Name: Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 2 h 59 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 large eggs (room temperature); 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon real vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup strong coffee (room temperature or cold); 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream (very cold); 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 recipe Chocolate Ganache (cooled to room temperature); 1 recipe Meringue mushrooms; 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting finished cake); 1/4 cup finely chopped pistachios; 6 Oreo cookies (frosting removed)

There is something truly magical about the holidays, and this Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe brings that festive magic straight to your table. Imagine a light, fluffy sponge cake soaked in rich coffee syrup, then rolled and layered with a luscious tiramisu-inspired frosting. The cake is beautifully decorated with cocoa, crushed Oreos, and pistachios, creating a stunning centerpiece that tastes as amazing as it looks. It’s the perfect balance of classic Italian tiramisu flavors with the cozy charm of a yule log — a Christmas cake that your friends and family will ask for year after year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top-down view of several baking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. On the left side, there are six white eggs placed in two groups, nearby a large glass bowl filled with white granulated sugar. Above the sugar bowl sits a green measuring cup filled with flour, and next to it is a small glass bowl containing a dark brown liquid, likely vanilla extract. In the center, a stick of unsalted butter is placed horizontally. To the right, a carton of heavy whipping cream is standing upright, with its red and cream design visible. Nearby, there is a yellow measuring spoon filled with white sugar and a rectangular block of cream cheese in white packaging with blue text. At the bottom right corner, there is a small amount of dark liquid, likely coffee or molasses, with a rich dark brown color. The overall setup looks clean and organized, showing a variety of textures from smooth eggs to fine sugar and soft butter photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a special role, keeping things simple yet luxurious. From eggs that give the sponge its airy texture, to coffee that infuses the log with that iconic tiramisu flavor, and the creamy frosting that brings everything together—you’ll be amazed at how a handful of humble ingredients come alive in this festive masterpiece.

6 large eggs (room temperature): Essential for a fluffy, airy sponge that rises beautifully in the oven.
2/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the egg whites for that perfect cake structure.
1/2 tsp real vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the delicate sponge batter.
1 cup all-purpose flour: The base of the sponge, providing structure without weighing it down.
1 cup strong coffee (room temp or cold): Brings the signature tiramisu flavor, soaking into the cake for richness.
1 Tbsp granulated sugar (for coffee syrup): Balances coffee’s natural bitterness with a touch of sweetness.
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream (very cold): Creates the fluffy, smooth frosting that ties the cake together.
8 oz cream cheese (room temperature): Brings tanginess and creamy texture to the frosting.
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for frosting): Sweetens the frosting without overpowering the coffee flavor.
1 Recipe Chocolate Ganache (cooled to room temp): Adds glossy, rich elegance and a bit of chocolatey drama.
1 Recipe Meringue mushrooms: Decorative touch that makes this yule log look like it came straight from a winter forest.
1 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder: For dusting the finished cake, enhancing its flavor and look.
1/4 cup finely chopped pistachios: Offers a pop of color and subtle crunch for a festive finish.
6 Oreo cookies (frosting removed): Crushed to mimic forest dirt, adding fun texture and flavor contrast.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 400˚F and lining a 15×21″ rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Using the whisk attachment on your mixer, beat 6 large eggs on high speed for 1 minute, then gradually add 2/3 cup sugar while continuing to beat for 5 more minutes. You want a thick, fluffy mixture as this airy texture is the secret to the perfect cake rise without any added leavening agents.

Step 2: Incorporate the Flour and Vanilla

Sift 1 cup of flour into the egg mixture in thirds, folding gently with a spatula between each addition to avoid deflating the batter. Add 1/2 tsp vanilla extract and fold just until blended. Spread the batter evenly on the parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12 to 14 minutes until the top is golden and springy to touch.

Step 3: Roll the Cake

Immediately after removing the cake from the oven, loosen the edges with a thin spatula and carefully lift the cake off the sheet using the parchment paper. Place another piece of parchment on top and roll the cake tightly from the narrow end into a log shape. Let it cool completely rolled, which helps it keep its shape when filled.

Step 4: Prepare the Coffee Syrup and Frosting

Combine 1 cup strong coffee with 1 tablespoon sugar until dissolved. Unroll the cooled cake and brush the coffee syrup evenly over the surface to soak in those signature tiramisu flavors. While the cake absorbs the syrup, whip 1 1/2 cups cold heavy cream until fluffy, then beat together 8 oz cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar until smooth. Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to make the luscious tiramisu frosting.

Step 5: Assemble and Frost the Yule Log

Spread the tiramisu frosting evenly over the coffee-soaked cake, then roll it back up carefully but firmly. Trim the ends to create clean edges. Slice about a quarter off the roll diagonally and position this piece as the “branch” on top of the log on your serving platter. Chill until ready to apply the chocolate ganache frosting.

Step 6: Add the Chocolate Ganache and Decorations

Whip your cooled chocolate ganache on high speed until fluffy but not grainy, then spread it over the yule log’s surface except the ends. Use a fork to create spiral grooves mimicking tree bark texture, wiping the fork clean between strokes for neat results. Dust with cocoa powder, sprinkle crushed Oreo crumbs at the base to look like forest soil, and dot chopped pistachios to represent moss patches. Finally, adorn the log with meringue mushrooms for an enchanted woodland vibe.

How to Serve Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe

The images show the process of making a chocolate yule log cake. The first image has a clear bowl with smooth, dark brown chocolate melted inside, resting on a white marbled surface. The second image shows the chocolate in the same bowl but now whipped into a lighter, fluffy chocolate cream with visible texture, while a handheld mixer is mixing it. In the third image, a white rolled cake with a white cream spiral inside is lying on a white plate, covered in a layer of thick, creamy chocolate spread with smooth and soft texture. The last image shows the same cake with the chocolate frosting then textured with a fork to create lines like tree bark, and a piece of the rolled cake placed on one end to look like a log, all on a white plate with a woman’s hand holding a fork. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Dusting the cake with unsweetened cocoa powder not only enhances its flavor but adds a beautiful, rustic finish. Sprigs of pine or rosemary can give a festive touch and a gentle aromatic hint to your presentation. The meringue mushrooms complete the woodland theme with a fun texture that impresses guests.

Side Dishes

This tiramisu yule log shines on its own but pairs exceptionally well with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for those wanting an extra indulgent treat. Fresh berries or a berry compote add a vibrant tartness that balances the creamy richness of the cake beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Place your finished yule log on a rustic wooden board or a festive platter to showcase the natural “log” look. You can also build a small “forest scene” with extra crushed Oreos as dirt, pistachios as moss, and scattered edible flowers or sugar holly leaves. It transforms this Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe into an edible winter fairy tale centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your yule log keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to preserve its moisture and freshness. Keep the decorative mushrooms separate to avoid condensation that could make them sticky.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled cake for up to one month. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving, and add final touches like cocoa dusting and mushrooms after thawing for the best appearance.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Since it’s a delicate sponge with creamy frosting, avoid microwaving or warming it, which will ruin the texture and consistency. Just bring it to room temperature from the fridge for the most enjoyable slice.

FAQs

Can I use decaffeinated coffee in this recipe?

Absolutely! Decaf coffee works perfectly for soaking the sponge if you want to avoid caffeine but keep the rich tiramisu flavor.

How do I make the meringue mushrooms?

Meringue mushrooms are a simple but charming decoration made by piping and baking meringue into mushroom shapes. You can find easy recipes online or skip this step and use edible decorations you prefer.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes, the tiramisu frosting can be made a day in advance and kept refrigerated. Just give it a gentle stir before spreading to re-fluff it if needed.

Is it okay to substitute mascarpone for cream cheese?

For an authentic tiramisu taste, mascarpone is ideal, but cream cheese delivers a delicious result and is easier to find. Mixing mascarpone and cream cheese works well too.

What if my cake cracks when rolling?

If your sponge cake cracks, don’t worry! It’s common. You can patch cracks with some frosting as you assemble, and the yule log presentation makes minor imperfections hardly noticeable.

Final Thoughts

This Tiramisu Yule Log Christmas Cake Recipe is a showstopper that brings joy, warmth, and countless compliments every holiday season. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying something festive for the first time, this recipe invites you to create more than just a dessert — it’s an experience filled with tradition and love. Give it a try and watch it become a treasured part of your holiday celebrations year after year!