Gourmet Tiramisu Yule Log Cake
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)
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)
- 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