Yuletide Log Cheese Centerpiece (Print Version)

Savory holiday centerpiece combining creamy cheeses, fresh herbs, nuts, and festive garnishes for elegant appeal.

# Ingredient List:

→ Cheese Mixture

01 - 10.5 oz cream cheese, softened
02 - 5.3 oz fresh goat cheese (chèvre), softened
03 - 4.25 oz sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated
04 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
05 - 2 tbsp sour cream
06 - 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
07 - 1.5 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
08 - 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
09 - 1 garlic clove, minced
10 - 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper
11 - 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
12 - 0.5 tsp lemon zest
13 - 0.5 tsp salt

→ Coating & Decoration

14 - 2 oz walnuts or pecans, finely chopped
15 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
16 - 1 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves, finely chopped
17 - 1 tbsp pink peppercorns (optional)
18 - Edible flowers, small rosemary sprigs, or fresh cranberries for garnish
19 - Crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetable sticks for serving

# Recipe Steps:

01 - In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese, goat cheese, cheddar, butter, and sour cream until smooth and fluffy.
02 - Stir in chives, parsley, thyme, garlic, black pepper, smoked paprika, lemon zest, and salt until evenly combined.
03 - Transfer the mixture onto plastic wrap and shape gently into a 10-inch log, smoothing sides to resemble a yule log.
04 - Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
05 - On a clean surface, combine chopped nuts, parsley, and rosemary. Unwrap chilled log and roll it evenly in the nut-herb mixture.
06 - Place log on a serving platter. Use a fork to create bark-like texture, then adorn with pink peppercorns, edible flowers, rosemary sprigs, and cranberries for a festive appearance.
07 - Accompany with crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetable sticks for serving.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Elegant centerpiece for holiday tables
  • Creamy tangy cheeses blended with herbs and nuts
02 -
  • Can add liquid smoke for a smoky flavor
  • Swap nuts for toasted pumpkin seeds for nut-free option
03 -
  • Chill cheese log thoroughly before coating to ensure firm texture
  • Use fresh herbs and edible flowers for best presentation
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