Winter Snowdrift Goat Cheese

Featured in: Vegetarian Picks

This chilled goat cheese log is gently coated with a blend of fresh herbs, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, lemon zest, and black pepper. The mixture adds vibrant flavor and texture, making it ideal for holiday or casual gatherings. After coating, the cheese is refrigerated to meld flavors, then served with crackers or baguette slices. Optional honey drizzle enhances sweetness and pairs beautifully with crisp white wines. Nut-free alternatives and gluten-free serving suggestions make it versatile for various preferences.

Updated on Wed, 10 Dec 2025 16:00:00 GMT
Festive Winter Snowdrift Goat Cheese Log, richly coating the creamy goat cheese appetizer. Pin
Festive Winter Snowdrift Goat Cheese Log, richly coating the creamy goat cheese appetizer. | garlicgroove.com

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

This has been my go-to appetizer for holiday parties because it combines elegance with simplicity.

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
Vibrant image of the Winter Snowdrift Goat Cheese Log, ready to be served with crackers. Pin
Vibrant image of the Winter Snowdrift Goat Cheese Log, ready to be served with crackers. | garlicgroove.com

This cheese log always brings the whole family together during holiday celebrations.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light sparkling wine for a perfect balance.

Storage

Keep refrigerated and consume within 3 days for best freshness.

Allergen Info

Contains milk (goat cheese) and tree nuts (walnuts). Check packaging for gluten-free certification if needed.

Close-up of a delightful Winter Snowdrift Goat Cheese Log, showcasing the herb and nut coating. Pin
Close-up of a delightful Winter Snowdrift Goat Cheese Log, showcasing the herb and nut coating. | garlicgroove.com

A simple yet elegant appetizer guaranteed to impress with minimal effort.

Recipe Questions

How should I prepare the herb and nut coating?

Combine finely chopped fresh chives, parsley, dill, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, lemon zest, and black pepper in a shallow dish. Mix thoroughly before rolling the goat cheese log in it.

Can I make this coating nut-free?

Yes, omit the walnuts and increase the quantity of herbs and dried cranberries to maintain flavor and texture.

What is the best way to serve the coated cheese log?

Chill the coated cheese for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld, then serve with crackers or baguette slices. A drizzle of honey is optional for added sweetness.

Are there any recommended beverage pairings?

This cheese pairing works well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light sparkling wine to complement its creamy and tangy notes.

How can I adapt this for gluten-free guests?

Simply serve with gluten-free crackers or breads to accommodate gluten-free diets without altering the cheese preparation.

Winter Snowdrift Goat Cheese

Creamy goat cheese rolled in herbs, nuts, and cranberries for a flavorful festive appetizer.

Prep duration
15 min
0
Complete duration
15 min


Complexity Easy

Heritage American

Output 8 Portions

Dietary requirements Vegetarian, No gluten

Components

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)

Directions

Step 01

Prepare Herb and Nut Mixture: Combine chives, parsley, dill, walnuts, cranberries, lemon zest, and black pepper in a shallow dish and mix thoroughly.

Step 02

Coat Cheese Log: Roll the chilled goat cheese log gently in the herb and nut mixture, pressing lightly for an even coating.

Step 03

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

Step 04

Serve: Before serving, drizzle honey if desired and accompany with crackers or baguette slices.

Necessary tools

  • cutting board
  • sharp knife
  • shallow dish or plate
  • serving platter

Allergy details

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and speak with a healthcare provider if you're uncertain about anything.
  • Contains milk (goat cheese) and tree nuts (walnuts).
  • Check ingredient packaging for strict gluten-free or nut-free needs.

Nutrition breakdown (per portion)

These values are provided as estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 130
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7 g
  • Protein: 6 g