Indulge in a Festive Red Velvet Yule Log for Christmas

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Red Velvet Yule Log is a festive and elegant Christmas dessert that promises to impress your guests. This stunning dessert features a soft red velvet sponge rolled with silky cream cheese frosting, making it a delightful centerpiece for any holiday table. Not only is it visually striking, but it is also surprisingly easy to prepare. The vibrant color and rich flavor are perfect for celebrating the season, making it an ideal choice for your festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Yule Log

This Red Velvet Yule Log is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s packed with flavor and charm. Here are a few reasons to add it to your holiday menu:

Impressive appearance that enhances your holiday table.
Rich, moist cake with a velvety texture.
Silky cream cheese frosting that complements the cake perfectly.
A unique spin on traditional Christmas desserts.
Customizable with various toppings like fresh berries or sprinkles.
Perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings.
Made with simple ingredients, making it accessible for all bakers.
It can serve as both a showpiece and a delicious dessert.

This recipe is an excellent choice for anyone looking to impress with minimal effort. Plus, it fits into the American cuisine category and is vegetarian-friendly!

Ingredients for Red Velvet Yule Log

Gather these items:

¾ cup (95 g) all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
4 large eggs, room temperature
¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon white vinegar
2 teaspoons red gel food coloring
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups (190 g) powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Extra cream cheese frosting
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Crumbled cake scraps or red sprinkles
Fresh berries (optional)
Use gluten-free flour if needed
Add orange zest to the filling
Swap for whipped cream frosting
Add mini chocolate chips
Use beet powder for natural coloring

How to Make Red Velvet Yule Log Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment. Whisk flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt. Beat eggs and sugar for 3–5 minutes until thick and pale. Add oil, vanilla, vinegar, and red coloring. Gently fold in dry ingredients. Spread into the pan and bake for 12–14 minutes.
Step 2: Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla and powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy. Chill for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Dust the baked cake with powdered sugar. Invert onto a sugared kitchen towel, peel off parchment, and roll while warm. Cool for 30–40 minutes.
Step 4: Unroll the cooled cake, spread filling evenly, and roll back up tightly. Frost lightly if desired. Decorate with powdered sugar, red crumbs, berries, or piped rosettes.
Step 5: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight). Slice with a serrated knife before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Red Velvet Yule Log

Keep these in mind:

Use gluten-free flour if needed to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Add orange zest to the filling for an extra flavor dimension.
Swap for whipped cream frosting for a lighter option.
Add mini chocolate chips for a fun twist.
Use beet powder instead of food coloring for natural coloring.

Best Ways to Serve Red Velvet Yule Log

This delightful dessert pairs well with:

Fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and tartness.
Vanilla ice cream to balance the richness of the cake.
Hot cocoa or coffee to complement the flavors.

How to Store and Reheat Red Velvet Yule Log

Store any leftover Red Velvet Yule Log in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice and microwave gently for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat. This recipe is great for meal prep; just make sure to chill it before slicing!

Frequently Asked Questions About Red Velvet Yule Log

What’s the secret to perfect Red Velvet Yule Log?

The secret lies in correctly folding the dry ingredients to maintain the lightness of the batter. Also, ensuring the cream cheese frosting is whipped to perfection will elevate the flavors!

Can I make Red Velvet Yule Log ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just make sure to refrigerate it properly, and it will taste just as fresh for your holiday gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Red Velvet Yule Log?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your eggs are at room temperature, and don’t overbake the sponge. The cake should be soft and pliable for rolling.

Variations of Red Velvet Yule Log You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with these variations:

Swap the cream cheese frosting for a chocolate ganache for a Red Velvet Chocolate Log.
Add crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch.
For a unique twist, try incorporating orange zest into the filling.
Make it a Red Velvet Swiss Roll by rolling it with whipped cream instead of frosting.

Irresistible Red Velvet Yule Log decorated with cream cheese frosting and fresh berries

For more delicious holiday recipes, check out these festive treats or this savory meatloaf that pairs wonderfully with holiday meals!

Ingredients for Red Velvet Yule Log including flour, cocoa powder, eggs, and cream cheese

For tips on making the perfect cake, you can refer to this veggie loaf recipe which shares great baking techniques!