Winter Snowdrift Goat Cheese

Featured in: Savory Stories

This Winter Snowdrift goat cheese log is a simple yet flavorful creation featuring creamy goat cheese rolled in a blend of fresh chives, parsley, dill, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and lemon zest. The aromatic coating adds texture and brightness while the hint of black pepper brings subtle heat. Chilling allows the flavors to meld, making it ideal for festive gatherings or as a refined appetizer. Serve chilled with crackers or baguette slices, optionally drizzled with honey for added sweetness.

Updated on Wed, 10 Dec 2025 12:27:00 GMT
Creamy Winter Snowdrift Goat Cheese Log, covered in herbs and nuts, ready for dipping crackers. Save
Creamy Winter Snowdrift Goat Cheese Log, covered in herbs and nuts, ready for dipping crackers. | tastychuck.com

A creamy goat cheese log rolled in a snowy blend of herbs, nuts, and dried cranberries—perfect for festive gatherings.

I love serving this goat cheese log at holiday parties because it always impresses guests and is easy to prepare in advance.

Ingredients

  • Cheese: 300 g (10 oz) fresh goat cheese log, chilled
  • Herb & Nut Coating: 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped 1/3 cup toasted walnuts, finely chopped 1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped 1 tsp lemon zest, finely grated Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Garnish & Serving: Crackers or baguette slices, for serving Honey, for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

Step 1:
In a shallow dish, combine the chives, parsley, dill, walnuts, cranberries, lemon zest, and black pepper. Mix well.
Step 2:
Roll the chilled goat cheese log gently in the herb and nut mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating on all sides.
Step 3:
Transfer the coated cheese log to a serving platter. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 4:
Before serving, drizzle with honey if desired. Serve with crackers or baguette slices.
Festive Winter Snowdrift Goat Cheese Log, a delicious appetizer with cranberries and walnuts. Save
Festive Winter Snowdrift Goat Cheese Log, a delicious appetizer with cranberries and walnuts. | tastychuck.com

This recipe has become a family favorite at every holiday gathering we host, always bringing smiles and compliments.

Required Tools

Cutting board Sharp knife Shallow dish or plate Serving platter

Allergen Information

Contains milk (goat cheese) and tree nuts (walnuts) Check packaging of cheese and other ingredients if you require strict gluten-free or nut-free preparation

Nutritional Information

Calories: 130 Total Fat: 9 g Carbohydrates: 7 g Protein: 6 g

Sliced Winter Snowdrift Goat Cheese Log with a vibrant herb and nut crust, perfect for serving. Save
Sliced Winter Snowdrift Goat Cheese Log with a vibrant herb and nut crust, perfect for serving. | tastychuck.com

This goat cheese log is a simple yet elegant appetizer that elevates any celebration.

Recipe Guide

How long should I chill the cheese log?

Chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the coating set firmly.

Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?

Yes, pistachios or pecans work well and provide different flavor profiles.

What type of cheese is best for this dish?

A fresh goat cheese log with firm texture and mild tang complements the herb and nut coating.

Is it possible to make a nut-free version?

Omit walnuts and increase the quantity of herbs and dried cranberries for texture and flavor.

What beverages pair well with this cheese log?

Light wines like Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling wine perfectly balance the flavors.

Can this be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, preparing it several hours ahead helps intensify the herb and nut flavors.

Winter Snowdrift Goat Cheese

Creamy goat cheese log coated in herbs, nuts, and cranberries, perfect for holiday appetizers.

Prep duration
15 min
0
Full duration
15 min
Created by Chuck Harrison


Skill level Easy

Heritage American

Output 8 Portions

Nutrition Labels Meat-free, No gluten

What you'll need

Cheese

01 10 oz fresh goat cheese log, chilled

Herb & Nut Coating

01 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
02 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
03 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
04 1/3 cup toasted walnuts, finely chopped
05 1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
06 1 tsp lemon zest, finely grated
07 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Garnish & Serving

01 Crackers or baguette slices, for serving
02 Honey, for drizzling (optional)

Method

Phase 01

Prepare Herb and Nut Mixture: Combine chives, parsley, dill, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, lemon zest, and freshly ground black pepper in a shallow dish. Mix thoroughly to blend flavors.

Phase 02

Coat Cheese Log: Gently roll the chilled goat cheese log in the herb and nut mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating on all sides.

Phase 03

Chill Coated Cheese: Place the coated cheese log on a serving platter. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Phase 04

Serve: Optionally drizzle with honey before serving. Present with crackers or baguette slices.

Kitchen tools

  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Shallow dish or plate
  • Serving platter

Allergy alerts

Always review ingredients for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if unsure
  • Contains milk (goat cheese) and tree nuts (walnuts). Check packaging for gluten- and nut-free suitability.

Nutrition breakdown (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - consult healthcare providers for specific advice
  • Energy: 130
  • Fats: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7 g
  • Proteins: 6 g