandmother, Nana Rose, always made the holidays feel magical. Her secret? It wasn’t just the twinkling lights or the perfectly wrapped presents, but the incredible desserts that graced her table. I can still picture her, humming softly as she carefully dusted cocoa powder over a magnificent yule log.

The flavors of coffee and cream always seemed to fill her kitchen, a comforting aroma that signaled the start of the most wonderful time of the year. While she had many amazing treats, the tiramisu yule log was always the star, and trying to replicate that magic has become my own holiday tradition. I think you’ll also love this decadent dessert!

One of my favorite memories is the year I tried to help her roll the cake. It ended up a bit lopsided, but Nana Rose just laughed, saying it added character. That’s the spirit of the holidays, isn’t it? Imperfectly perfect. If you love comforting desserts, then you’ll enjoy this scotcharoo popcorn recipe too.

Why you’ll love this Tiramisu Yule Log Cake

This tiramisu yule log combines the classic flavors of tiramisu with the festive presentation of a yule log.
It’s surprisingly easy to make, with simple steps that even beginner bakers can follow.
The creamy mascarpone filling is light and airy, perfectly complementing the coffee-soaked sponge cake.
It’s a show-stopping dessert that’s guaranteed to impress your guests at any holiday gathering.
The recipe can be easily adapted to suit your preferences, with options for different flavors and decorations.
Leftovers (if there are any!) taste just as delicious the next day.

Ingredients

6 large eggs, separated
¾ cup granulated sugar, divided
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, plus more for dusting
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
¼ cup coffee flavored liqueur (optional)
16 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
1 ½ cups heavy cream
½ cup powdered sugar

Directions

Step 1

Tiramisu yule log makes every moment feel sunny. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.

Step 2

In a large bowl, beat egg yolks with ½ cup of granulated sugar until pale and thick. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Step 4

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg yolk mixture, mixing until just combined.

Step 5

In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining ¼ cup of granulated sugar and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.

Step 6

Gently fold one-third of the egg whites into the batter to lighten it. Then, fold in the remaining egg whites until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 7

Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan and spread evenly.

Step 8

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9

While the cake is baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel by dusting it generously with cocoa powder.

Step 10

Once the cake is baked, immediately invert it onto the prepared towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper.

Step 11

Starting at one short end, gently roll the cake up with the towel. Let it cool completely in the rolled-up position.

Step 12

While the cake is cooling, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, beat mascarpone cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.

Step 13

In a separate bowl, beat heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

Step 14

Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone cheese until just combined.

Step 15

Once the cake is cooled, carefully unroll it. Brush the entire surface with the cooled coffee, and coffee flavored liqueur if using.

Step 16

Spread the mascarpone filling evenly over the cake.

Step 17

Starting at one short end, carefully roll the cake back up without the towel. Trim the ends of the log to create a clean finish.

Step 18

Place the yule log cake on a serving platter. Dust generously with cocoa powder. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This decadent tiramisu yule log is best enjoyed chilled!

Variations, pairings, and serving ideas

Variations

For a chocolate lover’s twist, add chocolate shavings to the mascarpone filling or use chocolate extract in the cake batter. You can also substitute the coffee flavored liqueur with a vanilla or almond extract for a different flavor profile. Consider using decaffeinated coffee for a kid-friendly version.

Experiment with different toppings like fresh berries, chopped nuts, or a dusting of powdered sugar. For a richer flavor, you can use espresso instead of regular coffee to soak the cake. Get creative with the decorations to match your holiday theme!

Another fun idea is to add a layer of raspberry jam between the coffee-soaked cake and the mascarpone filling. This will add a burst of fruity flavor that complements the coffee and cream beautifully. You can even make mini tiramisu yule log cakes by cutting the cake into smaller pieces before rolling.

Pairings

This tiramisu yule log pairs perfectly with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of milk. A light, crisp white grape juice can also complement the creamy texture and rich flavors of the cake. Consider serving it with a side of fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness.

For a festive touch, pair it with a warm mug of apple cider or spiced tea. The warmth of the drink will enhance the flavors of the coffee and cream in the cake. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

If you’re looking for a savory pairing, consider serving it after a light appetizer like a cheese and fruit platter. The creamy texture and sweet flavors of the cake will provide a nice contrast to the savory elements of the appetizer.

Serving ideas

To make your tiramisu yule log extra festive, decorate it with chocolate shavings to mimic bark. You can also create “snow” by dusting it with powdered sugar. Add some fresh cranberries or raspberries for a pop of color.

Serve the cake on a beautiful platter or cake stand to elevate the presentation. Cut it into thick slices to showcase the layers of cake and filling. A sprig of mint or a few coffee beans can add a touch of elegance.

You can also get creative with the serving style by layering crumbled pieces of the cake in individual glasses with the mascarpone filling. This creates a deconstructed tiramisu yule log that’s perfect for a party.

Storage and make-ahead tips

Storage

Store leftover tiramisu yule log cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. The flavors will actually meld together even more over time.

You can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in a layer of foil. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Freezing may slightly alter the texture, but it will still be delicious.

Avoid leaving the cake at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as the mascarpone filling can spoil. If you’re transporting the cake, keep it chilled in a cooler with ice packs.

Make-ahead

You can make the tiramisu yule log cake up to 2 days in advance. This will give the flavors time to meld together and make it even more delicious. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

The mascarpone filling can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to whisk it again before using to ensure it’s smooth and creamy. The coffee can also be brewed and cooled in advance.

For a truly stress-free holiday, consider making the cake layers and freezing them separately. Then, when you’re ready to assemble the cake, simply thaw the layers and prepare the filling. This is a great way to break up the workload and ensure a perfect cake every time.

Common mistakes when making Tiramisu Yule Log Cake

Overmixing the batter: Be careful not to overmix the batter after adding the egg whites, as this can result in a tough cake. Gently fold them in until just combined.
Not cooling the cake completely: Make sure the cake is completely cooled before adding the filling, as the heat can melt the mascarpone cream. Let it cool in the rolled-up position to help it retain its shape.
Using cold mascarpone cheese: Ensure the mascarpone cheese is softened before beating it, as this will help it to combine smoothly with the whipped cream. If it’s too cold, it can be difficult to work with.
Not soaking the cake enough: Don’t be afraid to generously brush the cake with coffee, as this is what gives it the signature tiramisu flavor. The cake should be moist but not soggy.
Rolling the cake too tightly: Roll the cake gently to avoid cracking. If it does crack, don’t worry! The frosting will cover it up.

Final notes

This tiramisu yule log cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and traditions. It’s a reminder of warm kitchens, shared laughter, and the joy of creating something beautiful together. I hope you enjoy making this cake as much as I do.

Don’t be intimidated by the steps – it’s easier than it looks. Remember to take your time, enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations. The most important ingredient is love!

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a show-stopping dessert that will impress your family and friends. Happy baking, and happy holidays!

Amazing Tiramisu Yule Log Cake Recipe For The Holidays

Why you’ll love this Tiramisu Yule Log Cake

Ingredients

Directions

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Variations, pairings, and serving ideas

Variations

Pairings

Serving ideas

Storage and make-ahead tips

Storage

Make-ahead

Common mistakes when making Tiramisu Yule Log Cake

Final notes

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Tiramisu Yule Log Cake

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition

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