The orange Yule log: a delicious treat and easy to share for an unforgettable Christmas

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• Essential ingredients to make a successful orange Yule log for 4 people 🎄🍊
• How I go about making this orange Yule log, and especially how to succeed without stress
• Little tips and ideas to sprinkle magic on your orange Yule log 🍫✨
• Why is this orange Yule log perfect for your year-end celebrations? 🍊🎉
  • Essential utensils for this orange Yule log
• The little extras that change everything to elevate your Yule log
  • Can this Yule log be prepared in advance?
  • Can dark chocolate be replaced with another type of chocolate?
  • How to prevent the sponge from breaking when rolling it?
  • Can I add liquor to the orange compote?
  • How to decorate the Yule log nicely?
• Orange Yule Log for Christmas
  • Ingrédients
  • Instructions
  • Video
  • Notes
  • Nutrition Facts

I must confess that, texture-wise, I love when the orange Yule log stays moist, not dry at all, a bit melting. This log doesn’t cheat: the light sponge with the orange compote and this dark chocolate ganache, wow, it dances well in the mouth. Well, I warn you, it has a bit of character, not a bland pastry here.

Another thing I like is that it can be prepared the day before, which is perfect when you’re all in on decorating and the rest of the preparations. And then, it never lasts long at the table, you have to admit that the citrus-chocolate combination is always a real success.

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If you want to vary it up, I even have a few tips for you to customize this Yule log the 2025 way, with little things that change everything. Come on, let’s dive into the ingredients and method, because I’m sure you’re going to enjoy it!

Essential ingredients to make a successful orange Yule log for 4 people 🎄🍊

So, for this treat, you’ll need some basics, nothing complicated. Be careful, choose oranges that aren’t too bitter so the balance is perfect. Honestly, your choice of oranges can change everything; I often take blood oranges, I love their punch.

• 4 oranges (very juicy)
• 3 eggs (not too big)
• 20 g butter (for the indulgent touch)
• 20 cl liquid cream (careful, not thick cream for a perfect ganache)
• 2 tbsp cold milk
• 200 g dark chocolate (the more you like bitter chocolate, the darker it should be)
• 225 g powdered sugar (to be divided for the compote and the dough)
• 1 packet of vanilla sugar (just the right amount of flavor)
• 75 g flour (sifted to avoid lumps)

Don’t worry, you can sneak a quick look at this detailed recipe if you want to explore more variations.

How I go about making this orange Yule log, and especially how to succeed without stress

I warn you, at first, I was a bit afraid that rolling the Yule log would be complicated, but actually, if you take the sponge out still warm and roll it immediately in a clean towel, it’s child’s play.

So, here’s how I do it: first, I peel my oranges raw, I remove all the white pith (I admit, it takes a bit of time but it avoids bitterness). I cut the pulp into small cubes, then I slowly cook it with 150 g of sugar. You’ll see, it slowly compotes and is super fragrant.

For the sponge, I separate my eggs, beat the yolks with 75 g of sugar (the rest, I reserve for the oranges). When it’s frothy, I add flour and milk, then I beat the whites until stiff. Then you have to gently fold to keep the lightness.

Hop, into the oven at 210°C, it bakes quickly, about 10 minutes tops. I take the sponge out, detach it onto a damp towel, spread the orange compote all over while still cold, and then, roll away! Let it cool flat, that’s the key so it doesn’t crack too much.

The chocolate glaze is a pure moment of happiness: heat the cream, grate the chocolate, pour the cream over the chocolate, wait a bit, then stir for a smooth ganache. I cover the log, make striations with a fork, and put it in the fridge. The final touch, a bit of icing sugar just before serving and bam, the wow effect is guaranteed.

If you want an even richer version, I found one with mascarpone at this link, very tempting for lovers of ultra-creamy texture.

Little tips and ideas to sprinkle magic on your orange Yule log 🍫✨

Seriously, depending on your mood, you can very easily vary this recipe. I bet on a bit of crunch by adding caramelized hazelnut pieces on the ganache, it reminds me of Christmas markets. And a fresh orange zest on top always makes a nice effect.

If you’re tired of dark chocolate, believe me, trying milk or even white chocolate is another world. Softer, more nostalgic. If you want a fresh twist, a visit to Marie Claire cuisine will give you plenty of ideas.

To change the shape (okay, I’m a bit classic), you can even make a tiramisu-style version, soaking the base in orange juice with a lemon mascarpone mousse. This recipe is like a blank canvas, you do as you feel and it works every time.

No doubt, this light, tangy and comforting Yule log will quickly become a classic at your place, I tell you. Oh, and don’t hesitate to check out the easy chocolate-orange version here Lustensile, super handy when you want to do it fast but well.

Why is this orange Yule log perfect for your year-end celebrations? 🍊🎉

Because it combines indulgence and freshness, without weighing down the meal. Your guests will love it, especially those who find desserts too sweet a bit heavy. Here, the orange brings that tangy side that balances the chocolate.

Moreover, it’s pretty to present. A few candied orange zests, a drizzle of melted chocolate, and you feel like you made a pastry worthy of a chef without stressing. Honestly, you can go for it with your eyes closed.

Finally, it frees you from last-minute stress. Prepared the day before, it leaves time to truly enjoy the preparations, and that’s precious when you want Christmas to be a calm and joyful moment.

Essential utensils for this orange Yule log

• A sponge cake mold or rolled biscuit tray 🧁
• An electric whisk (or a good old manual whisk if you’re motivated) 🥄
• A flexible spatula (essential for spreading the compote without breaking everything) 🍊
• Wax paper (your kitchen friends will thank you!) 🧻
• A clean towel (for rolling the log without damaging it) 🧼
• A bowl to prepare the chocolate ganache 🍫
• A fork to make striations on the ganache 🎨

These few tools are more than enough, no need to have the whole kitchen set.

The little extras that change everything to elevate your Yule log

• ✨ Caramelized hazelnut pieces or toasted almonds for crunch
• ✨ Fresh or candied orange zest for aroma and decoration
• ✨ A little Grand Marnier in the compote for an alcoholic kick (but not too much, huh)
• ✨ Light dusting of icing sugar at the last moment for guaranteed winter effect
• ✨ Serve with custard or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the indulgent ones

Want several ideas to perfect your dessert? The Cuisine AZ website is a real gold mine.

Can this Yule log be prepared in advance?

Yes, it is even recommended. Prepare it the day before so that the flavors blend well and the texture holds perfectly when serving.

Can dark chocolate be replaced with another type of chocolate?

Absolutely, you can use milk or white chocolate according to your preferences, keeping in mind that the taste will be milder.

How to prevent the sponge from breaking when rolling it?

You need to roll it while warm, immediately after baking, with a slightly damp towel to prevent it from drying out or cracking. Let it cool rolled this way.

Can I add liquor to the orange compote?

Yes, a bit of Grand Marnier or Cointreau works very well to bring a little festive touch without overpowering the other flavors.

How to decorate the Yule log nicely?

Candied orange zests, a drizzle of melted chocolate, a hint of icing sugar and some hazelnuts or toasted almond pieces always create a great impression.