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 always wows my guests with its beautiful presentation and delicious flavors.
Ingredients
- Cheese Mixture: 300 g cream cheese softened, 150 g fresh goat cheese (chèvreet) 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 Our family loves gathering around this cheese log, sharing stories and enjoying the festive flavors together.
Notes
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 
A stunning centerpiece that brings flavor and festivity to your holiday table.
Recipe Q&A
- → What cheeses are used in the yuletide log?
The log combines cream cheese, fresh goat cheese (chèvre), and sharp cheddar for a creamy yet tangy profile.
- → How is the texture of the cheese log’s coating achieved?
After chilling, the log is rolled in a mixture of chopped walnuts or pecans, fresh parsley, and rosemary, creating a nutty, herbaceous bark-like texture.
- → Can this centerpiece accommodate dietary restrictions?
It's vegetarian and can be gluten-free if served with gluten-free crackers or fresh vegetables.
- → How long should the cheese mixture chill before serving?
Refrigerate the shaped log for at least one hour to firm up and allow flavors to meld.
- → What garnishes enhance the festive look?
Edible flowers, fresh rosemary sprigs, pink peppercorns, and cranberries add seasonal charm and color.
- → Are there recommended pairings with this dish?
Try serving it alongside a dry sparkling wine or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc for balanced flavors.