Save 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 has become the star of my holiday parties, always impressing guests with its look and flavor.
Ingredients
- Cheese Mixture: 300 g cream cheese, softened, 150 g fresh goat cheese (chèvre) 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 Our family gathers every holiday around this cheese log, sharing stories and laughter as it disappears bite by bite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled with an assortment of gluten-free crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer.
Storage Tips
Keep the cheese log tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Add garnishes just before serving for freshness.
Wine Pairing
Pairs beautifully with dry sparkling wine or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc to complement the tangy cheese flavors.
Save This yuletide cheese log is sure to be a memorable centerpiece that delights both eyes and taste buds.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What cheeses are used in the cheese log?
The cheese log combines cream cheese, fresh goat cheese (chèvre), and sharp cheddar for a rich and tangy flavor.
- → How is the log shaped and decorated?
The cheese mixture is formed into a log, chilled until firm, then rolled in a mixture of chopped nuts and herbs. The surface is textured to mimic bark and garnished with edible foliage and peppercorns.
- → Can this be prepared in advance?
Yes, the log can be made up to two days ahead. Garnish just before serving for best presentation.
- → What are some suitable accompaniments?
Serve with crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetable sticks to complement the creamy, savory flavors.
- → Is there a nut-free option?
Yes, substitute chopped nuts with toasted pumpkin seeds or omit entirely for nut allergies.
- → What wines pair well with this centerpiece?
Try a dry sparkling wine or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc to balance the richness of the cheese log.