Pin It 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 a holiday tradition in my family, impressing guests with its beautiful appearance and delicious flavor combination.
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.
Pin It This recipe always brings my family together, with everyone eagerly anticipating the moment to slice into this beautiful cheese log at holiday gatherings.
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. 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.
Pin It This yuletide cheese log is the perfect blend of flavor and festivity, sure to delight your guests at any holiday occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cheeses are used in this centerpiece?
Cream cheese, fresh goat cheese (chèvre), and sharp cheddar provide a creamy, tangy, and sharp flavor profile.
- → How is the nut and herb coating prepared?
Chopped walnuts or pecans are combined with fresh parsley and rosemary, then the chilled log is rolled in this mixture for a textured, flavorful crust.
- → Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, it can be shaped and chilled up to two days in advance. Garnish just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Serve sliced with crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetable sticks to complement the savory flavors.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, if paired with gluten-free crackers or vegetables, the dish is gluten-free friendly.