Jamie Oliver Yule Log Recipe [GUIDE]

Jamie Oliver’s Yule Log or "Bûche de Noël," is his festive spin on the traditional French Christmas dessert. It’s a rolled sponge cake, usually filled with rich chocolate buttercream and then decorated to resemble a tree branch. The log is often covered in dark chocolate ganache, making it look like bark, with added decorations like meringue mushrooms or festive berries. Jamie Oliver’s version adds his personal touch, blending classic elements with a bit of flair, making it an eye-catching and indulgent holiday treat. It’s more than just dessert. it’s a showstopper for any Christmas dinner table.

Jamie Oliver Yule Log Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make this delicious Yule Log, you’ll need:

• For The Sponge

  • 6 large eggs
  • 150g caster sugar
  • 100g plain flour, sifted
  • 50g cocoa powder, sifted
  • A pinch of salt

• For The Filling

  • 200g dark chocolate (around 70% cocoa)
  • 250g unsalted butter, softened
  • 300g icing sugar, sifted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

• For The Ganache

  • 200g dark chocolate
  • 200ml double cream

• To Decorate

  • Icing sugar (for dusting)
  • Meringue mushrooms (optional)
  • Fresh berries (optional)

Equipment Needed

You’ll need a few key pieces of equipment to make the Yule Log come together:

• A baking tray (approximately 23×33 cm) for the sponge
• Electric whisk or stand mixer (to beat the eggs and sugar)
• Large mixing bowl
• Cooling rack for the sponge after baking
• Piping bag (optional, for spreading the buttercream evenly)
• Sharp knife (to trim the edges of the sponge)
• Offset spatula (for spreading the ganache and buttercream)
• Tea towel (to roll the sponge)
• Small saucepan (to make the ganache)

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Yule Log

Step 1: Prepare The Sponge

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Line the baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and caster sugar together until light, fluffy and thick. You’ll want the mixture to form ribbons when lifted with the whisk.
3. Gently fold the sifted flour, cocoa powder and salt into the egg mixture. Be careful not to knock the air out.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared tray, smoothing it out evenly.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the sponge springs back when touched. Check with a toothpick. it should come out clean.

Step 2: Roll The Sponge

1. As soon as the sponge is out of the oven, flip it onto a clean tea towel sprinkled with caster sugar.
2. Remove the parchment paper carefully. Roll the sponge tightly with the towel, starting from one short end. Let it cool completely in the roll.

Step 3: Make The Buttercream Filling

1. Melt the dark chocolate gently, either in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave. Allow it to cool.
2. Whisk the butter, icing sugar and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
3. Once the chocolate is cool, fold it into the buttercream until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Unroll The Sponge

1. Once the sponge has cooled, gently unroll it from the tea towel.
2. Spread a generous layer of chocolate buttercream inside but don’t go too close to the edges.

Step 5: Roll It Back Up

1. Carefully roll the sponge back up without the towel this time.
2. Place the rolled sponge on a serving platter and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to set.

Step 6: Prepare The Ganache

1. Heat the double cream in a saucepan until it just starts to simmer.
2. Pour the cream over the dark chocolate and let it sit for a minute before stirring until smooth.

Step 7: Decorate

1. Pour the ganache over the chilled Yule Log, spreading it out evenly with an offset spatula. Let it drip over the sides to create a “bark” effect.
2. Use a fork to create wood-like patterns in the ganache.
3. If you like, dust with icing sugar for a snowy effect and top with meringue mushrooms or berries for a festive touch.

What I Learnt

Making Jamie Oliver’s Yule Log was a lesson in patience but also in the beauty of simplicity. The sponge is deceptively easy. just a little whisking and folding and you’ve got a light, airy base. I was surprised at how forgiving the sponge was; even if it cracks a little, it still rolls up beautifully with the buttercream inside.

The filling was my favorite part. the dark chocolate mixed with buttercream gave the Yule Log a rich, velvety texture. Also, the ganache was a game-changer. I used the fork to make a simple wood pattern and it really made the log look like a rustic, snowy branch.

The decoration? Totally optional but it adds such a lovely touch. I added a few meringue mushrooms and fresh berries for extra color which made the whole thing look like something out of a Christmas fairytale.

Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Yule Log

Jamie Oliver’s Yule Log recipe is a classic but let’s be real, there’s always room for a little creativity. If you’re in the mood to personalize your Yule Log, here are some tweaks to try out:

1. Flavor Variations

   • Chocolate and Orange: Add a zesty twist by mixing in a little orange zest to the cake batter. The citrus will give it a fresh contrast to the rich chocolate. You could also fold in some orange liqueur or even a few drops of orange extract.
   • Boozy Boost: For a more festive kick, add a splash of brandy, whiskey or even Grand Marnier to the chocolate ganache. This elevates the taste and makes it more sophisticated.
   • Minty Chocolate: If you love mint, replace the regular chocolate in the filling with peppermint-infused chocolate or add some mint extract to the ganache. It brings that perfect holiday mint-chocolate vibe.

2. Filling Tweaks

   • Different Creams: Instead of the usual whipped cream or buttercream, why not try mascarpone cheese mixed with a bit of vanilla and powdered sugar? This creates a smooth, tangy filling that pairs really well with the chocolate.
   • Fruit Filling: For a more decadent option, fill your Yule log with macerated berries like raspberries or strawberries. The natural tartness of the berries balances out the sweetness of the chocolate.

3. Decoration

   • Spiced Sugar: Swap traditional powdered sugar for spiced sugar. Cinnamon, nutmeg and a little bit of brown sugar mixed together creates a wonderful aroma when dusted on top.
   • Candied Nuts or Fruits: Instead of the usual chocolate decorations, top your Yule Log with candied pecans, walnuts or even some sugared cranberries. It adds a bit of crunch and an elegant touch.

4. Alternative Bases

   • Gluten-Free Version: If you or your guests are gluten-sensitive, you can make a gluten-free version by swapping the flour for a gluten-free blend or almond flour. The texture may differ but it still tastes amazing!
   • Vegan Version: To make it vegan, substitute the eggs and butter with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg) and plant-based butter. For the ganache, opt for a dairy-free chocolate and coconut cream.

These changes don’t drastically alter the traditional Yule Log but make it feel more tailored to your tastes and dietary needs. Get creative and don’t be afraid to experiment!

Storage Tips For Leftovers

You’ve made your Yule Log and now there are leftovers. The question is, how do you store it so it stays fresh?

1. Wrapping It Right

   • Wrap your Yule Log tightly in plastic wrap to keep air out. You want to preserve that moistness without it drying out.
   • If you have a lot of leftover ganache or frosting, store that separately in an airtight container. It’s a bonus treat for later on!

2. Refrigeration

   • While the cake is best enjoyed fresh, you can store the whole log or slices in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The cold might slightly affect the texture but it’s still delicious. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving to bring back some of the flavor.

3. Freezing

   • If you have a large amount left and can’t finish it, freeze the Yule Log. Slice it first, then wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap. After that, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can thaw just a piece or two at a time.
   • To defrost, take the slices out and let them thaw in the fridge overnight or you can leave them at room temperature for a few hours.

4. Storage For Ganache And Filling

   • The ganache can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you have extra, reheat it gently (in the microwave or on a stovetop) before reusing it. The filling, if cream-based, should be consumed within a couple of days. Any fruit filling can also be stored in the fridge but you may want to refresh it with a little extra sugar or juice before serving again.

So, in short: wrap well, refrigerate or freeze if necessary and enjoy those Yule Log leftovers as a delightful treat later in the week.

What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Yule Log?

A Yule Log is rich, indulgent and the perfect sweet treat but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the whole experience. Here are some ideas:

1. A Strong Cup Of Coffee

   • The richness of the Yule Log pairs beautifully with a dark roast coffee or espresso. The bitter notes of the coffee balance the sweetness of the cake, making it a perfect after-dinner duo.

2. Mulled Wine Or Spiced Cider

   • Keep the festive vibes going by serving the Yule Log with mulled wine or a warm spiced cider. The spices in the drink complement the flavors of the cake and the warmth of the beverage contrasts with the cold richness of the chocolate.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream Or Sorbet

   • A scoop of vanilla ice cream (or even a sorbet for a fruitier twist) adds a creamy, cool contrast to the dense and rich cake. The cold creaminess cuts through the richness, balancing the texture and sweetness.

4. Fresh Berries

   • If you went with a fruity filling or decoration for the Yule Log, fresh berries-like raspberries or strawberries. add a nice tart element that enhances the overall flavor profile. The acidity of the fruit helps balance the richness of the chocolate and cream.

5. Whipped Cream Or Crème Fraîche

   • For a lighter, less sweet pairing, serve your Yule Log with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or crème fraîche. It adds a soft, airy contrast to the heavy cake and ganache.

6. Cheese Pairing

   • A savory cheese pairing might seem odd but a small slice of sharp cheese (like aged cheddar or blue cheese) actually complements the sweetness of chocolate cake in a surprising way. The tangy bite of the cheese makes each bite of Yule Log even more decadent.

So.

FAQs

What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Yule Log Recipe Special?

Jamie Oliver’s Yule Log combines rich, moist chocolate sponge with a decadent chocolate buttercream filling, creating a dessert that’s both light and indulgent.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Yule Log Ahead Of Time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day or two ahead. Just store it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

What Should I Use For Decorating The Yule Log?

Jamie Oliver suggests dusting with icing sugar for a snowy effect or adding decorations like holly, chocolate shavings, or even edible glitter for a festive touch.