Garlic Herb Cheese Log with Pecan Coating Recipe

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, elegant appetizer that’s as tasty as it is easy to make, you’ve got to try my Garlic Herb Cheese Log with Pecan Coating Recipe. I absolutely love how this cheese log bursts with fresh herbs and garlic, and then gets that irresistible crunch from the pecan crust. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a fancy snack that feels homemade, you’ll find this recipe incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple to pull off.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients work together like a little flavor dream team. The fresh herbs brighten the creamy goat cheese, while the garlic and lemon zest give it a punch. And then those pecans? They add that nutty, toasty finish that really makes this cheese log pop. When you shop, try to get the freshest herbs you can find – it really makes a difference!

• Soft fresh goat cheese log: The base of our cheese log; creamy and tangy. You can also swap in cream cheese for a milder, creamier texture.
• Fresh chives: Adds subtle oniony notes and a lovely green color.
• Fresh parsley: Brightens up the cheese with its clean, herbaceous flavor.
• Fresh basil leaves: Gives a slight peppery sweetness; feel free to use dried if fresh isn’t available.
• Fresh oregano leaves: Offers a bit of earthiness to balance the other herbs.
• Garlic clove: I always use fresh minced garlic for the best flavor, but you can use powder in a pinch.
• Lemon zest: This small addition really lifts the entire flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance all the other ingredients.
• Finely chopped pecans: For that crunchy, nutty coating that makes the log irresistible.
• Olive oil: Just a little drizzle at the end to finish things off with a silky touch.

Variations

I like to mix things up with this Garlic Herb Cheese Log with Pecan Coating Recipe depending on what herbs I have on hand or the occasion. You can easily personalize it to your palate or dietary needs—plus, switching up the nuts or adding a twist can keep this recipe fresh and exciting every time.

• Herb Swaps: I’ve swapped oregano for thyme, or added dill for a unique flavor twist, and it always turns out lovely.
• Cream Cheese Option: For a milder, smoother log, I sometimes replace goat cheese with cream cheese, adding a bit of grated Parmesan for extra depth.
• Nut Alternatives: While pecans are my favorite for crunch, chopped toasted walnuts or almonds work too—though pecans just have that special flavor.
• Nut-Free Coatings: If you have nut allergies, panko breadcrumbs toasted in butter are a good crunchy substitute.

How to Make Garlic Herb Cheese Log with Pecan Coating Recipe

Step 1: Mix Your Herbs and Seasonings

Start by finely chopping your fresh herbs—chives, parsley, basil, and oregano—and combine them in a medium bowl. Whisk them together so their flavors start mingling. Then, set aside about 1 ½ teaspoons of this herb mix for the pecan coating later. To the rest, add your minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir it up well so everything distributes evenly. This is the flavor base that will permeate the goat cheese.

Step 2: Fold the Cheese in Gently

Now, add the goat cheese to your seasoned herbs. I like to use a spoon to gently fold the cheese and herbs together. Don’t overmix—just enough to evenly distribute the herbs and garlic so your log is bursting with those vibrant flavors in every bite. If your goat cheese feels too soft, chilling it a bit before starting helps with shaping later.

Step 3: Shape and Chill the Cheese Log

Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on your counter and spoon the cheese mixture in the center. Use the plastic wrap to shape the mixture into a firm log, twisting the ends to secure it. Pop it into the freezer for 20-30 minutes so it firms up just enough to hold its shape but remains soft enough for the pecan coating to stick. Don’t freeze it too long—you want it pliable, not rock hard.

Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Herb Coating

Line your counter with a large piece of parchment paper. Mix the chopped pecans with the reserved 1 ½ teaspoons of herbs you set aside earlier. Spread this mixture into a single-layer square slightly bigger than your cheese log. This step allows you to roll the cheese log evenly in the pecan mixture without making a mess.

Step 5: Roll the Cheese Log in the Pecan Coating

Take your chilled cheese log from the freezer and place it at the edge of the pecan coating. Carefully roll the log over the pecans, pressing gently as you go to ensure the coating sticks well. You’ll want the coating to cling to every inch of the log for that perfect crunchy exterior. Once coated, you can store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve, or serve immediately if you prefer.

Step 6: Toast your Bread and Serve

For the best experience, slice a baguette into 1/2-inch thick slices, arrange them on a baking sheet, and drizzle generously with olive oil. Bake in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until golden and crisp on the edges. Before serving your cheese log, let it come to room temperature for 15 minutes so it softens slightly, then drizzle with olive oil. Serve alongside those toasty baguette slices or your favorite crackers. Trust me, the combination is heavenly.

How to Serve Garlic Herb Cheese Log with Pecan Coating Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this cheese log with a simple drizzle of good-quality olive oil right before serving—it adds a subtle richness and a beautiful glossy sheen. Sometimes, I sprinkle a few extra chopped chives or a pinch of flaky sea salt on top to elevate the flavors even more. For a festive touch, pomegranate seeds scattered around make a gorgeous, colorful contrast that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.

Side Dishes

This cheese log pairs wonderfully with toasty baguette slices (of course!), but I also like serving it alongside crisp apple or pear slices for a refreshing sweet contrast. A small bowl of marinated olives or a crunchy vegetable crudité platter works great for rounds of contrast in texture and flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I sometimes arrange the cheese log on a wooden board surrounded by fresh herbs and nuts for a rustic look. Cutting the log into bite-sized rounds and placing toothpicks into them makes for easy finger food. You could even customize individual mini cheese logs for each guest—just roll smaller portions in pecans and herbs for a fun, personalized touch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I wrap the cheese log tightly in plastic wrap and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. The pecan coating tends to soften a bit in the fridge, but the flavor is still fantastic. When I’m ready to serve leftovers, I like to let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to bring back that creamy texture before eating.

Freezing

Freezing is great if you want to prep the cheese log ahead of time. I freeze the log uncoated, then thaw it in the fridge before rolling it in the pecan mixture just prior to serving. This keeps the coating nice and crunchy. Just make sure to wrap it well to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating

This cheese log is best enjoyed at room temperature, so no reheating needed. If it’s been refrigerated, just let it acclimate on the counter for about 15 minutes before serving to restore that creamy, spreadable texture everyone loves.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Garlic Herb Cheese Log with Pecan Coating Recipe enough—it’s become my go-to when I want something simple yet impressive. It’s just the right balance of creamy, fresh, and crunchy with minimal fuss. I think you’ll love how easy it is to make but how it always gets raves from family and friends. Give it a try next time you want to bring something a little special to the table—you’ll be glad you did!

Print