Decadent Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll Recipe Delight

Name: Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 3 large eggs (room temperature); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup fresh cherries (pitted); 1 cup heavy cream (for ganache); 8 oz dark chocolate (chopped)

Recipe By:

Howdy

Posted:

November 5, 2025

Updated:

November 5, 2025

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Imagine this: a rich, velvety chocolate cake rolled up with a luscious cherry filling, drizzled with silky chocolate ganache that glistens in the light. This Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds and brings back fond memories of holiday gatherings.

Every Christmas, I’d eagerly await my grandmother’s baking extravaganza. The scent of chocolate wafting through the house is forever etched in my memory, making this delightful roll the star of our seasonal festivities. It’s perfect for impressing friends and family at holiday parties or cozy nights by the fire.

Why You'll Love This Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll

This incredible Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Sharing this dessert at our family gatherings always leads to smiles and compliments, especially when someone takes that first bite and their eyes light up.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for a tender texture that holds together perfectly without being too dense.
Cocoa Powder: Opt for unsweetened cocoa powder to achieve that rich chocolate flavor without unnecessary sweetness.
Granulated Sugar: Regular granulated sugar works best here; it helps balance the flavors beautifully.
Baking Powder: Make sure it’s fresh to ensure your cake rises perfectly and is pillowy soft.
Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature for optimal mixing and fluffy results.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds depth; avoid imitation if you can for an authentic taste.
Sour Cream: This ingredient keeps the cake moist and adds a delightful tang to balance the sweetness.
Fresh Cherries: Preferably pitted; they add a burst of juicy flavor that complements the chocolate wonderfully.
Chocolate Ganache: Made from heavy cream and dark chocolate, this luscious topping elevates your Yule log to new heights.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll

How to Make Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll

Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to ensure easy removal later.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step ensures even distribution of flavors throughout your cake.

Create Your Batter: In another bowl, beat eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy. Gradually add vanilla extract and sour cream while mixing until smooth—this will create an airy batter full of flavor.

Bake Your Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Roll It Up: Once baked, invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully remove the parchment paper and roll it up tightly in the towel while still warm—this helps maintain its shape as it cools.

Create Your Filling: While your log cools down completely, combine fresh cherries with some sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat until they soften slightly. Then let them cool before using them in your roll.

Add Ganache Topping: For the ganache, heat heavy cream just until simmering. Pour it over chopped dark chocolate in a bowl; let sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth—this luxurious layer will take your dessert over the top!

Each step builds upon itself like layers of flavor and joy! As you piece everything together, remember to enjoy every moment—after all, cooking should be fun!

Once you’ve followed these steps carefully, slice into your masterpiece! The combination of rich chocolate cake with tart cherries topped off by silky ganache is pure bliss! Happy baking!

You Must Know About Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll

This showstopping Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To make your Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll a success, start with the cake. Bake it first while preparing the filling. Once the cake cools, whip up the cherry filling and chocolate ganache simultaneously. This sequence ensures everything is ready around the same time, minimizing stress and chaos in your kitchen.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to personalize your Yule log by swapping out cherries for raspberries or strawberries for a different fruity twist. You can also try adding a splash of almond extract to enhance the flavor profile. Don’t hesitate to experiment with decorations like crushed nuts or edible glitter to elevate its festive appeal.

Storing & Reheating

To keep your Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you need to reheat it, pop individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat without compromising its texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll

This professional-quality Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

I once made this Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll for a holiday gathering, and my friends declared me a culinary wizard! Their delighted reactions reaffirmed my love for baking—there’s nothing quite like sharing homemade treats with loved ones.

FAQ

How long does it take to make a Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll?

Making a Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll typically takes about 90 minutes from start to finish. Allow yourself an hour to bake and cool the cake, then approximately 30 minutes to prepare and assemble the filling and ganache before decorating.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake one day in advance, wrap it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just remember to prepare the filling and ganache closer to serving time for optimal freshness.

What type of chocolate should I use for ganache?

Using high-quality semi-sweet chocolate will yield a rich flavor that balances well with the tartness of cherries. If you prefer dark chocolate, feel free to use that as an alternative; just adjust sugar levels accordingly.

Can I freeze my Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll?

Yes! Wrap your assembled roll tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil before freezing it. It can be stored frozen for up to three months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Conclusion for Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll

In conclusion, mastering the art of making a Chocolate-Cherry Yule Log Roll is both rewarding and fun! With tips on perfecting your cooking process, customizing flavors, and proper storage techniques, you’re fully equipped to impress anyone at your next gathering. Remember to enjoy the journey as much as you savor each delicious slice!