Gourmet Tiramisu Yule Log Cake
Gourmet Tiramisu Yule Log Cake is a festive dessert blending classic tiramisu flavors with the elegant style of a yule log. Featuring layers of espresso-soaked sponge, creamy mascarpone filling, and a dusting of cocoa powder, this dessert offers a rich yet balanced taste perfect for holiday celebrations. Ideal for make-ahead preparation, it impresses with its beautiful spiral presentation and customizable variations.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 to 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Can be made gluten-free with substitutions
Ingredients
- Fresh, strong espresso coffee (quantity as needed to soak sponge)
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjusted between sponge and filling as needed)
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (for dusting)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour/gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons dark rum or coffee liqueur (optional)
- Prepare the Sponge Cake: Preheat your oven and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Whisk the separated egg yolks with sugar until pale and fluffy, then carefully fold in the sifted flour. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites to soft peaks and gently fold them into the batter. Spread the batter evenly onto the baking sheet and bake until just golden and springy to the touch.
- Make the Espresso Soak: While the sponge is baking, mix freshly brewed espresso with optional rum or coffee liqueur in a shallow dish. This soak will infuse the cake with signature tiramisu coffee flavor.
- Prepare the Mascarpone Filling: Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold in mascarpone cheese, vanilla extract, and a bit of sugar to create a luscious, creamy filling.
- Assemble the Yule Log: When the sponge is slightly cooled but still pliable, invert it onto a clean towel dusted with cocoa powder. Peel off the parchment paper and quickly brush the sponge evenly with the espresso soak. Spread the mascarpone filling over the surface, then gently roll the sponge tightly using the towel to guide, forming the classic log shape.
- Chill and Decorate: Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, dust with additional cocoa powder and optionally decorate with chocolate shavings or festive toppings.
Notes
- Use fresh eggs and high-quality mascarpone for superior texture and flavor.
- Brush the espresso soak briefly to prevent soggy cake and ensure it rolls well.
- Roll the cake while still warm to avoid cracking or breaking.
- Refrigerate overnight for best flavor development and firmer slices.
- Fold the whipped cream carefully into the mascarpone to maintain a light and airy filling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/10 of the cake)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg
Keywords: Tiramisu, Yule Log, Holiday Dessert, Mascarpone, Espresso Cake, Festive Cake