A traditionally prepared Bûche de Noël cake has been baked, decorated and is ready for the gathering of people to enjoy it. Did you know? Bûche de Noël is a traditional Christmas sponge cake made to resemble a minature Yule log. This specially selected log is burnt on a hearth as a winter tradition in different regions of Europe. The most common combination to create the traditional Yule log cake is a yellow sponge cake and chocolate buttercream texturized with a fork to give it its log-like appearance- although there are many other variations including, chocolate cake and flavored icing. Bûche de Noël is believed to have emerged in France in the 19th century before spreading to other countries.

Gourmet Cover by Artist Henry Stahlhut, originally published on December 1st, 1950