YULE LOG CHEESECAKES

Every holiday season, I find myself craving something cozy, chocolatey, and just a little magical, and that’s exactly how these YULE LOG CHEESECAKES came to be. They capture the festive charm of a classic yule log but in a perfectly portioned, creamy cheesecake form that feels special without being overwhelming. This is the kind of dessert that instantly makes a table feel celebratory, and the best part is that you get all that wow factor with a recipe that’s completely doable at home.

Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

There’s something incredibly comforting about rich chocolate paired with smooth, tangy cheesecake, and this recipe delivers that combination in every single bite. Trust me, you’re going to love this, especially when you see how beautifully these mini yule log cheesecakes turn out. This one’s a total game-changer for holiday desserts because it looks elegant, tastes indulgent, and still feels approachable enough to make without stress.

Behind the Recipe

The inspiration for these came from a winter afternoon filled with twinkling lights, cocoa simmering on the stove, and a deep love for traditional holiday desserts. I wanted something that felt nostalgic yet playful, a dessert that nods to the classic yule log while adding the creamy comfort of cheesecake. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite, especially when shared with people you love during the coziest time of year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together like a warm holiday hug, each one playing a role in creating that rich, creamy, chocolate-forward experience.

1. Chocolate Cookie Crumbs: 1 1/2 cups finely crushed, they create a sturdy, cocoa-rich base that mimics the sponge of a traditional yule log.
2. Unsalted Butter: 6 tablespoons melted, binds the crumbs together and adds a buttery depth.
3. Cream Cheese: 16 ounces softened, the heart of the cheesecake that gives it its signature smooth and tangy texture.
4. Granulated Sugar: 3/4 cup, balances the tang of the cream cheese and enhances the chocolate flavors.
5. Sour Cream: 1/2 cup, adds creaminess and a subtle tang that keeps the filling from feeling heavy.
6. Eggs: 2 large, provide structure and a silky finish to the cheesecake.
7. Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons, rounds out the flavors with gentle warmth.
8. Cocoa Powder: 1/4 cup unsweetened, deepens the chocolate flavor in the filling.
9. Heavy Cream: 1 cup, used for whipping into a light, snowy topping.
10. Powdered Sugar: 2 tablespoons, lightly sweetens the whipped cream without overpowering it.

Time Needed to Make This Recipe

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour plus chilling time

Special Equipment You’ll Need

These tools help shape and finish the cheesecakes so they look as good as they taste.

Mini Loaf Pan or Rectangular Molds: Gives the cheesecakes their signature yule log shape.
Electric Mixer: Ensures the cheesecake batter turns out smooth and lump-free.
Mixing Bowls: Needed for both the crust and the filling.
Piping Bag: Helps create a beautiful whipped cream topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Take a breath and enjoy the process, this recipe is all about layering flavors and having a little fun.

1. Prepare the crust: Mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until evenly coated, then press firmly into the bottom of your molds to create a compact base.
2. Mix the filling: Beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy, scraping down the bowl as needed.
3. Add richness: Blend in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder until the mixture looks glossy and evenly colored.
4. Incorporate the eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently just until combined to keep the texture silky.
5. Fill the molds: Spoon the batter over the crusts, smoothing the tops for an even finish.
6. Bake gently: Bake until the centers are just set and slightly jiggly, which ensures a creamy interior.
7. Cool and chill: Let the cheesecakes cool completely, then refrigerate until fully chilled and firm.
8. Whip the topping: Beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form, light and cloud-like.
9. Decorate: Pipe the whipped cream on top and dust lightly with cocoa powder or powdered sugar for a snowy effect.

Serving Suggestions & Presentation Tips

Serve these YULE LOG CHEESECAKES on a simple white plate dusted with powdered sugar to mimic fresh snow. The deep brown chocolate contrasts beautifully with the creamy white topping, making each piece look like a miniature winter log. Pair them with hot cocoa, spiced tea, or a warm cup of coffee for a truly cozy dessert moment.

Extra Tips for Best Results

A few thoughtful touches make all the difference here.

• Use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the batter.
• Do not overmix after adding the eggs, this keeps the cheesecake creamy rather than dense.
• Chill the cheesecakes fully before decorating so the whipped cream holds its shape.
• Lightly dust toppings just before serving for the freshest look.

Variations You Can Try

For a peppermint twist, add 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract to the filling for a festive holiday flavor.
To create a mocha version, dissolve 1 teaspoon instant coffee in the vanilla extract before adding it to the batter.
For a lighter option, use a vanilla cookie crust instead of chocolate for a softer contrast.
If you love texture, sprinkle finely chopped nuts over the whipped cream for a gentle crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

These cheesecakes are perfect for making ahead, which is a lifesaver during busy holidays. You can prepare and chill them up to two days in advance, storing them covered in the refrigerator. They also freeze beautifully without the whipped topping, just wrap them well and thaw overnight in the fridge before decorating and serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 420
Note: These are approximate values.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make these cheesecakes without mini loaf pans?

Yes, you can use small rectangular silicone molds or even a standard muffin pan, though the shape will be different.

2. Do these taste more like cheesecake or cake?

They are firmly cheesecake in texture, creamy and rich, with the chocolate flavor giving a nod to classic yule log cake.

3. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best texture, but low-fat can work with slightly less creaminess.

4. How do I know when they’re done baking?

The centers should be just set with a slight jiggle, which firms up as they cool.

5. Can I skip the cocoa powder in the filling?

You can, but the chocolate flavor will be much lighter and less reminiscent of a yule log.

6. How long do they need to chill?

At least 4 hours, though overnight chilling gives the best texture.

7. Can I decorate them differently?

Absolutely, shaved chocolate, cookie crumbs, or a light cocoa dust all work beautifully.

8. Are these good for a holiday party?

They’re perfect, individually portioned, festive, and easy to serve.

9. Can kids help make this recipe?

Yes, especially with mixing the crust and decorating the tops.

10. Do they freeze well?

They freeze very well without the whipped topping, making them great for advance prep.

Conclusion

These YULE LOG CHEESECAKES bring together holiday charm, rich chocolate flavor, and creamy comfort in the most delightful way. If you’re looking for a dessert that feels special but still approachable, this is it, and I truly can’t wait for you to try it and make it part of your own holiday traditions.

Print