Yule Logs

As Yule approaches, I thought I would share some history on Yule Logs. The origin of the Yule Log has been attributed to Germanic and Scandinavian paganism due to references appearing during the 17th century in German texts. These texts were around before Christianity arrived in Europe. Early Christianity adopted the tradition to symbolize the birth of Jesus and/or Jesus’s triumph over sin. The log was originally burnt in fireplaces during an early Winter Solstice ritual for fortune and luck. Today it is used by both christians and pagans alike!

Around the 19th Centruy in France, the people of that time transformed the tradition to an edible cake. This Yule Log cake was made of a soft yellow sponge cake and decorated with chocolate buttercream in a spiral fashion to resemble the traditional Yule Log. This new variation spread to other nationalities and is the preferred way to celebrate this tradition, especially since some people do not have fireplaces!

There are many ways to celebrate with a Yule Log this year. With technology, you do not need to purchase or decorate your own. You can simply google Yule Logs and enjoy an alternative digital version that is recorded with Christmas music playing in the background. I hope you have a great Yule. If you want to make your own, please join us on the 21st.