Name: Gluten‑Free Yule Log Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: French‑inspired
Ingredients: ¾ cup gluten‑free flour blend (or almond flour); 4 large eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan option); ½ cup sugar (or coconut sugar); ¼ cup cocoa powder (or carob powder); 1 tsp baking powder (or ½ tsp baking soda + vinegar); 1 tsp vanilla extract (or almond extract); ¼ tsp salt (optional if using salted butter)

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Gluten-free Yule log cake is a festive dessert that brings holiday joy without the wheat. Inspired by the classic French Bûche de Noël, it swaps traditional flour for almond or gluten-free blends, keeping all the flavor and charm. I first discovered it when I had to adapt my Christmas menu for a gluten-sensitive friend. After a few trials (and one very cracked roll), I finally got it right—and it’s been a December favorite ever since.

This article keeps things simple: we’ll walk through its history, ingredients, cooking steps, serving ideas, health benefits, and FAQs. No matter your skill level or who you’re baking for, this guide will help you create a gluten-free Yule log cake that’s both effortless and unforgettable.

Table of Contents

2. Ingredients of Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake

To make a perfect gluten-free Yule log cake, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that keep the texture light and the flavor rich. Here’s a quick list:

Ingredient	Quantity	Substitute
Gluten-free flour blend	¾ cup	Almond flour
Eggs	4 large	Flax eggs (vegan option)
Sugar	½ cup	Coconut sugar
Cocoa powder (unsweetened)	¼ cup	Carob powder
Baking powder	1 tsp	½ tsp baking soda + vinegar
Vanilla extract	1 tsp	Almond extract
Salt	¼ tsp	Skip if using salted butter

If you’re avoiding eggs or dairy, you can easily swap in plant-based alternatives. Our gluten-free vegan Yule log recipe provides a fully vegan version with all the same festive flavor.

Ingredients for gluten-free Yule log cake arranged on a kitchen counter — Essential ingredients for a gluten-free Yule log cake

These ingredients give the gluten-free Yule log cake its signature texture—light, flexible, and easy to roll. Feel free to adjust based on your dietary needs or pantry staples.

3. Instructions on How to Cook Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake

Making a gluten-free Yule log cake is easier than it looks. Just follow these steps:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy, then mix in vanilla, cocoa powder, and gluten-free flour.
Step 3: Pour the batter into the pan, spread evenly, and bake for 10–12 minutes.
Step 4: While warm, roll the cake with the parchment and let it cool. Unroll, spread filling, then re-roll gently.

If you prefer a no-crack roll and dairy-free filling, follow the techniques in our gluten-free vegan Yule log, which uses coconut cream and flax eggs for a smooth, flexible sponge.

Step-by-step preparation of gluten-free Yule log cake — Preparing the gluten-free Yule log cake step by step

Pro Tip: Use a clean kitchen towel dusted with cocoa to help prevent sticking and cracking.

4. How to Serve Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake

A gluten-free Yule log cake can be served simply or dressed up for special occasions. For a classic look, dust with powdered sugar to mimic snow or top with chocolate ganache for extra richness.

Serving suggestions:

Pair with fresh berries or mint leaves for color.
Serve with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or a warm cup of coffee.
Add a swirl of whipped cream or a drizzle of raspberry sauce for contrast.

This gluten-free Yule log cake is perfect for holiday tables or cozy nights in.

Serve your gluten-free Yule log cake with fresh berries or alongside a batch of gluten-free strawberry muffins for a bright and fruity dessert spread.

5. General Benefits of this Cake

The gluten-free Yule log cake isn’t just festive—it also offers some surprising health perks. Thanks to its alternative ingredients, it’s lighter and easier to digest for many people.

Almond flour adds healthy fats and vitamin E.
Cocoa powder provides antioxidants that support heart health.
Reduced gluten exposure may help with digestion and inflammation.

Enjoying a gluten-free Yule log cake means treating yourself without the heaviness of traditional desserts.

Gluten-free Yule log cake with festive toppings on a wooden table — A festive gluten-free Yule log cake ready to serve

Just like our rich gluten-free Dubai chocolate brownies, this cake offers deep chocolate flavor with gluten-free goodness.

6. FAQs About Gluten-Free Yule Log Cake

Q1: Can I make gluten-free Yule log cake in advance?
Yes, prepare it a day ahead and store in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 3 days.

Q2: What’s a good flour substitute?
You can use almond flour or a 1-to-1 gluten-free blend.

Q3: Can it be made vegan?
Absolutely—swap eggs for flax eggs and use dairy-free cream for the filling.

The gluten-free Yule log cake is flexible, easy to customize, and perfect for various dietary needs. If you’re looking for a fully plant-based version, check out our detailed guide to the gluten-free vegan Yule log for egg- and dairy-free alternatives.

Conclusion

The gluten-free Yule log cake is more than a holiday dessert—it’s a delicious blend of tradition, taste, and health. From its rich history and simple ingredients to the easy steps and festive serving ideas, this cake proves you don’t need gluten to impress. Try it this season and enjoy a treat that’s both joyful and gluten-free.

If you enjoy this recipe, you’ll love our collection of gluten-free and dairy-free desserts—perfect for every season.

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