Save to Pinterest A festive, savory cheese log shaped and decorated like a holiday yule log, perfect as an elegant centerpiece for your holiday table. Creamy, tangy cheeses blended with herbs and nuts are enrobed in a rich, textured coating, then festooned with edible foliage for a stunning presentation.
This cheese log always impresses guests with its unique presentation and rich flavor.
Ingredients
- Cheese Mixture: 300 g cream cheese softened, 150 g fresh goat cheese (chèvree) softened, 120 g sharp cheddar cheese finely grated, 2 tbsp unsalted butter softened, 2 tbsp sour cream, 2 tbsp fresh chives finely chopped, 1½ tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped, 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, 1 garlic clove minced, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, ½ tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp lemon zest, ½ tsp salt
- Coating & Decoration: 60 g walnuts or pecans finely chopped, 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped, 1 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves finely chopped, 1 tbsp pink peppercorns (optional), edible flowers small rosemary sprigs or fresh cranberries for garnish, crackers crostini or fresh vegetable sticks for serving
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl beat together cream cheese goat cheese cheddar butter and sour cream until smooth and fluffy.
- Step 2:
- Stir in chives parsley thyme garlic black pepper smoked paprika lemon zest and salt until fully incorporated.
- Step 3:
- Transfer the cheese mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Shape gently into a log about 25 cm (10 inches) long smoothing the sides to resemble a yule log.
- Step 4:
- Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.
- Step 5:
- On a clean surface combine chopped nuts parsley and rosemary. Unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it in the nut-herb mixture to coat all sides evenly.
- Step 6:
- Place the cheese log on a serving platter. Use a fork to create bark texture along the log. Garnish with pink peppercorns edible flowers rosemary sprigs and cranberries to resemble winter foliage.
- Step 7:
- Serve with crackers crostini or vegetable sticks.
Save to Pinterest This recipe brings our family together every holiday season for a memorable evening.
Notes
For a smoky flavor add a few drops of liquid smoke to the cheese mixture. Swap nuts for toasted pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version. This can be made up to 2 days ahead garnish just before serving. Wine pairing Try with a dry sparkling wine or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl Electric mixer or sturdy spatula Plastic wrap Chefs knife Cutting board Serving platter Fork (for texture)
Allergen Information
Contains milk dairy and nuts. If serving with crackers check for gluten. For nut allergies substitute nuts with seeds or omit entirely. Always double-check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Save to Pinterest This cheese log makes a stunning and delicious centerpiece sure to impress your guests.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What cheeses are used in the log?
The log features cream cheese, fresh goat cheese (chèvre), and sharp cheddar combined for a creamy, tangy flavor.
- → How is the nut coating prepared?
Chopped walnuts or pecans are mixed with fresh parsley and rosemary, then rolled onto the chilled cheese log to create a textured coating.
- → Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, the cheese log can be prepared up to two days in advance; garnish just before serving to keep decorations fresh.
- → Are there any allergy considerations?
This dish contains dairy and nuts; nuts can be substituted with toasted pumpkin seeds for nut allergies, and gluten-free crackers can be served alongside.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Serve sliced with crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetable sticks for an elegant appetizer option.
- → Is there an option for a smoky flavor?
A few drops of liquid smoke can be added to the cheese mixture for a subtle smoky taste without overpowering the herbs.