Measure out your ingredients: 8 ounces of cream cheese and 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Finely chop fresh parsley and basil, and gather 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and grated Parmesan. Blend until smooth and creamy, then gently fold in the fresh parsley, basil, and garlic powder.

Transfer the cheese mixture onto plastic wrap and shape it into a log approximately 10 inches long. Wrap tightly, twisting the ends to avoid air pockets.

Place the wrapped cheese log in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours.

Unwrap the cheese log and slice it into thick, even rounds. Arrange on a platter and add any optional toppings like chopped herbs or choice of coating.