These Mini Yule Log Shots are a fun and festive twist on the classic holiday dessert, the Yule Log (Bûche de Noël). Instead of a large rolled cake, these bite-sized dessert shots capture the same rich flavors—layers of chocolate sponge, creamy filling, and ganache—served beautifully in shot glasses. They’re elegant, easy to serve, and perfect for parties when you want all the decadence of a holiday dessert in a small, irresistible portion.
2. Ingredients
For the chocolate cake layer:
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½ cup all-purpose flour
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¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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½ teaspoon baking powder
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¼ teaspoon salt
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3 large eggs
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½ cup granulated sugar
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 tablespoons milk
For the cream filling:
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½ cup heavy cream
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3 tablespoons powdered sugar
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the chocolate ganache:
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½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
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¼ cup heavy cream
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1 teaspoon butter (optional for shine)
For garnish:
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Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder
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Mini meringues, berries, or festive sprinkles
3. Instructions
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Make the chocolate sponge:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet or jelly roll pan (about 10×15 inches) with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar with an electric mixer for about 3–4 minutes until thick and pale. Add vegetable oil, vanilla, and milk, mixing just until combined.
Fold in the dry ingredients gently until smooth. Spread the batter evenly in the pan and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cake springs back when touched.
Once baked, let the cake cool completely, then crumble it into fine pieces with your hands or a fork. -
Prepare the cream filling:
In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form. Keep it refrigerated until ready to use. -
Make the ganache:
Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan or microwave until hot but not boiling. Pour it over the chocolate chips, let sit for 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Add butter for a glossy finish if desired. Let the ganache cool slightly—it should be thick but pourable. -
Assemble the dessert shots:
In small clear shot glasses or mini dessert cups, add a spoonful of crumbled chocolate cake as the first layer. Press gently with the back of a spoon. Add a layer of whipped cream, then drizzle a bit of ganache over it. Repeat the layers until the glasses are full—typically two layers of each looks best. -
Add the finishing touches:
Top with a small dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of ganache, and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or festive decorations. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving so the flavors can meld.
4. Cooking Time
Total: 45 minutes
Prep: 20 minutes
Bake: 12 minutes
Assemble: 10–15 minutes
5. Serving
Makes 8–10 dessert shots
6. Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 230 kcal
Protein: 3 g
Fat: 14 g
Carbohydrates: 23 g
Sugar: 17 g
7. Tips
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Use store-bought cake: For a quicker version, crumble a store-bought chocolate sponge or Swiss roll instead of baking from scratch.
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Flavor twist: Add a splash of coffee or hazelnut liqueur to the ganache for a deeper flavor.
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Keep it neat: Use a piping bag for the cream and ganache layers for clean, professional-looking results.
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Add crunch: Layer crushed cookies, nuts, or chocolate pearls between layers for texture.
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Make ahead: These can be prepared a day in advance—just keep them chilled and covered until ready to serve.
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Holiday touch: Garnish with tiny candy canes, edible glitter, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy look.
8. Final Thought
These Mini Yule Log Shots take everything people love about the traditional Yule Log—rich chocolate, silky cream, and festive flair—and transform it into an elegant, no-fuss dessert. They’re small but packed with big holiday flavor, making them ideal for parties, dessert tables, or as a sweet ending to a Christmas dinner. Easy to make, easy to serve, and guaranteed to impress.
