Desserts

Mini Yule Logs

Mini Yule logs decorated for the holiday season

Mini Chocolate Yule Logs for a Festive Dessert

Turn a chocolate cake roll into charming mini Yule logs with a coating of chocolate ganache and a snowy dusting of powdered sugar. These individual treats capture the look of a traditional holiday centerpiece without the work of baking and rolling a cake from scratch.

With just a few ingredients and simple decorations, you can create a dessert that looks right at home on a Christmas platter.

Ingredients

  • 1 chocolate cake roll
  • 1 cup chocolate ganache, cooled until spreadable
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • Edible holiday decorations, such as sugar holly leaves and candy berries

Instructions

  1. Cut the cake roll.
    Place the chocolate cake roll on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice it crosswise into short, individual logs. Wipe the knife between cuts for neater edges.

  2. Coat with ganache.
    Arrange the logs on a serving plate or wire rack. Spread the chocolate ganache over the top and sides of each piece, leaving the cut ends exposed if you want to show off the swirl.

  3. Create a bark texture.
    While the ganache is still soft, gently drag a fork along its surface. Slightly uneven lines give the chocolate coating a rustic, tree-bark appearance.

  4. Add a snowy finish.
    Allow the ganache to set slightly, then use a fine-mesh sieve to dust each log lightly with powdered sugar.

  5. Decorate and serve.
    Finish with edible holly leaves, candy berries, or other food-safe festive decorations. Arrange the mini logs on a platter and serve.

Tips for a Beautiful Finish

  • Keep the ganache spreadable. If it is too warm, it may run off the cake; if it is too firm, let it soften slightly before coating.
  • Dust just before serving. Powdered sugar can dissolve into moist ganache over time, so a last-minute dusting gives the freshest snowy effect.
  • Choose edible decorations. Real holly leaves and berries are not safe to eat. Use candy, chocolate, or sugar versions instead.
  • Embrace a rustic look. Small ridges and swirls in the ganache make each log look more natural.

Serving and Storage

Serve these mini chocolate Yule logs with coffee, tea, or a few fresh berries to balance their richness. Store leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator, following the storage guidance for the original cake roll and its filling. Add powdered sugar and delicate decorations shortly before serving for the best appearance.

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