Creating your own Gourmet Tiramisu Yule Log Cake can be straightforward if you follow these easy steps:

1. Prepare the Baking Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Grease the parchment paper lightly.
2. Make the Sponge Cake: In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until pale and fluffy, almost tripling in volume. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold this dry mixture into the egg mixture in thirds to avoid deflating the batter.
4. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until it springs back when lightly touched.
5. Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven. Let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then invert it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Remove the parchment paper and roll the cake up with the towel, starting from a short end. Allow it to cool completely in this rolled position.
6. Make the Coffee Syrup: In a small bowl, combine the brewed coffee and coffee liqueur (if using). Stir well and set aside.
7. Prepare the Mascarpone Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until thick and fluffy, usually about 3-4 minutes.
8. Unroll and Soak the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, unroll it gently. Brush the coffee syrup evenly over the surface, allowing the cake to absorb the flavors.
9. Spread the Filling: Spread half of the mascarpone filling over the soaked cake, leaving a small border around the edges.
10. Roll the Cake Again: Starting from the short end, carefully roll the cake back up without the towel. Place the seam side down on a serving platter.
11. Frost the Outside: Use the remaining mascarpone filling to frost the outside of the rolled cake evenly.
12. Decorate: Dust the top with cocoa powder and add dark chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.

Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll find that the process is as rewarding as it is delicious!