Description
This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is a festive and creamy appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Softened cream cheese combined with tangy goat cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy toasted pecans creates a delightful flavor and texture contrast. Rolled in extra cranberries and pecans, this no-cook no-fuss cheese log pairs beautifully with crackers, baguette slices, or apple slices for an elegant starter or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz goat cheese (or more cream cheese if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, for brightness)
- Pinch of salt
Coating
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped and divided
- 1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped, divided
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, goat cheese, honey (or maple syrup), cinnamon, orange zest, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. Stir in half of the chopped cranberries and half of the pecans to evenly distribute the flavors and texture.
- Form the Cheese Log: Lay out a sheet of plastic wrap. Scoop the cheese mixture onto it and use the wrap to shape it into a firm log. Wrap tightly and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow it to firm up and hold its shape.
- Coat the Cheese Log: In a shallow dish, combine the remaining cranberries and pecans. Once chilled, unwrap the cheese log and roll it in the cranberry-pecan mixture, gently pressing to adhere the coating evenly over the entire surface.
- Serve: Transfer the coated cheese log to a serving plate. Serve with your choice of crackers, sliced baguette, or apple slices for a festive and delicious appetizer.
Notes
- Make this cheese log up to 3 days ahead of time and keep refrigerated.
- For a savory variation, add chopped green onions or a dash of black pepper into the cheese mixture.
- Use gluten-free crackers to make this appetizer gluten-free friendly.
