Easy recipe for Garlic Chive Cheese Log! This savory, creamy appetizer is packed with fresh herbs, a hint of garlic, and a touch of lemon zest. Rolled in crunchy walnuts and topped with chive blossoms, it’s simple to make ahead and perfect for summer gatherings or casual snacking with crackers.
8ozfull-fat brick-style cream cheesesoftened to room temperature
8ozgoat cheesesoftened to room temperature
2garlic cloves minced
1/2cupfinely chopped fresh chives(divided 2 tablespoons for topping)
2tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil leaves
1tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
1tablespoon lemon zest
1/4teaspoon kosher salt
1/4teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1cup chopped walnutsfor topping
2tablespoon honey optional
1/4chive blossom, to decorateoptional
Instructions
Add walnuts to a food processor and pulse until they’re finely chopped—but be careful not to overdo it. You want small pieces, not walnut dust! Set them aside.
Rinse, pat dry, and finely chop fresh chives, fresh basil, and fresh parsley.
In a mixing bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese and goat cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the minced garlic, chopped basil, parsley, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and most of the chives (saving 2 spoonfuls for the topping). Mix until everything is well combined.
Using a silicone spatula, scrape down the sides of the bowl. Scoop the cheese mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap and shape it into a log; the mixture will be slightly sticky. Wrap it tightly and place it in the freezer for 20–30 minutes. You want it to firm up enough to hold its shape but still be soft enough for the coating to stick.
While the cheese log chills, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the chopped walnuts mixed with the reserved chives into a single-layer square slightly larger than the length of the cheese log.When the cheese is ready, unwrap the chilled log and place it at one edge of the walnut mixture. Roll the log over the nuts and herbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks evenly all around. At this point, you can refrigerate the log until you're ready to serve or serve it right away.
When ready to serve, remove it from the refrigerator 15 minutes before serving so it can soften slightly. Drizzle with honey and top with a few chive blossoms for a pretty finish. Serve with your favorite crackers, toasted baguette slices, apple slices, or celery sticks.
Notes
Store Instructions:Store any leftover cheese log in a glass container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days, though it tastes best within the first 5 days.