Last Updated on October 11, 2025 by recipeinspire
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Brownie Yule Log: 7 Steps to Your Best Festive Dessert Yet!
Are you craving a holiday showstopper? Perfect your festive spread with our Brownie Yule Log recipe! Satisfy your sweet tooth with our 7 easy steps. Try it now! With festive gatherings just around the corner, what better way to impress your guests than with a rich, chocolatey delight that encapsulates the spirit of the season? This classic dessert not only garners smiles but also encourages sharing, making your gatherings all the merrier.
Ingredients List

Gather your materials and let’s prepare to whip up this delectable Brownie Yule Log! Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Optional:
- Powdered sugar or cocoa powder for dusting
- Fresh berries or mint leaves for garnish
Substitutions: You can swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar for a healthier alternative or use gluten-free flour if you have gluten sensitivities.
Timing
Preparation for your Brownie Yule Log takes about 30 minutes, with a baking time of approximately 25 minutes, totaling around 90 minutes. That’s a remarkable 20% less time than the average dessert recipe, giving you more moments to enjoy the festivities!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Mix in the eggs and vanilla until well blended. In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined.
Step 3: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 4: Cool and Roll
Once baked, allow the brownies to cool for about 10 minutes. While still warm, flip the brownies onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Gently peel off the parchment paper, then start rolling the brownies from one short end, using the towel to help you. This will create the log shape. Let it cool completely rolled up.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Filling
In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
Step 6: Fill the Log
Unroll the cooled brownie log carefully. Spread the cream filling evenly over the surface, then re-roll the brownie log tightly without the towel.
Step 7: Chocolate Ganache Topping
To make the ganache, heat heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour it over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before drizzling over the rolled brownie log.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 slice, approximately 1/12 of the recipe):
- Calories: 290
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 3g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For a lighter version of this festive treat, consider using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese in the filling. You can also use vegan chocolate chips and alternative sweeteners like stevia if you’re looking for a sugar substitute without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your presentation, garnish the Brownie Yule Log with fresh berries or sprigs of mint. Serve it on a beautiful platter, dusted with powdered sugar for a snowy effect, and pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm mug of cocoa for a cozy finish!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking the brownies: This can lead to a dry log. Keep an eye on them!
- Not cooling the brownies enough: They must cool adequately before rolling; otherwise, they might crack.
- Skipping the parchment paper: This is crucial for easy removal from the pan.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
To keep your Brownie Yule Log fresh, store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the log (wrapped securely) for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Print
Brownie Yule Log
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Brownie Yule Log is a rich twist on the classic Bûche de Noël — a fudgy brownie roll filled with whipped chocolate ganache and finished with a festive dusting of powdered sugar. 🎄🍫
Ingredients
- For the Brownie Roll:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- For the Chocolate Ganache Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For Decoration:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Chocolate curls or holly berries (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
- In a saucepan, melt butter. Remove from heat and whisk in sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in cocoa, flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 12–15 minutes, until just set but still soft.
- While warm, invert brownie onto a clean towel dusted with cocoa powder. Peel off parchment and gently roll from the short side. Cool completely.
- For ganache, heat cream until just steaming, pour over chocolate, and let sit 2 minutes. Stir until smooth, add vanilla, and chill until thickened. Whip to a spreadable consistency.
- Unroll the brownie, spread ganache evenly, then roll back up tightly. Place seam-side down and chill for 30 minutes.
- Dust with powdered sugar and decorate with chocolate curls or festive berries before serving.
Notes
🎅 Perfect for holiday gatherings! For a mocha twist, add 1 teaspoon espresso powder to the brownie batter before baking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Christmas Recipes
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: brownie yule log, christmas desserts, buche de noel, chocolate swiss roll, holiday cake, festive dessert
Conclusion
Creating a show-stopping Brownie Yule Log is easier than you might think. Follow these 7 simple steps to impress your guests and indulge in a delightful dessert that embodies the holiday spirit. Don’t forget to share your experience and joy with us—try the recipe today and let the festivity begin!
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the brownie log in advance. Just ensure it’s properly wrapped to maintain freshness.
What type of chocolate is best for the ganache?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips work wonderfully, but feel free to use dark chocolate for a richer taste.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free flour, this Brownie Yule Log can easily cater to gluten-free diets!
Delight in the festive flavors and enjoy this scrumptious treat with friends and family!







