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 recipe has been a hit at every holiday gathering I've hosted, earning compliments for both flavor and presentation.
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, 1½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1½ tsp smoked paprika, 1½ tsp lemon zest, 1½ 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 Itʼs always a joy to see family gather around this cheese centerpiece, sharing stories and laughter during the holidays.
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).
Nutritional Information
Calories: 230, Total Fat: 19 g, Carbohydrates: 3 g, Protein: 8 g per serving without accompaniments.
Save This yuletide cheese log makes a stunning and delicious holiday centerpiece sure to impress your guests.
Recipe FAQ
- → What cheeses are used in the yuletide log?
A mix of cream cheese, fresh goat cheese (chèvre), and sharp cheddar creates a creamy, tangy flavor base.
- → How is the nut coating prepared?
Chopped walnuts or pecans are combined with fresh parsley and rosemary, then used to coat the chilled cheese log for texture and flavor.
- → Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, the log can be prepared up to two days in advance and garnished just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What garnishes enhance the presentation?
Pink peppercorns, edible flowers, rosemary sprigs, and fresh cranberries create a festive, natural look resembling winter foliage.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, when served with gluten-free crackers or vegetables, it fits gluten-free preferences.
- → How can the flavor be smoked?
A few drops of liquid smoke added to the cheese mixture impart a subtle smoky note.