If you’re craving a dessert that combines elegance, warmth, and that dream-worthy balance of coffee and cream, then the Gourmet Tiramisu Yule Log Cake is calling your name. This irresistible creation melds fluffy coffee-soaked sponge layers with luscious mascarpone cream, rolled into a festive log that dazzles both the eyes and the palate. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a special occasion, this stunning cake brings gourmet flair with comforting flavors you’ll want to share again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Decadent Flavor Fusion: A perfect harmony of rich espresso and creamy mascarpone makes every bite a delight.
Festive and Elegant Presentation: Shaped as a traditional yule log, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Moist, Tender Sponge: The coffee-soaked cake layers add a moist texture that melts in your mouth.
Customizable Layers: Easily adjust coffee intensity or sweetness to satisfy your taste buds.
Ideal for Special Occasions: Impress guests with a gourmet dessert that’s surprisingly approachable to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for the Gourmet Tiramisu Yule Log Cake are simple yet essential—each plays a vital role in creating the harmony of texture, flavor, and beauty. Using quality components like fresh mascarpone and strong espresso ensures the best outcome.

Espresso Coffee: Brewed strong to soak the sponge and infuse that signature tiramisu flavor.
Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the sponge cake.
Sugar: Balances the bitterness of coffee while adding sweetness to the cream and cake.
Mascarpone Cheese: Creates the smooth, creamy filling essential to any tiramisu-inspired dessert.
Flour: Light and delicate to produce a tender sponge texture.
Cocoa Powder: For dusting the log and enhancing the classic tiramisu look.
Heavy Cream: Whipped into the mascarpone for extra airy richness.
Vanilla Extract: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity to the cream filling.
Dark Rum or Coffee Liqueur (optional): For a boozy twist that amplifies the flavors.

Variations for Gourmet Tiramisu Yule Log Cake

One of the great things about the Gourmet Tiramisu Yule Log Cake is how easy it is to adapt to your cravings or dietary preferences. With a few tweaks, you can make it your own masterpiece.

Chocolate Lovers’ Delight: Add melted dark chocolate to the mascarpone cream for an indulgent twist.
Fruit Infusion: Layer fresh berries or a raspberry sauce inside for a refreshing contrast.
Non-Alcoholic Version: Skip the rum and substitute with extra strong coffee or coffee extract.
Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend for the sponge to accommodate dietary needs.
Decaf for Late-Night: Use decaffeinated espresso to enjoy it any time without the caffeine kick.

Irresistible Gourmet Tiramisu Yule Log Cake Recipe

How to Make Gourmet Tiramisu Yule Log Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Sponge

Begin by whisking eggs and sugar until thick and pale, giving the cake its airy lift. Gently fold in sifted flour to maintain that light texture, then bake until just golden and springy. The sponge will be the base soaking up the coffee flavor later, so it needs to be tender yet resilient.

Step 2: Brew and Prep the Coffee Soak

While the sponge cools, brew fresh espresso and mix with a splash of rum or coffee liqueur if using. This soak will saturate the cake, infusing every bite with that classic tiramisu aroma.

Step 3: Make the Mascarpone Cream

Whip heavy cream to soft peaks and gently fold it into sweetened mascarpone mixed with vanilla extract. This combination creates the luscious, velvety filling that defines the Gourmet Tiramisu Yule Log Cake.

Step 4: Assemble the Log

Carefully roll the cooled sponge with coffee syrup applied generously, then layer with mascarpone cream as you roll it back up into the log shape. This step requires a gentle touch to keep the sponge from cracking and to ensure an even distribution of cream.

Step 5: Decorate and Chill

Cover the yule log with the remaining mascarpone cream, dust the top generously with cocoa powder, and add festive touches like chocolate shavings or edible gold dust. Chill the cake at least 4 hours to allow flavors to meld and the roll to set firm.

Pro Tips for Making Gourmet Tiramisu Yule Log Cake

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: It helps the sponge rise better and ensures smooth mascarpone cream.
Don’t Oversoak the Sponge: A few generous brushes of coffee syrup are enough to keep it moist without becoming soggy.
Roll the Cake While Warm: Rolling it right after baking prevents cracks and makes shaping easier.
Chill Thoroughly: Giving the cake proper chill time firms it up and enhances flavor blending.
Opt for Quality Mascarpone: The creaminess and flavor depend heavily on this key ingredient.

How to Serve Gourmet Tiramisu Yule Log Cake

Garnishes

Compliment your yule log with a dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar, fresh coffee beans, and edible flowers to elevate its visual appeal and hint at flavors within.

Side Dishes

A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce pairs beautifully, balancing the richness of the mascarpone and the coffee intensity.

Creative Ways to Present

Place the yule log on a rustic wooden board or a sleek mirrored platter, and surround it with sprigs of fresh mint or holly to celebrate the season with style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cake covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and cream texture.

Freezing

The Gourmet Tiramisu Yule Log Cake freezes well—wrap it in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled, so avoid reheating. Let it come to room temperature slightly for optimal flavor and texture before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the sponge cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the sponge a day ahead and wrap it well. Just keep it airtight to prevent drying out before assembly.

Is it necessary to use alcohol in the soak?

Not at all! The alcohol adds depth, but coffee alone works perfectly for a non-alcoholic version.

What if I can’t find mascarpone cheese?

You can substitute with a blend of cream cheese and whipped cream, but the flavor and texture will vary slightly.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

While challenging, you can replace mascarpone with coconut cream and use dairy-free whipped cream, but expect a different flavor profile.

How long does the cake need to chill before serving?

For best results, chill at least 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld and the cake firm up nicely.

Final Thoughts

Bringing together the best of classic tiramisu and festive charm, the Gourmet Tiramisu Yule Log Cake is a showstopper that tastes just as incredible as it looks. Whether you’re treating your loved ones or indulging yourself, this recipe promises warmth, joy, and a rich coffee-cream goodness that you’ll keep coming back to. Give it a try and watch it become a favorite holiday tradition!

Gourmet Tiramisu Yule Log Cake

Print Recipe

The Gourmet Tiramisu Yule Log Cake is an elegant and festive dessert combining coffee-soaked tender sponge layers with a luscious mascarpone cream filling. This classic tiramisu-inspired cake, rolled into a decorative holiday log, offers a decadent fusion of rich espresso and creamy mascarpone. Perfect for special occasions and holiday feasts, it features a moist texture, customizable flavors, and an elegant presentation that delights both the eyes and the palate.

Author: Lina
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 8 to 10 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free flour)

Ingredients

Scale

For the Coffee Soaked Sponge

4 large eggs (room temperature)
100g (½ cup) granulated sugar
80g (⅔ cup) all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour blend

For the Coffee Soak

1 cup brewed strong espresso coffee
2 tbsp dark rum or coffee liqueur (optional)

For the Mascarpone Cream

250g (about 1 cup) mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
150ml (⅔ cup) heavy cream
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

For Decoration

Cocoa powder (for dusting)
Chocolate shavings or edible gold dust (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Coffee Sponge: Whisk the eggs and sugar together until thick, pale, and airy to provide the sponge with structure and lift. Gently fold in the sifted flour to keep the batter light and tender. Spread the batter evenly on a lined baking pan, then bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 12-15 minutes until the sponge is golden and springs back when touched.
Brew and Prep the Coffee Soak: While the sponge cools, brew a cup of strong espresso. Mix in rum or coffee liqueur if desired. This coffee soak will be brushed onto the sponge later to impart that signature tiramisu flavor.
Make the Mascarpone Cream: Whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. Separately, combine mascarpone cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture to create a light, velvety filling.
Assemble the Log: Carefully roll the cooled sponge into a log shape while still slightly warm to avoid cracks, applying generous brushings of the coffee soak as you roll. Unroll gently, spread a layer of mascarpone cream evenly over the surface, then re-roll into the final log shape, ensuring an even distribution of cream inside.
Decorate and Chill: Cover the entire yule log with the remaining mascarpone cream. Dust the top generously with cocoa powder and optionally add chocolate shavings or edible gold dust for a festive look. Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight to let flavors meld and the roll to set firm.

Notes

Use room temperature eggs and mascarpone to help the sponge rise better and achieve a smooth cream.
Do not oversoak the sponge; a few generous brushings prevent sogginess.
Roll the cake while warm for easier shaping and to avoid cracks.
Chill thoroughly to enhance flavor blending and firm the roll.
Choose high-quality mascarpone for the best creamy texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 100g)
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 50mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: Tiramisu, Yule log, Coffee dessert, Mascarpone cake, Holiday cake, Gluten-free dessert, Coffee cream cake