Yule Log

Prep: 30 min Cuisine: American

A delightful no-bake dessert resembling a festive log, featuring a crunchy vanilla wafer shell filled with candied fruit and nuts. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it offers a sweet, fruity, and nutty flavor combination that appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a charming centerpiece for celebrations.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb vanilla wafers
  • 1 jar mixed candied fruit
  • 2 cups nuts
  • 1 can Eagle Brand milk

Instructions

  1. Line a work surface with wax paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the vanilla wafers, mixed candied fruit (or cherries and pineapple if preferred), and nuts.
  3. Add the can of Eagle Brand milk and mix thoroughly until ingredients are well coated and cohesive.
  4. Shape the mixture into a log-like shape on the prepared wax paper.
  5. Roll the log in extra vanilla wafers to coat the outside evenly.
  6. Wrap the log in wax paper and refrigerate for several hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Substitutions

For a twist, substitute the mixed candied fruit with dried fruits like raisins or apricots for a different flavor profile. You can also use different nuts, such as almonds or pecans, based on your preference. Ensure your mixture is well-coated with the Eagle Brand milk, as this helps the log hold its shape. If you want a richer taste, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the Yule Log into rounds and serve on a festive platter. It pairs beautifully with coffee or spiced tea, making it a perfect dessert for holiday gatherings. Consider serving alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. This dessert also complements other holiday treats like Missouri No Bake Cookies.

Storage & Reheating

Wrap any leftover Yule Log tightly in wax paper and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to a month. To serve, simply remove it from the fridge or freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Yule Log contains roughly 1367 calories, with 19g protein, 198g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (52% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 659mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).

1367 kcal 68% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 19.3g 39% DV
Total Fat 58.5g 75% DV
Carbs 198.4g 72% DV
Fiber 2.1g 7% DV
Sugar 78.8g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 658.5mg 29% DV
Potassium 1146.3mg 24% DV
Cholesterol 50.6mg 17% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 198.4mcg 22% DV
Vitamin C 15.4mg 17% DV
Vitamin D 1.7mcg 9% DV
Calcium 500.8mg 39% DV
Iron 9.4mg 52% DV
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sugar-free ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, you can use sugar-free vanilla wafers and sugar-free Eagle Brand milk to make a lower-sugar version of the Yule Log. Just be aware that the texture and flavor may slightly differ, but it can still be delicious.

How can I decorate the Yule Log for the holidays?

You can dust the log with powdered sugar for a snowy effect or drizzle melted chocolate on top for a rich finish. Adding festive sprinkles or edible glitter can also enhance the holiday spirit. Consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this Yule Log recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients aside from the milk. It's a delightful dessert option for vegetarians during the holiday season.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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