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 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.
Save 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.
Save 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.