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 festive cheese log always impresses my guests and makes our holiday table feel extra special.
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 centerpiece always brings my family together to enjoy the festive season.
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 yule log cheese centerpiece adds festive charm and delightful flavor to any holiday gathering.
Recipe Questions
- → What cheeses are used in the yuletide log?
The log combines cream cheese, fresh goat cheese (chèvre), and sharp cheddar, creating a creamy, tangy base.
- → How is the bark texture on the log achieved?
After chilling, the log is rolled in a chopped walnuts and herb mixture and textured with a fork to mimic tree bark.
- → Can the log be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made up to two days in advance and garnished just before serving for best presentation.
- → What garnishes are used for decoration?
Pink peppercorns, edible flowers, rosemary sprigs, and fresh cranberries provide a festive, natural decoration.
- → Is there a way to add smoky flavor?
A few drops of liquid smoke can be added to the cheese mixture for a subtle smoky note.
- → Are there allergen considerations?
This dish contains dairy and nuts; nut alternatives or omissions can be made for allergies.