Yuletide Log Cheese Centerpiece

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 beloved tradition at our holiday gatherings, impressing guests with its beautiful look and delicious taste.

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.

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This cheese log has brought our family closer during holiday celebrations with its festive charm and wonderful flavors.

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.

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This cheese log is the perfect elegant addition to any holiday gathering promising delicious flavor and stunning presentation.

Recipe FAQ Section

→ What cheeses are used in the yuletide log?

A combination of cream cheese, fresh goat cheese (chèvre), and sharp cheddar provides a creamy and tangy base.

→ How is the herb coating prepared?

Chopped walnuts or pecans are mixed with fresh parsley and rosemary, and optionally pink peppercorns, then rolled over the chilled cheese log.

→ Can the log be prepared in advance?

Yes, it can be made up to two days ahead and stored refrigerated. Garnish just before serving for best appearance.

→ Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?

The cheese log itself is gluten-free; just serve with gluten-free crackers or fresh vegetables.

→ What are some suggested accompaniments?

Serve with crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetable sticks to complement the flavors and textures.