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Gingerbread Yule Log Recipe

Gingerbread Yule Log Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 26 reviews

This Gingerbread Yule Log is a festive and spiced dessert perfect for the holiday season. Featuring a light and fluffy gingerbread sponge cake rolled with a creamy spiced rum cream cheese frosting, this classic Christmas treat combines warm spices and rich flavors with a visually stunning presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Gingerbread Sponge Cake

  • 3/4 cup all purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 2 teaspoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Spiced Rum Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 1 tablespoon spiced rum
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard size half sheet pan (about 12 x 18 x 1 inches) with parchment paper, spraying it with cooking spray. Make sure the parchment extends about two inches longer on each end for easy rolling.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ground ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
  3. Beat Eggs and Sugar: Using an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the eggs and brown sugar on high speed for 4 to 6 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, indicating good aeration in the batter.
  4. Add Molasses and Flavorings: Slowly mix in the molasses, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Stir just until combined to maintain the air in the batter.
  5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Reduce mixer speed to low and gradually add the dry flour mixture, mixing until just incorporated without over-mixing to ensure a tender sponge.
  6. Bake the Sponge Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the center springs back when lightly touched and the edges pull slightly away from the pan.
  7. Roll the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven. While still warm, fold one end of the parchment paper over the cake and carefully roll it up. Place the rolled cake on a cooling rack and allow it to cool completely, about 1 hour.
  8. Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese and spiced rum on high speed until smooth and soft. Reduce speed and gradually add the powdered sugar, blending well.
  9. Adjust Frosting Consistency: Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream a little at a time until the frosting reaches a medium stiffness suitable for spreading, but still easy to work with.
  10. Assemble the Log: Unroll the cooled cake and spread half of the frosting evenly over the surface. Carefully re-roll the cake to enclose the filling, then place it seam-side down on a serving plate.
  11. Decorate the Cake: Use the remaining frosting to cover the outside of the rolled cake. Using a fork, drag along the frosting to create a bark-like texture reminiscent of a real log.
  12. Final Touches: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on the outside for extra spice and visual appeal. Decorate with cranberries, rosemary sprigs, and pinecones as desired for a festive and rustic presentation.

Notes

  • If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute the spiced rum with an equal amount of apple juice or omit it altogether.
  • Ensure the cake is rolled while still warm to prevent cracking; if it cools fully before rolling, it may break apart.
  • Use fresh spices for the best aroma and flavor in the gingerbread sponge.
  • Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps in the frosting.
  • Store the assembled Yule log in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving for best texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Gingerbread Yule Log, Christmas dessert, holiday cake, spiced cake, cream cheese frosting, festive dessert

Find it online: https://kitchenbyclara.com/gingerbread-yule-log-recipe/