Introduction

This Gourmet Tiramisu Yule Log Cake brings together the classic flavors of tiramisu in a festive, rolled cake form. Light espresso-infused sponge pairs perfectly with a rich mascarpone filling, making it a stunning centerpiece for any holiday gathering.

A light brown spiral cake roll with three even layers, filled with white cream swirled inside and coated with a thin white cream layer on the outside; the top is dusted with cocoa powder and decorated with three dark brown chocolate curls placed in a row; the cake sits on a white marble cutting board sprinkled with cocoa powder, surrounded by small pieces of chocolate; in the background, a white cup filled with coffee is slightly blurred, with soft warm string lights adding a cozy feel over a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/3 cup plain flour
3 large egg yolks
2 large eggs
2 large egg whites
1 1/2 tsp instant espresso powder (Medaglia D’Oro recommended)
5 tbsp sugar
3 tbsp sugar
7/8 cup heavy cream (cold, for best whipping)
3 tbsp confectioners’ sugar
3/4 tsp vanilla extract (pure vanilla for rich flavor)
1/2 cup mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
2 tbsp coffee liqueur
Cocoa powder (for dusting)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400℉ (200℃). Line a jellyroll pan with parchment paper and lightly coat it with baking spray. Sift together the flour and espresso powder, then set aside.
Step 2: Using an electric mixer with a whisk attachment, beat the egg whites until foamy. Gradually add 5 tablespoons sugar, continuing to beat until medium peaks form. Set aside. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks, whole eggs, and 3 tablespoons sugar until they reach the ribbon stage (about 5–10 minutes).
Step 3: Gently fold the egg white mixture into the yolk mixture in three additions to keep the batter airy. Then fold in the sifted flour and espresso powder mixture just until combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spread evenly, and tap to remove air bubbles. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until done.
Step 4: Immediately dust the warm cake with cocoa powder. Turn the cake onto a fresh piece of parchment paper, remove the original parchment, and carefully roll the cake and parchment together from the short end. Let cool rolled for about 20 minutes, then gently unroll and allow to cool completely.
Step 5: While cooling, whip the heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and coffee liqueur until soft peaks form. Fold in the mascarpone cheese gently. Spread half the filling evenly over the cooled cake, leaving a ¼ inch border.
Step 6: Roll the cake tightly from the same side once more. Frost the outside with the remaining filling and dust with cocoa powder. Trim the ends before serving for a clean look. Enjoy your elegant tiramisu yule log!

Tips & Variations

Use cold heavy cream for best whipping results and a fluffier filling.
For a non-alcoholic version, omit the coffee liqueur and replace with an equal amount of strong brewed coffee or espresso.
Allow the cake to cool completely before spreading the filling to prevent melting or sogginess.
For extra texture, sprinkle finely chopped dark chocolate over the filling before rolling.

Storage

Keep the tiramisu yule log covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture. Avoid freezing as the mascarpone filling may become grainy upon thawing.

How to Serve

A slice of rolled cake sits on a white plate with a white marbled surface underneath, showing three clear layers: a light brown sponge cake base, a creamy white filling spiraled inside the cake, and a thick white cream layer covering the top. The top cream layer is dusted evenly with cocoa powder, adding a soft brown tone, and is decorated with dark brown chocolate curls arranged in the center. A silver fork held by a woman's hand is touching the side of the cake, slightly lifting a piece, while some cocoa powder is scattered lightly around the plate’s edge. The background is softly blurred with warm lights adding a cozy feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cake up to a day ahead. Store it wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge to maintain freshness, then assemble and frost on the day you plan to serve.

What can I substitute for mascarpone cheese?

If mascarpone is unavailable, a mix of cream cheese and heavy cream can be used as a substitute to achieve similar texture and flavor, though the taste will be slightly tangier.