Indulge in the festive spirit with a twist on a classic dessert: the Black Forest Yule Log Cake, crafted effortlessly with a Nordic Ware tin. This stunning holiday treat combines the rich flavours of chocolate sponge and juicy cherry filling, and it is best served with a generous layer of whipped cream.
Using the Nordic Ware tin ensures that your cake not only tastes divine but also looks spectacular, with intricate designs that add a touch of elegance to your festive celebrations. Join me as I guide you through each step to create this show-stopping dessert that will impress your family and friends.
Why you’ll love this black forest yule log cake recipe
This rich and chocolatey black forest yule log cake is perfect warm with ice cream in the winter. When snow is falling outside and you’re tucked up on the sofa with a warm drink and a good book.
This recipe is straightforward and well-detailed, making it accessible even for novice bakers. With clear step-by-step instructions and helpful tips, anyone can create a stunning and delicious dessert that’s sure to impress at festive gatherings or special occasions.
The beautiful presentation of the Black Forest chocolate log makes it a showstopper on any dessert table. The combination of dark chocolate, vibrant cherries, and whipped cream creates an eye-catching treat.
At Christmas, we always make or buy a chocolate log cake for those in the family who do not like Christmas cake, pudding or mince pies. I will happily have them all. I made this cake a few weeks ago and I have been asked repeatedly to remake it as it was so good!
This wonderful cake recipe works very well as a bundt cake, log in the Nordic Ware log tin or a regular cake tin (divide the mix into two and sandwich together with extra cherry jam/preserve). I’ve done it in all three and it worked in each.
This is a very impressive cake and is more like a sublime pudding than cake so it works incredibly well no matter when you want it.
Ingredients – black forest yule log cake
For the full recipe and instructions scroll to the bottom of the page for the recipe card.
Dark Chocolate
This black forest cake recipe utilises high-quality dark chocolate, which adds a deep, rich flavour to the sponge and the ganache. Its slight bitterness perfectly balances the sweetness of the cherries and cream, creating a sophisticated dessert that appeals to chocolate lovers.
Cherries
The cherries provide a tart and juicy contrast to the dense chocolate sponge. Used both in the filling and as a topping, they introduce a fruity freshness that cuts through the richness of the chocolate, adding complexity and balance to each bite.
Whipping Cream
Whipping cream is essential for the light and airy texture of the filling and topping. It creates a smooth, creamy layer that complements the dense chocolate sponge and tangy cherries, adding a luxurious mouthfeel and enhancing the overall indulgence of the dessert.
Cocoa Powder
High-quality cocoa powder is used to intensify the chocolate flavour of the sponge. It provides a rich, dark colour and a robust taste that forms the foundation of this decadent dessert, ensuring every bite is deeply chocolaty and satisfying.
How to Make black forest yule log cake – Step by Step
Keep scrolling to find the full printable instructions and ingredient quantities.
How to Grease a Nordic Ware Cake Tin
Preheat the oven and line a baking tray. Brush melted butter into the nordic ware cake tin and then sieve flour on top. Make sure to get flour into all the grooves and ridges.
Making the cake
Cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time and beat.
Sieve in your cocoa powder and flour. Add the bicarb and salt also.
Mix them all together. Add the yoghurt and jam/conserve to the butter/egg mix.
Top Tips
Thoroughly grease and line the yule log cake tin to ensure easy removal of the cake without sticking or breaking.
Fill the tin evenly and tap it on the counter to release air bubbles, ensuring the cake bakes uniformly with a smooth surface.
To enhance the flavor and texture of your chocolate cake, try adding a shot of freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee to the batter. This will deepen the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee
black forest yule log cake – Serving Suggestions
This black forest chocolate yule log cake is perfect when served warm and with a simple drizzle of thick cream. It tastes wonderful as is.
Slice it and serve with a few chopped cherries to really elevate your dessert.
Equipment
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If you don’t have the Yule log cake tin – make this black forest cake in 2x 8-inch cake tins.
Substitutions and variations – black forest yule log cake
Gluten Free Flour
Substituting gluten-free flour for a Black Forest yule log cake offers a suitable option for those with dietary restrictions. Adjust baking time and temperature accordingly to maintain moisture and structure.
Bundt Tin
If you don’t have a yule log tin, try baking this chocolate cherry yule log in a bundt tin. This still ensures your cake looks stunning without the effort of rolling a yule log or having the posh tin.
Storing black forest yule log cake / Making ahead of time options
Storing leftovers
To store leftover Black Forest yule log cake, first ensure it is completely cooled. Place it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap well and freeze for up to 1 month.
Freezing
Wrap tightly in several layers of plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Place in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, squeezing out excess air before sealing. Label with the date and freeze for up to 1-2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving
Reheating
You can reheat the black forest yule log cake in the microwave in short bursts. This makes it a lovely winter treat.
black forest yule log cake FAQS
- Why is Nordic Ware so expensive?
- Do you need to spray Nordic Ware pans?
- What is the difference between a Black Forest cake and a black forest gateau?
- What is the significance of a Yule log cake?
- How do I clean my Nordic Ware?
Why is Nordic Ware so expensive?
Nordic Ware is known for its quality craftsmanship and durability, making it a favourite among home bakers and professional chefs alike. Their products are meticulously designed in the USA, often using high-grade materials that ensure even baking and longevity. The brand’s reputation for innovative designs and reliable performance justifies its higher price point, offering customers value through superior baking results and lasting kitchenware.
Do you need to spray Nordic Ware pans?
Yes, it’s recommended to spray or grease Nordic Ware pans before use, even if they are non-stick. This helps ensure easy release of baked goods and preserves the longevity of the pan. Using a baking spray with flour is particularly effective for intricate designs and bundt pans to ensure every detail comes out perfectly.
What is the difference between a Black Forest cake and a black forest gateau?
The terms “Black Forest cake” and “Black Forest gateau” refer to the same dessert originating from Germany. Both feature layers of chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream, and cherries. “Gateau” is the French word for cake, used interchangeably in English-speaking countries to describe this classic dessert.
What is the significance of a Yule log cake?
A Yule log cake, or Buche de Noël, symbolises the ancient tradition of burning a Yule log during the winter solstice celebrations. In modern times, it represents warmth, renewal, and the festive spirit of Christmas. Its log shape and decoration with chocolate and cream mimic the log traditionally burned, bridging ancient customs with delicious holiday indulgence.
How do I clean my Nordic Ware?
Clean your Nordic Ware by hand washing with mild soap and warm water. Use a soft sponge or cloth to gently scrub, avoiding abrasive cleaners that could damage the finish. Dry thoroughly with a soft towel or let it air dry. Avoid dishwasher use to preserve the pan’s quality.
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Recipe
Black Forest Yule Log Cake
Ingredients
- 220 g butter
- 450 g golden caster sugar
- 4 medium eggs
- 330 g plain flour
- 60 g cocoa powder
- ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda
- salt
- 340 g cherry yoghurt
- 4 tablespoons cherry jam
- 8-10 glace cherries
- 60 g chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180 (150 fan)
- Grease the tin well. (For a bundt tin or the Nordic Ware Log tin I use melted butter and paint it on with a pastry brush and when that has cooled add a dusting of flour which helps to find any places on the tin I’ve missed to grease).
- Cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time and watch it get lighter.
- In a separate bowl measure out and sieve the flour, cocoa powder, bicarbonate of soda and salt.
- Add the yoghurt and jam/conserve to the butter/egg mix.
- Add the flour mix and chocolate chips and slowly stir in until all the flour has disappeared.
- If the jam you used is runny you might need to add a tablespoon extra of flour to stop the mix being too runny.
- Add the mixture to the tin and bake in the centre of the oven for about 1 hour 15 minutes (bundt), 1 hour 30 for the log or until a skewer comes out clean. When the cake pulls away from the edge of the tin the cake is ready. If the top of the cake starts to burn, cover the cake with aluminum foil.
- Allow the cake to cool in the tin before turning out.
- Enjoy! Serve with a drizzle of single cream.
Notes
Nutrition
Please note that the nutrition information provided above is approximate and meant as a guideline only.
Originally posted December 2014. Updated June 2024.
It looks amazing. I can’t believe it looks like the tin…. If I use pretty tins it still goes a bit wonkey and comes out messed up. Well done you!
Thank you so much. The Nordic Ware tins are brilliant for hold their designs. If you ever get a chance to get one it’s worth the money x
WOW! Such a wonderful cake, very impressive! Hope you have a lovely Christmas! 🙂 x
Thank you so much. Have a lovely Christmas too x