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.
Yuletide Log Cheese Centerpiece is a holiday favorite that brings festive charm and delicious flavor to any gathering.
Ingredients
- Cheese Mixture: 300 g cream cheese softened, 150 g fresh goat cheese (chčvre) 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 created many warm family moments around the holiday table, bringing everyone together to enjoy its festive charm.
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 With its creamy texture and festive appearance, this yuletide cheese log is sure to impress and delight your guests.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you achieve the bark texture on the log?
Use a fork to gently press lines along the shaped cheese log, mimicking the rough bark of a yule log before coating it with nuts and herbs.
- → Can I prepare the log ahead of time?
Yes, the log can be made up to two days in advance. Keep it tightly wrapped and refrigerated, then add garnishes just before serving.
- → What are some suitable garnishes?
Fresh rosemary sprigs, edible flowers, pink peppercorns, and fresh cranberries provide a festive, natural look.
- → Is there a way to make this nut-free?
Substitute chopped nuts with toasted pumpkin seeds or omit them entirely to accommodate nut allergies.
- → What drinks pair well with this dish?
Dry sparkling wines or crisp Sauvignon Blanc complement the creamy and herbaceous flavors beautifully.
- → Can I add smoky flavor to the log?
Yes, a few drops of liquid smoke can be mixed into the cheese blend for a subtle smoky note.