What You’ll Need: The Ingredients
For the Cheese Log:
- Cream Cheese: 16 ounces (2 blocks), softened to room temperature
- Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced (fresh is best!)
- Fresh Herbs: 1/4 cup combined, finely chopped (I like a mix of parsley, chives, rosemary, and thyme)
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 teaspoon (adds a lovely depth of flavor)
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (for added texture and flavor)
For Coating the Log:
- Fresh Herbs: 1/4 cup combined, finely chopped (same herbs as above, or a slightly different mix)
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: 2 tablespoons (for a savory crunch)
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon (for color and a hint of smokiness)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Magic Happen
Getting Started: Preparing the Cheese Mixture
- Soften the Cream Cheese: This is crucial! Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature. This will make it much easier to mix and prevent lumps. If you’re short on time, you can microwave it in 15-second intervals, but be careful not to melt it.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Mix Well: Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon to thoroughly combine all the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you’re using nuts, gently fold them in at this stage.
Shaping the Log: From Mixture to Masterpiece
- Prepare the Plastic Wrap: Lay out a large sheet of plastic wrap on a clean surface.
- Spoon the Cheese Mixture: Spoon the cream cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap, forming a rough log shape.
- Shape the Log: Gently wrap the plastic wrap around the cheese mixture, shaping it into a log as you go. Twist the ends of the plastic wrap tightly to seal the log and help it maintain its shape.
- Chill: Place the wrapped cheese log in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the log to firm up. This is a REALLY important step, don’t skip it!
Coating the Log: The Finishing Touches
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the chopped fresh herbs, everything bagel seasoning, and paprika.
- Unwrap the Log: Remove the chilled cheese log from the refrigerator and unwrap it.
- Coat the Log: Gently roll the cheese log in the herb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating adheres to all sides. You might need to use your hands to help the coating stick.
- Serve: Transfer the coated cheese log to a serving platter and serve immediately with crackers, crusty bread, vegetables, or your favorite dippers.
Pro Tips and Tricks for Cheese Log Perfection
Softening Cream Cheese: The Right Way
As I mentioned earlier, softening the cream cheese is KEY! If it’s not soft enough, you’ll end up with a lumpy cheese log. If you forget to take it out in advance, you can submerge the unopened package in warm water for about 15-20 minutes. This will help soften it without melting it.
Herb Selection: Choose Your Favorites!
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs! While I love parsley, chives, rosemary, and thyme, you can also try dill, oregano, or even a touch of mint. Just make sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor and aroma. You can easily find dried herbs, but fresh makes all the difference!
Adding a Little Spice: Kick it Up a Notch
If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture or the coating. You could even use a jalapeño-infused cream cheese for an extra spicy kick. Looking for more spicy inspiration? You might also enjoy this Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip!
Nutty Goodness: Adding Texture and Flavor
Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even pistachios add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the cheese log. Toast the nuts lightly before adding them to enhance their flavor. If you’re serving the cheese log to someone with a nut allergy, be sure to omit the nuts!
Coating Variations: Get Creative!
The coating is where you can really let your creativity shine! Instead of the herb mixture, try coating the cheese log with chopped sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled bacon, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. The possibilities are endless!
Serving Suggestions: Pairing Your Cheese Log
Crackers and Bread: The Classic Companions
Serve your Garlic Herb Cheese Log with a variety of crackers and crusty bread. I like to offer a mix of flavors and textures, such as whole wheat crackers, baguette slices, and even some gluten-free options. You could also serve it with these Garlic Butter Bread Rolls for a truly amazing experience.
Vegetables: A Healthy and Delicious Option
Sliced cucumbers, carrots, celery sticks, and bell peppers are all great options for dipping into the cheese log. They add a refreshing crunch and a burst of color to your platter.
Charcuterie Board Addition: Elevate Your Spread
A Garlic Herb Cheese Log makes a wonderful addition to a charcuterie board. Pair it with cured meats, cheeses, olives, and other antipasto items for a truly impressive spread. Consider adding a Charcuterie Wreath for a festive touch!
Make Ahead and Storage Tips: Plan Ahead for Success
Make Ahead: Prepare in Advance
One of the best things about this recipe is that you can make it ahead of time! The cheese log can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just wait to coat it until right before serving. This makes it perfect for parties and holidays when you have a lot of other things to prepare.
Storage: Keeping it Fresh
If you have any leftover cheese log (which is unlikely!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 5 days. The herbs may start to wilt slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious. It’s also great spread on Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes!
Variations: Customize Your Cheese Log
Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log: A Festive Twist
For a festive holiday appetizer, add dried cranberries and chopped walnuts to the cheese mixture. This combination is both sweet and savory, and it’s sure to be a hit with your guests. It’s a bit like a Cranberry Brie Cheese Appetizer, but in log form!
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Cheese Log: An Italian Delight
Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil to the cheese mixture for an Italian-inspired cheese log. This variation is delicious with crusty bread and a drizzle of olive oil.
Smoked Salmon Cheese Log: A Seafood Sensation
Fold in chopped smoked salmon to the cheese mixture for a sophisticated and flavorful cheese log. This variation is perfect for brunch or a special occasion.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Homemade Cheese Log!
You’ve now got the skills to craft an amazing Garlic Herb Cheese Log that will wow everyone. This recipe is so versatile and easy to customize, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Get ready to receive compliments and have everyone asking for your recipe!Why is it important to soften the cream cheese before making the cheese log?
Softening the cream cheese is crucial to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth and creamy mixture. If you don’t have time to let it soften at room temperature, you can microwave it in short intervals, but be careful not to melt it.
Can I make the Garlic Herb Cheese Log ahead of time?
Yes, the cheese log can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to wait to coat it until right before serving to maintain the freshness of the herbs and seasoning.
What are some alternative coating ideas for the cheese log besides the herb mixture?
You can get creative with the coating! Some alternatives include chopped sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled bacon, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
What are some serving suggestions for the Garlic Herb Cheese Log?
Serve the cheese log with a variety of crackers and crusty bread, sliced vegetables like cucumbers and carrots, or as part of a charcuterie board with cured meats and cheeses.
Garlic Herb Cheese Log
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soften the cream cheese to room temperature.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Mix well with a hand mixer or spoon until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in nuts if using.
- Lay out a large sheet of plastic wrap.
- Spoon the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap, forming a rough log shape.
- Wrap the plastic wrap around the cheese mixture, shaping it into a log. Twist the ends tightly to seal.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
- In a shallow dish, combine the chopped fresh herbs, everything bagel seasoning, and paprika for the coating.
- Remove the chilled cheese log from the refrigerator and unwrap it.
- Roll the cheese log in the herb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating adheres to all sides.
- Transfer the coated cheese log to a serving platter and serve with crackers, bread, or vegetables.
