Canned Pumpkin Yule Log Cake: The Perfect Holiday Dessert for Families

As the festive season knocks at our doors, the kitchens seem to buzz with warmth from baking and fill the air with the sweet aroma of the festival desserts. It's time for families to sit around and share stories and laughter and, above all, yummy treats. Along with traditional Indian sweets, let's add a global twist to the center piece for the table.

Yule log cake or bûche de Noël is the ultimate holiday classic symbolizing warmth and togetherness. With canned pumpkin as the key ingredient, this version adds a unique seasonal twist to the traditional recipe. Its creamy filling, spiced cake layers, and decorative charm make it perfect for celebrating with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a holiday gathering, this pumpkin yule log cake is sure to impress and bring everyone closer over shared indulgence.

Recipe for Canned Pumpkin Yule Log Cake

Ingredients

For the Cake

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground ginger
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup canned pumpkin
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Filling

• 1 cup heavy cream (whipped)
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup canned pumpkin

For the Frosting

• 1 cup dark chocolate (melted)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Garnish

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Edible decorations such as holly leaves or berries

Method:

Preheat your oven to 180°C. Line a 10x15-inch baking tray with parchment paper.

Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a bowl. Set it aside.

In another bowl, beat eggs and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add canned pumpkin, vanilla extract, and salt, and mix until smooth. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until combined.

Spread the batter on the prepared baking tray in an even and thin manner. Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes or till it bounces back to a slight touch.

Gently lift the baked cake with a clean kitchen towel and sprinkle with powdered sugar and let cool completely.

In a mixing bowl, combine whipped cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and canned pumpkin. Mix until smooth and fluffy.

Unroll the cooled cake and spread the filling evenly over it. Carefully roll the cake back up without the towel, ensuring the filling stays intact.

In a bowl, beat the melted chocolate and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.

Spread frosting over top of rolled cake, texture with a forking utensil to simulate bark; dust with confection powder and garnish with edible decorations. Let chill 1 hour in refrigerator for best presentation at serving.

How to Choose a Canned Pumpkin

The right canned pumpkin is selected to ensure that your yule log cake tastes as it should. Select 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which often contains added sugar and spices. A smooth, creamy texture and a deep orange color are a good sign. Check the expiry date and avoid cans that are dented or have rust on them. Organic options yield a richer flavor.

How to Plate the Cake

Cut the yule log into even-sized pieces. Put each one on a dessert plate, and just lightly dust the top of it with some powdered sugar for that snow effect. Finish off this elegant piece by topping a dollop of whipped cream or side-dipping with a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Top this holiday fare with edible holly leaves or colored sprinkles and get merry.

Different pairings to add

Spiced Hot Chocolate

Pair the yule log cake with a steaming cup of spiced hot chocolate. The rich, velvety chocolate drink infused with cinnamon and nutmeg complements the pumpkin and chocolate in the cake, creating a warm and indulgent experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a refreshing contrast to the dense and spiced yule log. The cool, milky flavor balances the rich frosting and enhances the overall taste.

Mulled Apple Cider

Serve the cake with a glass of mulled apple cider for a unique festive pairing. The fruity and spicy notes of the cider beautifully echo the spices in the cake, making it a harmonious duo.

Storage Tips

Keep the pumpkin yule log cake refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. In case you want to prepare it ahead of time, you can freeze the rolled cake without frosting for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and thaw in the refrigerator before decorating. Remember to refrigerate leftovers for freshness and flavor.