Herb-Coated Cheese Log

Featured in: Weekend Feast Ideas

This creamy cheese blend combines cream cheese, goat cheese, and sharp cheddar, enhanced with chives and Dijon mustard for a balanced tang. Rolled in a fresh herb mixture of parsley, dill, chives, and lemon zest, it offers vibrant flavors and an appealing texture. Chilled before serving to firm up, the cheese log is elegantly presented with a crisp ring of assorted crackers. Perfect for gatherings, this dish brings fresh herbal notes and a creamy texture to any appetizer spread.

Updated on Fri, 12 Dec 2025 16:41:00 GMT
Herb-coated cheese log with vibrant green herbs and crispy crackers, a tasty appetizer that's ready to enjoy. Save
Herb-coated cheese log with vibrant green herbs and crispy crackers, a tasty appetizer that's ready to enjoy. | smokyfeast.com

A creamy, tangy cheese log coated in fresh herbs, served with a crisp ring of assorted crackers—perfect for entertaining or as an elegant appetizer.

This cheese log has become a favorite at all our gatherings because it's not only delicious but also visually impressive and versatile.

Ingredients

  • Cheese Mixture: 225 g (8 oz) cream cheese softened, 115 g (4 oz) goat cheese softened, 60 g (½ cup) shredded sharp cheddar, 1 tablespoon fresh chives finely chopped, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Herb Coating: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped, 2 tablespoons fresh dill finely chopped, 1 tablespoon fresh chives finely chopped, 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Serving: 30–40 assorted crackers (gluten-free crackers if desired)

Instructions

Step 1:
In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, goat cheese, cheddar, chives, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Beat until smooth and well-mixed.
Step 2:
Spoon the cheese mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Shape into a log about 20 cm (8 inches) long. Wrap and chill for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Step 3:
In a shallow dish, mix together parsley, dill, chives, and lemon zest.
Step 4:
Unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it in the herb mixture, pressing gently to coat all sides evenly.
Step 5:
Place the cheese log in the center of a serving platter. Arrange crackers in a ring around the log.
Step 6:
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for best texture.
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This recipe brings back warm memories of family gatherings where everyone enjoyed the unique combination of herbs and cheese.

Notes

For added flavor, roll the cheese log in chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts before the herbs. Substitute goat cheese with feta or blue cheese for a different profile.

Serving Suggestions

Pairs well with crisp white wine or sparkling wine. Serve alongside fresh veggies for added variety.

Allergen Information

Contains dairy and gluten unless gluten-free crackers are used. Always check labels when serving guests with dietary restrictions.

Close-up of a herby, creamy herb-coated cheese log with a ring of colorful, crunchy crackers for dipping. Save
Close-up of a herby, creamy herb-coated cheese log with a ring of colorful, crunchy crackers for dipping. | smokyfeast.com

This herb-coated cheese log is the perfect elegant appetizer that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum enjoyment.

Kitchen Questions

What cheeses are best for this herb-coated cheese log?

A combination of cream cheese, goat cheese, and sharp cheddar creates a creamy, tangy base with depth of flavor.

How can I make the herb coating more flavorful?

Use fresh parsley, dill, chives, and lemon zest for bright, fresh flavors that complement the creamy cheese base.

Can I prepare this cheese log ahead of time?

Yes, chilling the rolled cheese log for at least one hour helps it firm up and allows flavors to meld beautifully.

What are good serving suggestions for this herb-coated cheese log?

Arrange the cheese log surrounded by assorted crackers, including gluten-free options, for easy sharing and contrast in textures.

Are there variations to the cheese mixture?

Substituting goat cheese with feta or blue cheese can offer different flavor profiles, while adding chopped nuts before herbs adds texture and richness.

Herb-Coated Cheese Log

Creamy cheese blend coated in fresh herbs, served with crisp crackers for a flavorful bite.

Prep duration
20 min
0
Complete duration
20 min
Created by Jackson Reed


Skill Level Easy

Heritage American

Output 8 Portions

Nutrition Labels Meat-Free

What You'll Need

Cheese Mixture

01 8 oz cream cheese, softened
02 4 oz goat cheese, softened
03 ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar
04 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
05 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
06 ½ teaspoon garlic powder
07 ¼ teaspoon black pepper
08 ¼ teaspoon salt

Herb Coating

01 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
02 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
03 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
04 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Serving

01 30–40 assorted crackers (use gluten-free crackers if desired)

Method

Phase 01

Combine Cheese Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, goat cheese, cheddar, chives, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt together until smooth and fully integrated.

Phase 02

Shape and Chill: Transfer the cheese mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap; shape into an 8-inch log, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm.

Phase 03

Prepare Herb Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine parsley, dill, chives, and lemon zest, mixing thoroughly.

Phase 04

Coat Cheese Log: Unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll evenly in the herb mixture, pressing gently to ensure full coating on all sides.

Phase 05

Arrange and Serve: Place the herb-coated cheese log in the center of a serving platter and arrange crackers in a circular ring around it.

Phase 06

Final Serving Recommendation: Serve immediately or keep refrigerated until needed. For optimal texture, allow the log to rest at room temperature for 10 minutes prior to serving.

Kitchen Tools

  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer or sturdy spoon
  • Plastic wrap
  • Shallow dish
  • Serving platter

Allergy Details

Always review ingredients for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if unsure.
  • Contains dairy from cream cheese, goat cheese, and cheddar.
  • Contains gluten if regular crackers are used.
  • Check cracker labels for additional allergens when serving guests with dietary restrictions.

Nutrition Details (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - please consult healthcare providers for specific advice.
  • Energy: 180
  • Fats: 13 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Proteins: 6 g