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 the highlight of our holiday gatherings, impressing guests with both its flavor and appearance.
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 We fondly recall preparing this cheese log together as a family tradition, making the holidays even more special.
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. 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.
Pin It 
This yuletide cheese log is the perfect blend of festive presentation and delicious flavor that will impress your guests every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cheeses are used in the centerpiece?
The blend includes cream cheese, fresh goat cheese (chèvre), and sharp cheddar cheese for a balanced creamy and tangy flavor.
- → How is the herb and nut coating prepared?
Chopped walnuts or pecans are mixed with fresh parsley and rosemary, then rolled onto the chilled cheese log for texture and flavor.
- → Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, the cheese log can be assembled up to two days in advance and garnished just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Serving with crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetable sticks complements the flavors and adds textural contrast.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, it is vegetarian and can also be gluten-free if paired with gluten-free accompaniments.
- → How can I add a smoky flavor?
Add a few drops of liquid smoke to the cheese mixture before shaping for a subtle smoky note.