This Butterscotch Yule Log is a delightful twist on the classic holiday dessert. Featuring a soft sponge cake rolled up with a creamy butterscotch filling and topped with a rich butterscotch frosting, this festive treat is sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of flavors is sweet, buttery, and perfect for any holiday gathering.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Tips & Notes
• Variations
• FAQs
• Conclusion

Ingredients

Sponge Cake

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Butterscotch Filling

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

Butterscotch Frosting

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on high speed for 5-6 minutes, until thick and pale in color. Beat in the vanilla extract.
4. Gently fold the flour mixture into the egg mixture until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
6. While the cake is still warm, dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar. Carefully invert the cake onto the towel and peel off the parchment paper. Roll the cake up in the towel, starting from the short end. Let it cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Butterscotch Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool slightly, then beat in the powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Yule Log

1. Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread the butterscotch filling evenly over the surface.
2. Gently re-roll the cake without the towel, making sure to keep it tight but not too tight to avoid cracking.

Step 4: Make the Butterscotch Frosting

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring to a boil and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool slightly, then beat in the powdered sugar until smooth and thick.
3. Spread the frosting evenly over the rolled cake, creating a log shape. Use a fork to create bark-like lines for a festive touch.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with powdered sugar and holiday decorations, if desired.
2. Slice and serve this delicious butterscotch yule log to your guests.

Cooking Tips & Notes

• Rolling the Cake: Rolling the cake while it’s still warm helps prevent it from cracking. Be gentle when unrolling and re-rolling to maintain its shape.
• Butterscotch Temperature: Allow the butterscotch mixture to cool slightly before adding powdered sugar to avoid a runny consistency.
• Decorations: Dust the yule log with powdered sugar for a snowy effect or add sprigs of rosemary and cranberries for a festive touch.

Variations

• Chocolate Butterscotch: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the sponge cake for a chocolate twist.
• Nutty Butterscotch: Fold in chopped toasted pecans or walnuts into the filling for added texture.
• Salted Caramel: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the butterscotch filling for a salted caramel flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Yule Log Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the yule log a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, covered, and bring it to room temperature before serving.

2. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

3. Can I Freeze This Yule Log?

Yes, you can freeze the yule log. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

4. What Can I Use Instead of Brown Sugar?

You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or a mix of granulated sugar and a teaspoon of molasses.

This Butterscotch Yule Log is a festive and indulgent dessert that brings warmth and sweetness to any holiday celebration. The rich butterscotch flavor, combined with the soft sponge cake, makes for a perfect centerpiece dessert that will impress your guests. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a slice of holiday cheer!