Name: Easy Cake Mix Yule Log
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 eggs; 13.25 oz box chocolate cake mix; ⅓ cup water; ¼ cup vegetable oil or canola oil; 1 tablespoon powdered sugar; 12 oz can peppermint, vanilla or marshmallow frosting (see notes to make your own); 12 oz whipped chocolate frosting, canned or homemade; Fresh cranberries (to sugar for decoration); Fresh rosemary sprigs (to sugar for decoration)

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If you’re searching for a holiday dessert that combines festive charm with simplicity, the Easy Cake Mix Yule Log is your perfect pick. This enchanting Swiss roll-style cake uses a chocolate cake mix base that’s whipped up quickly, then filled with luscious marshmallow frosting and enveloped in a rich chocolate buttercream that mimics the texture of tree bark. Topped with sugared cranberries and sprigs of fresh rosemary, it’s not only beautiful to behold but also an absolute delight to eat. Trust me, once you make this Easy Cake Mix Yule Log, it’ll become your go-to showstopper for every holiday celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you—each one plays a crucial role in crafting the moist texture, decadent flavor, and stunning presentation of this yule log. From the chocolate cake mix to the fresh garnishes, every component comes together to create a harmonious and delightful dessert.

6 eggs: These help give the cake a light, airy texture that’s easy to roll without cracking.
13.25 oz box chocolate cake mix: The foundation for that rich, chocolatey flavor that everyone loves.
⅓ cup water: Adds moisture to keep the cake perfectly tender.
¼ cup vegetable oil or canola oil: Enhances the cake’s softness and moistness.
1 tablespoon powdered sugar: Used to dust the towel preventing the cake from sticking as you roll it.
12 oz can peppermint, vanilla, or marshmallow frosting: A creamy, sweet filling that adds a luscious contrast to the chocolate cake.
12 oz whipped chocolate frosting (canned or homemade): This frosting coats the outside for that classic bark look and rich finish.
Fresh cranberries and rosemary: Garnishes that lend a festive, wintery vibe while adding a pop of color.

How to Make Easy Cake Mix Yule Log

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF for that perfect baking temperature. Then beat the eggs vigorously for about 5 minutes until they become frothy and pale yellow—this step is key to creating a light cake. Next, mix in the cake mix, water, and oil on low speed until just combined, making sure your batter is smooth and ready to spread evenly.

Step 2: Bake the Cake Sheet

Line a 12×18-inch baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicon liner and spray it generously with baking spray, including the sides. Pour your batter onto the sheet, smoothing it out evenly to ensure it bakes uniformly and prevents cracking. Pop it into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Timing here is crucial because overbaking will dry the cake and make rolling difficult.

Step 3: Cool and Roll the Cake

Once baked, let the cake cool for 5-10 minutes—not too long or it will become brittle. Lay a linen kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar over the warm cake, flip it carefully so the cake sits on the towel, and peel off the liner. Then gently roll the cake with the towel inside to start its spiral form, setting it seam-side down on a cooling rack for at least 15 minutes. This technique helps prevent cracks and sets the shape perfectly.

Step 4: Add the Filling

After cooling, carefully unroll the cake and spread your chosen frosting evenly all the way to the edges. Whether you opt for marshmallow, peppermint, or vanilla frosting, this layer adds the creamy contrast that makes each bite so irresistible. Roll gently but tightly back up to form your log, placing it seam-side down on your serving plate.

Step 5: Frost and Decorate

Frost the outside of the log generously with whipped chocolate frosting to create that classic yule log bark effect. Use a fork to add texture by dragging it lightly across the frosting to mimic tree bark. If you want to get fancy, cut an angled slice from the side for a branch and frost that too, giving your log a rustic, natural feel that will wow your guests.

How to Serve Easy Cake Mix Yule Log

Garnishes

The finishing touches on your Easy Cake Mix Yule Log are what elevate it from simple to spectacular. Sugared cranberries and fresh rosemary sprigs are classic garnishes that bring color, texture, and a festive aroma. Dipping the cranberries and rosemary in sugar beforehand gives a frosted, wintry effect that sparkles beautifully against the dark chocolate frosting.

Side Dishes

This yule log is rich and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of raspberry sauce can add a complementary flavor profile that brightens the plate. If you want to serve something lighter, a fresh fruit salad with citrus segments cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can be as fun as baking! Lay your finished log on a festive platter surrounded by pine cones, small edible mushrooms made from meringue, or even tiny fondant woodland creatures. Adding some powdered sugar “snow” or placing the cake on a rustic wooden board also sparks a charming winter woodland vibe that guests will remember.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers—and honestly, that might be wishful thinking—wrap your Easy Cake Mix Yule Log tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled preserves the freshness of the frosting and filling while maintaining that moist cake texture.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the entire log securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to avoid condensation on the frosting, which helps keep its beautiful bark texture intact.

Reheating

Since this is a frosted cake, reheating isn’t really recommended as it may soften or melt the frosting. Instead, bring the cake to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. If you prefer a slightly warmer dessert, a warm beverage on the side pairs wonderfully without altering the yule log itself.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade chocolate cake instead of a mix?

Absolutely! While the Easy Cake Mix Yule Log relies on a cake mix for convenience, a sturdy homemade chocolate sponge works just as well, especially if it’s light and flexible enough to roll without cracking.

What if I don’t have a 12×18 baking sheet?

You can use a smaller sheet pan but expect a thicker cake that might require a longer baking time. Just watch closely to avoid overbaking or cracking when rolling.

Can I make the frostings from scratch?

Definitely! Making your own marshmallow filling and chocolate buttercream frosting is a great way to personalize flavors. It might take a bit more time, but the homemade taste is unbeatable.

How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

Rolling while the cake is still warm and using a powdered sugar-dusted kitchen towel is the key. The towel supports the cake and prevents sticking while the warmth ensures flexibility.

Is it okay to use canned frosting for the filling and frosting?

Yes! This Easy Cake Mix Yule Log is designed to be simple and budget-friendly, so canned frostings work wonderfully and keep the process quick without sacrificing deliciousness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly special about creating a festive dessert that looks like a work of art but comes together with such ease, and that’s exactly what the Easy Cake Mix Yule Log delivers. Whether it’s your first time or you’re already a Yule Log aficionado, this recipe is guaranteed to spread joy at your table. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and make some holiday magic happen—you won’t regret it!