Name: Lemon Thyme Cheese Log Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup crumbled feta; Zest of 1 lemon; 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped nuts (for rolling, optional)

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Introduction

This Lemon Thyme Cheese Log is a bright and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. Creamy cream cheese and tangy feta blend smoothly with fresh lemon zest and thyme, creating a deliciously refreshing cheese spread. Ready in minutes and easy to prepare ahead, it’s sure to impress your guests.

The image shows a rolled cheese log on a white marbled surface, with layers of creamy white cheese combined with green herbs mixed inside and scattered on top, creating a textured look. The roll is sliced at the front, revealing the soft, buttery layers with bits of herbs embedded throughout. Surrounding the cheese roll are thin lemon slices with bright yellow rinds and pale interiors, adding a fresh accent to the scene. A few sprigs of fresh green herbs lie on and around the cheese, enhancing the natural and fresh feel of the presentation. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup crumbled feta
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped nuts (optional, for rolling)

Instructions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and crumbled feta. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Stir in the lemon zest and chopped thyme. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Step 3: Shape the cheese mixture into a log using plastic wrap, rolling it tightly to hold its shape.
Step 4: If you like, roll the log in chopped nuts to add extra texture and crunch.
Step 5: Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up and allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Slice into rounds and serve with an assortment of crackers or fresh vegetables.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, skip rolling in chopped nuts and instead dust with extra lemon zest or herbs.
Try adding a drizzle of honey or a pinch of chili flakes for a sweet or spicy twist.
Use fresh herbs like rosemary or basil if thyme isn’t available for a different herbal note.
Make the cheese log a day ahead to deepen the flavors even more.

Storage

Store the cheese log wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, slice and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly for the best texture. Leftovers can also be spread on toast or crackers within the storage period.

How to Serve

A rolled dessert with three visible layers sits on a wooden board. The outer layer is smooth and light yellow, slightly glossy with small green herb leaves and thin yellow zest strands sprinkled on top. The middle layer is white and creamy with a soft texture, also mixed with small green herb pieces and yellow zest inside. On the board around the roll, there are lemon halves and fresh green herb sprigs, all against a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?

Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or ricotta for a milder flavor. Just keep the texture similar for easier blending.

How far ahead can I prepare the cheese log?

The cheese log can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Refrigeration allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up perfectly.

Lemon Thyme Cheese Log Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 127 reviews

This Lemon Thyme Cheese Log is a delightful, creamy appetizer perfect for entertaining. Combining tangy cream cheese and feta with fresh lemon zest and thyme, this easy no-cook recipe offers bright, herbaceous flavors. Rolled optionally in chopped nuts, the cheese log is chilled to firm up and served sliced alongside crackers or vegetables for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Author: Ruby
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Mixture

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup crumbled feta
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Coating

Chopped nuts (for rolling, optional)

Instructions

Combine Cheeses: In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and crumbled feta until smooth and creamy using a spatula or electric mixer.
Add Flavorings: Stir in the lemon zest and chopped fresh thyme leaves. Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences, ensuring the flavors are well balanced.
Shape the Log: Transfer the cheese mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Using the plastic wrap, shape it into a compact log form, smoothing the surface for an even shape.
Roll in Nuts (Optional): If desired, spread chopped nuts on a clean surface and roll the cheese log over them to coat evenly, adding texture and flavor.
Chill: Wrap the cheese log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This allows the mixture to firm up and flavors to meld.
Serve: Once chilled, unwrap and slice the log into rounds. Serve these cheese rounds chilled with an assortment of crackers or raw vegetables as an elegant appetizer.

Notes

For best results, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to make mixing easier.
Fresh thyme provides a brighter flavor than dried thyme, but dried can be used if fresh is unavailable.
You can substitute feta with goat cheese for a different tangy profile.
Chilling the cheese log for longer enhances firmness and flavor melding.
Try serving with a variety of crackers, pita chips, or fresh veggies like cucumber and bell pepper slices.

Keywords: lemon thyme cheese log, cheese appetizer, no bake cheese log, feta cheese appetizer, cream cheese log, easy party appetizer