The Gingerbread Yule Log is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of tradition, warmth, and holiday magic wrapped into one stunning centerpiece. Inspired by the classic French Bûche de Noël, this gingerbread version infuses bold seasonal spices, rich molasses notes, and a soft, rollable sponge cake filled with luscious cream. It’s cozy, nostalgic, and absolutely perfect for Christmas gatherings, winter celebrations, or anytime you want to impress with a dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Unlike heavier cakes, a Yule log relies on a light sponge that rolls easily without cracking. This gingerbread variation brings together cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and brown sugar to create deep flavor while keeping the texture tender. Finished with a creamy filling and rustic frosting designed to mimic tree bark, this dessert becomes an edible work of art.

Whether you’re continuing a holiday baking tradition or starting a new one, this gingerbread Yule log deserves a place on your festive table.

Why You’ll Love This Gingerbread Yule Log

Visually stunning centerpiece dessert for Christmas
Warm gingerbread spices that define the holiday season
Make-ahead friendly, perfect for entertaining
Customizable with fillings, decorations, and garnishes
Classic meets creative twist on a traditional Yule log

Ingredients

Gingerbread Sponge Cake

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Ground cloves (optional)
Unsalted butter, softened
Brown sugar, packed
Large egg
Vanilla extract
Apple cider

Creamy Filling

Unsalted butter, softened
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Cream or milk

Instructions

Prepare the oven and pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper, leaving extra overhang for easy lifting.
Mix the dry ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
Cream butter and sugar
In a separate bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step builds structure and flavor.
Add egg and flavorings
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Combine wet and dry ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with apple cider, mixing gently until a smooth batter forms.
Bake the sponge
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the cake springs back lightly when touched.
Roll while warm
Turn the warm cake out onto a clean towel dusted with powdered sugar. Gently roll it up from the short end with the towel inside. Let cool completely.
Make the filling
Beat butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add cream a little at a time until spreadable.
Fill and re-roll
Carefully unroll the cooled cake, spread the filling evenly, then roll it back up tightly (without the towel).
Decorate as a Yule log
Frost the outside, score lines to resemble bark, and decorate with powdered sugar, rosemary, or festive touches.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Roll Cake

Roll while warm to prevent cracks
Don’t overbake—a dry sponge will break
Use parchment for easy handling
Chill before slicing for clean cuts

Variations & Creative Twists

Cream cheese filling for tangy contrast
Chocolate ganache frosting for richer flavor
Orange zest added to batter for brightness
Gluten-free flour blend for dietary needs

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices with:

Hot cocoa or spiced chai
Vanilla ice cream
Espresso or mulled wine

This dessert shines brightest as a Christmas Eve or Christmas Day finale.

Cultural & Holiday Fun Facts

The Yule log tradition dates back to ancient Europe, where families burned a log during the winter solstice for good luck. The edible Yule log became popular in France in the 19th century, evolving into the festive cake we know today. This gingerbread version honors those roots while embracing modern holiday flavors.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Store refrigerated up to 3 days
Freeze (unfrosted) up to 1 month
Decorate just before serving for best appearance

Final Thoughts

This Gingerbread Yule Log is everything a holiday dessert should be—comforting, beautiful, and bursting with seasonal flavor. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or enjoying a quiet winter evening, this recipe brings warmth, tradition, and joy to the table. Once you make it, it just might become your new holiday classic.