Spiced Orange Yule Log
This spiced orange yule log features a tender cocoa sponge rolled around a bright, aromatic orange jam infused with cinnamon and citrus. The cake is layered with a rich cream cheese frosting, resulting in a festive, eye-catching dessert with a balance of moistness and creamy texture. Its rustic appearance and fragrant aroma make it a holiday centerpiece that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.
Equipment
- Baking tray
- Electric whisk
- Parchment paper
- Damp towel
- Spatula
- Wire Rack
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs at room temperature
- 150 g sugar caster or superfine
- 30 g cocoa powder sifted
- 120 g plain flour all-purpose flour
- 200 g spiced orange jam warm slightly for spreading
- 200 g cream cheese softened
- 100 g unsalted butter softened
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a 30x20cm (12x8 inch) baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs and sugar together using an electric whisk until the mixture is thick, pale, and ribbons fall from the whisk after about 5 minutes.
- Sift the cocoa powder and gently fold it into the egg mixture, ensuring no lumps remain, creating a smooth, dark batter.
- Carefully sift the flour over the batter and fold it gently using a spatula, maintaining the airy texture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared tray, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure a uniform layer.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the sponge springs back when lightly touched and has a slightly crackled surface.
- Once baked, invert the sponge onto a damp towel dusted with cocoa powder, peel away the parchment paper gently, and let it cool slightly.
- Spread the warmed spiced orange jam evenly over the sponge, then carefully roll it up from the short side, using the towel to help prevent cracking.
- Allow the rolled sponge to cool completely on a wire rack, seam side down, to set the shape.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Spread the creamy frosting over the cooled yule log, creating a rustic, textured appearance with a spatula.
- Decorate as desired with festive toppings or simply serve, revealing the luscious spiral inside and fragrant aroma.