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Lemon Thyme Cheese Log Recipe

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.

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

  1. Combine Cheeses: In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and crumbled feta until smooth and creamy using a spatula or electric mixer.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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