Name: Irresistible Chocolate Orange Yule Log Recipe for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: Holiday
Ingredients: For the Ganache; 200 g dark chocolate (milk chocolate may be used for a sweeter taste); 150 g double cream (or heavy cream); 75 g butter (dairy-free butter for a vegan option); For the Sponge; 3 eggs (egg substitutes may be used); 75 g plain flour (gluten-free flour works well); 50 g unsweetened cocoa powder; Zest of 1 orange; For the Buttercream; 200 g icing sugar (or sugar substitute); 1 tsp orange extract; 1 tbsp milk (or plant-based milk); Orange food coloring (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it comes together quickly and still looks impressive on the table. The sponge stays soft and flexible, the orange buttercream adds freshness, and the chocolate ganache gives it that classic Yule log look. I also like how easy it is to customize for different dietary needs or flavor preferences.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the ganache:
200 g dark chocolate
150 g double cream
75 g butter

For the sponge:
3 eggs
75 g plain flour
50 g cocoa powder
Zest of 1 orange

For the buttercream:
200 g icing sugar
1 tsp orange extract
1 tbsp milk
Orange food coloring (optional)

Directions

I start by preparing the ganache. I heat the double cream and butter in a saucepan over medium heat until just warm, then remove it from the heat and add the chopped chocolate. I let it sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth and glossy. I set it aside to cool and thicken.

Next, I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). I whisk the eggs and sugar together until thick and pale, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. I gently fold in the sieved flour, cocoa powder, and orange zest until everything is just combined. I pour the batter into a lined baking tin and bake for about 10 minutes, until the sponge is set but still soft.

While the sponge is warm, I roll it up gently with the baking paper. This step helps prevent cracking later. I then let it cool completely while still rolled.

For the buttercream, I whip the butter until light and fluffy, then gradually add the icing sugar, orange extract, milk, and optional food coloring. I mix until smooth and airy.

To assemble, I carefully unroll the sponge and spread an even layer of orange buttercream over the surface. I roll it back up tightly to form the log. Finally, I spread the cooled ganache over the outside, using a fork to create a bark-like texture if I feel like decorating it further.

Servings and Timing

I get about 8 slices from this Yule log.
Prep time is approximately 30 minutes.
Cook time is about 10 minutes.
Cooling time is around 1 hour.
Total time comes to roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate when I want a sweeter ganache. For a stronger citrus flavor, I add extra orange zest to the buttercream. When I need a dairy-free version, I use plant-based butter, cream, and milk alternatives with great results.

Storage/Reheating

I store the Yule log in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 3 days. I usually let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving so the ganache softens slightly and the flavors shine.

FAQs

Can I make this Yule log ahead of time?

I often make it a day in advance and keep it chilled, which actually helps the flavors develop.

How do I prevent the sponge from cracking?

I always roll the sponge while it’s still warm and let it cool in that shape.

Can I freeze this dessert?

I freeze it without decorations, wrapped tightly, for up to one month and thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Is orange extract necessary?

I like using it for a stronger flavor, but I rely on orange zest alone when I want a more natural citrus note.

What decorations work best?

I enjoy keeping it simple with forked ganache texture, but powdered sugar, cocoa dusting, or orange slices work beautifully.

Conclusion

I find this Chocolate Orange Yule Log to be a perfect holiday dessert that balances rich chocolate with refreshing citrus. It’s festive, flexible, and always a crowd-pleaser, making it one of my favorite treats to serve during the holiday season.