The Yule log, or Buche de Noel in French, is a traditional Christmas cake of rolled sponge cake filled with whipped cream or buttercream and topped with chocolate ganache. In this easy Summer Yule log recipe, we’re using Swiss rolls and chocolate frosting for a delicious no bake dessert. You’ll love this edible holiday craft for kids or grandkids that’s even easier than a gingerbread house! 

This Yule log recipe is perfect for warmer climates, because you don’t need an oven to make it! Hence, I’m calling it the Summer Yule log (though you of course can enjoy it whenever you wish). 

🪵 How to Make a Summer Yule Log 

Here are the ingredients you need for this Yule log recipe: 

• Swiss rolls (Hostess Ho Hos, Drake’s Yodels, Little Debbie Swiss Cake Rolls, or similar snack cakes) 
• Chocolate frosting (room temperature for easier spreading) 
• Yule log decorations (fresh rosemary sprigs, Christmas sprinkles, powdered sugar, etc.) 

Get more Yule log decorating ideas in the next section! 

Here are the simple step-by-step directions with photos for how to make a Yule log: 

1. Using a sharp knife, cut a thin slice off each end of two Swiss rolls. Cut one of the Swiss rolls in half on the diagonal. (An adult may want to do this step.) 

2. How to shape a Yule log: Attach the three pieces of Swiss roll together with frosting as shown. Use one of the diagonal pieces to extend the length of the log, while the other piece makes a side branch. 

3. Using a butter knife, frost the outside edges of the Swiss rolls, leaving the rolled ends unfrosted. Spread the frosting to resemble the rough ridges of bark. (Use a fork to help frost the log if you don’t like your results with a butterknife.) 

4. Now for the fun part! Decorate your Summer Yule log however you would like. I used fresh herbs, candy, and a sprinkle of sugar snow.

I recommend having kids do this activity on a placemat, cutting board, or piece of wax paper for easier clean up. 

Air fryer tip! If your frosting is too cold to spread, put a dollop in an oven safe tin, cover with foil and air fry at 400F (200C) for 1 minute. Stir, and then air fry longer if needed until softened. You can also use a microwave to make frosting spreadable (use a microwave-safe container and no foil). 

FAQs 

What is the difference between a Yule log and a Swiss roll? 

The main difference between a Yule log and Swiss roll is a Yule log is decorated to look like a log, and a Swiss roll is not. Both a Yule log and a Swiss roll are sponge cakes that are rolled around a filling like whipped cream. 

What is the tradition of a Yule log? 

Yule log history dates back to medieval times, symbolizing the warmth of the hearth and return of the sun during the pagan winter solstice celebrations (source). Over time, the Yule log meaning broadened, and the Yule log cake became a much-loved Christmas tradition in many households (source). 

What day do you burn the Yule log? 

The Yule log is traditionally burned on Christmas Eve for good luck and to symbolize the continuity of the light through the darkest days of winter. This giant log would feed the fire through the 12 days of Christmas (source). 

🎅 More Christmas Recipes 

Here are some more holiday recipes you may enjoy: 

• Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Ice Cream 
• Air Fryer Rack of Lamb 
• Ham Roast 
• Ham Shank Recipe 
• Rump Roast in Oven 

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