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Gingerbread Yule Log

Delightful Gingerbread Yule Log with Creamy Rum Frosting

This Gingerbread Yule Log is a festive dessert combining rich flavors with creamy rum frosting, perfect for holiday celebrations.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 21 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking powder No substitutions.
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon Ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt
  • 3 large Eggs For a vegan option, substitute with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg.
  • 3/4 cup Brown sugar Can be substituted with coconut sugar or white sugar.
  • 1/2 cup Molasses Substitutes are dark corn syrup or agave nectar.
  • 1/4 cup Unsalted butter Substitute with coconut oil for dairy-free option.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Almond extract can be used for a different flavor.
For the Frosting
  • 8 ounces Cream cheese Choose vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
  • 1/4 cup Spiced rum Bourbon or brandy works as a substitute, or omit for non-alcoholic.
  • 2 cups Powdered sugar No substitutes can provide the same texture.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream Coconut cream can be used for non-dairy.
Optional Decorations
  • 1 sprig Fresh rosemary
  • 1 cup Cranberries
  • 4 small Pinecones
  • 1 tablespoon Cinnamon sugar

Equipment

  • Half sheet pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a half sheet pan with parchment paper, letting it overhang on the edges.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, nutmeg, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the molasses, melted butter, and vanilla extract, then gradually add the dry ingredients.
  3. Spread the batter evenly across the prepared pan. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the center of the cake springs back lightly when touched. Once done, remove it from the oven and prepare for rolling.
  4. While the cake is still warm, carefully lift the parchment paper to roll the cake from one end to the other, creating a log shape. Set aside to cool completely at room temperature, wrapped in parchment.
  5. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and spiced rum together until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, then pour in the heavy cream until the frosting reaches a fluffy consistency.
  6. Unroll the cooled gingerbread cake carefully. Spread half of the frosting evenly onto the surface of the cake. Roll the cake back up tightly, seam side down on a serving plate.
  7. Using the remaining frosting, cover the outside of the Yule Log, mimicking tree bark. Garnish with optional decorations for a festive touch.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3.5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 800IUCalcium: 60mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Warm rolling helps to prevent cracks. Measure spices carefully for best results. Adjust frosting consistency if needed.

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