Freezing Yule Log And Icing

Asked by Jenris. Answered on 12th November 2020

Full question

I see that I can freeze the Yule Log for up to three months - that suits my schedule perfectly! I am assuming I should freeze it before it is iced, but do you think I could roll the log using the buttercream on the inside, than finish off with the outside icing once it is thawed?

Yule Log

By Nigella

Our answer

Nigella's Yule Log (from NIGELLA CHRISTMAS) is a Swiss roll (jelly roll) of chocolate sponge and chocolate buttercream. It can be made ahead and is also gluten-free. It is possible to make and ice the roll, then put the fully made roll in a large, rigid container and freeze it for up to 3 months or open freeze the log then wrap it and freeze it for up to 3 months.

However, we appreciate that this can take up a lot of room in the freezer, because of the shape of the log and particularly if you use a large container. If space is an issue then we suggest making the sponge and icing, then filling and rolling up the sponge (to the end of step 9). Immediately wrap the roll tightly in a double layer of food wrap and a layer of foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. It may help to put the rolled sponge on a baking sheet until it is solid. Freeze the remaining icing in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw the roll and icing overnight in a cool place then unwrap the roll, cut it and assemble the Yule Log as directed. You may need to beat the defrosted icing briefly before using it, to make it more easy to spread.