The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a show-stopping Buche de Noel? This classic French dessert has become a staple of Christmas celebrations around the world. With its delicate, log-shaped design and rich, buttery flavor, it’s no wonder why this sweet treat is a crowd-pleaser.
From classic chocolate variations to creative twists featuring flavors like pumpkin spice and matcha green tea, we’ve gathered 19 decadent Buche de Noel recipes to inspire your holiday baking. Whether you’re looking for a traditional French flair or something new and innovative, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll take a journey through the world of Buche de Noel, exploring flavors both familiar and unexpected. From rich, velvety frostings to tender, buttery cakes, each recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you feeling merry and bright.
Classic Chocolate Buche de Noel with Mocha Buttercream
Celebrate the magic of Christmas with this show-stopping chocolate yule log cake, topped with a rich and creamy mocha buttercream frosting. This elegant dessert is sure to impress your holiday guests.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup (85g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
For the mocha buttercream:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons instant coffee powder
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan.
2. Prepare the cake according to package instructions or recipe of your choice.
3. Allow the cake to cool completely, then spread with mocha buttercream.
4. Roll the cake into a log shape and decorate as desired.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 20-25 minutes
Vanilla Bean Buche de Noel with Raspberry Filling
This classic French Christmas cake is a showstopper, filled with the sweetness of vanilla and the tartness of raspberries. With its elegant spiral design and vibrant red filling, it’s sure to impress your holiday guests.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
For the filling:
– 1 cup (200g) fresh raspberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10-inch (25cm) tube pan or Bundt pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks, milk, and vanilla bean seeds.
3. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cake to cool completely before filling with raspberry mixture.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Buche de Noel with Cream Cheese Frosting
This seasonal twist on the classic French dessert combines the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the tender crumb of genoise cake, topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for a fall or winter holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan or Bundt pan.
2. Whisk together cake ingredients in a large bowl until smooth.
3. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Allow cake to cool completely on a wire rack.
5. Beat frosting ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
6. Assemble cake by spreading frosting on top of cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Buche de Noel with White Chocolate Ganache
Celebrate the holiday season with a unique and delicious French-inspired dessert, infused with the subtle bitterness of matcha green tea. This Buche de Noel is perfect for a Christmas party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 2 tablespoons matcha green tea powder
– 2 large eggs
– White chocolate ganache (recipe below)
– Fresh holly leaves or red berries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×5-inch (25x13cm) jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, matcha powder, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow cake to cool completely before filling with white chocolate ganache.
White Chocolate Ganache:
– 1 cup (250g) white chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Melt white chocolate in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth. Stir in heavy cream until combined.
Eggnog Buche de Noel with Rum-Infused Whipped Cream
Celebrate the holiday season with this rich and creamy Eggnog Buche de Noel, infused with the warmth of rum and topped with a dollop of whipped cream.
Ingredients:
For the Buche:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup eggnog
– 1/4 cup rum (optional)
For the Rum-Infused Whipped Cream:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons dark rum
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 10×5-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and eggs. Add butter, vanilla extract, and eggnog; mix until smooth.
3. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Allow the Buche to cool completely before serving with Rum-Infused Whipped Cream (mix heavy cream, sugar, and rum in a bowl and whip until stiff peaks form).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peppermint Chocolate Buche de Noel with Candy Cane Garnish
This festive holiday dessert combines the flavors of peppermint and chocolate in a classic French-inspired Yule log cake. Topped with a crushed candy cane garnish, this show-stopping treat is sure to impress your holiday guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) confectioners’ sugar
– 4 large egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream and peppermint extract until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
4. In another bowl, combine confectioners’ sugar, egg whites, and salt. Beat until stiff peaks form.
5. Pour melted chocolate into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
6. Top with whipped cream mixture and smooth out.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until set.
8. Allow to cool completely before slicing and serving. Garnish with crushed candy canes.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Curd Buche de Noel with Lemon Glaze
This show-stopping Christmas dessert combines the rich flavors of lemon curd and chocolate cake, topped with a tangy and sweet lemon glaze. Perfect for holiday gatherings!
Ingredients:
For the Buche de Noel:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Lemon Curd:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
For the Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare Buche de Noel according to recipe instructions.
2. Make Lemon Curd by whisking together butter, sugar, egg yolks, lemon juice, and zest until smooth. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
3. Assemble the cake by spreading a layer of Lemon Curd on top of cooled Buche de Noel.
4. Prepare Lemon Glaze by whisking powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cake.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Salted Caramel Buche de Noel with Pecan Praline Topping
Salted Caramel Buche de Noel with Pecan Praline Topping: A decadent French-inspired yule log cake infused with the deep flavors of salted caramel and crunchy pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (250g) confectioners’ sugar
– 4 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
– Salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought), for filling and drizzling
– Pecan praline topping (recipe below)
Pecan Praline Topping:
– 1/2 cup (60g) pecans, toasted and chopped
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp light corn syrup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the cake batter according to the recipe. Pour into prepared pan and smooth.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely.
4. Assemble the log by spreading salted caramel sauce on top, then rolling the cake tightly.
5. Drizzle with additional salted caramel sauce and sprinkle with pecan praline topping.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes (including prep time)
Tiramisu-Inspired Buche de Noel with Coffee Soaked Sponge
Experience the perfect fusion of French and Italian traditions with this unique holiday dessert. This Tiramisu-inspired Buche de Noel is a show-stopping centerpiece for any Christmas celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add butter, coffee, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
3. Fold in flour mixture and ladyfingers.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Let cool completely before filling with whipped cream and garnishing with chocolate shavings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cherry Almond Buche de Noel with Marzipan Decorations
This show-stopping Cherry Almond Buche de Noel is a French-inspired holiday classic, featuring a moist and flavorful cake filled with cherry compote and topped with a delicate marzipan design.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 cup (120g) marzipan, colored with a few drops of red food coloring
– Cherry compote (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch (25cm) tube pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and eggs in a medium bowl. Add softened butter, milk, and almond extract; mix until smooth.
3. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Allow cake to cool completely before filling with cherry compote.
5. Roll out marzipan on a lightly floured surface to desired thickness. Cut out decorations, such as holly leaves or berries.
6. Place cake on a serving plate and decorate with marzipan designs.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gluten-Free Buche de Noel with Almond Flour Sponge
Celebrate the holiday season with this gluten-free twist on the classic French Christmas log cake, made possible by the use of almond flour sponge.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, eggs, sugar, and salt until smooth.
3. Add milk and melted butter; whisk until well combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan; spread evenly.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before filling with your favorite cream or buttercream.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Chocolate Orange Buche de Noel with Candied Orange Peel
This show-stopping dessert combines the classic French yule log, buche de noel, with the brightness of candied orange peel and the richness of chocolate. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this impressive cake is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 6 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup candied orange peel, finely chopped (see note)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth.
3. Pour in melted chocolate and whisk until combined. Fold in heavy cream and salt.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes or until set.
5. Allow cake to cool completely before filling with whipped cream and decorating with candied orange peel.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Coconut Lime Buche de Noel with Toasted Coconut Flakes
Celebrate the holiday season with a twist on the classic French Yule log cake, infused with the tropical flavors of coconut and lime. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons grated lime zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Toasted coconut flakes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch log-shaped cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and unsweetened shredded coconut.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, softened butter, lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool before filling with whipped cream and garnishing with toasted coconut flakes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Red Velvet Buche de Noel with Cream Cheese Frosting
This majestic Christmas log cake is a showstopper, perfect for the holiday season. With its deep red color and creamy frosting, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons red food coloring
– 1 cup buttermilk
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and buttermilk. Add softened butter and red food coloring; whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; whisk until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cake cool completely before spreading with cream cheese frosting.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Chai Spiced Buche de Noel with Cardamom Whipped Cream
This Chai Spiced Buche de Noel is a unique twist on the traditional French Yule log cake, infused with the warm and comforting flavors of chai spices. Paired with cardamom whipped cream, it’s a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the whipped cream:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and spices.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cake to cool before filling with whipped cream (whip heavy cream with softened butter and ground cardamom).
6. Assemble the Buche de Noel by spreading whipped cream on top of cooled cake, then roll up tightly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Black Forest Buche de Noel with Cherry Compote
Celebrate the holiday season with this traditional Black Forest Buche de Noel, a rich chocolate cake filled with whipped cream and cherries. The addition of a sweet cherry compote adds an extra layer of flavor and festive flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup (85g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (60g) cherry jam or preserves
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– Fresh cherries, for garnish
– Cherry compote ingredients: 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch (25cm) tube pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk milk, eggs, and cherry jam until smooth.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before filling with whipped cream and cherries.
7. To make the cherry compote, combine cherries, sugar, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (cake) + 10-15 minutes (compote)
Espresso Buche de Noel with Dark Chocolate Shavings
A classic French dessert gets a boost of caffeine and richness with this espresso-infused Yule log cake, topped with dark chocolate shavings. Perfect for a holiday party or special gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
– Salt to taste
– Dark chocolate shavings, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and yeast.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, melted butter, and espresso powder. Gradually add dry ingredients; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow cake to cool completely before slicing and serving with dark chocolate shavings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Hazelnut Praline Buche de Noel with Chocolate Ganache
Celebrate the holiday season with this show-stopping French-inspired cake, featuring a moist hazelnut praline filling and rich chocolate ganache.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the hazelnut praline filling:
– 1/2 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the chocolate ganache:
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan.
2. Whisk together cake ingredients; pour into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Allow cake to cool completely. Make hazelnut praline filling by whisking together chopped hazelnuts, sugar, and melted butter. Spread on cooled cake.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler; stir in heavy cream. Pour over cake.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Buche de Noel with Fresh Strawberry Filling
A sweet and elegant twist on the classic French Christmas dessert, this strawberry-filled buche de noel is perfect for a holiday party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a large rectangle.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
3. Place the strawberry mixture along the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
4. Brush edges with beaten egg and roll up the pastry tightly, starting from one end.
5. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests this holiday season with these 19 decadent Buche de Noel recipes! From classic chocolate and mocha to unique flavors like matcha green tea, pumpkin spice, and chai spiced, there’s a recipe for every taste. These French-inspired yule logs are sure to be the star of any holiday celebration. Try adding a twist to your holiday baking with these creative flavor combinations and stunning decorations.
