Description
This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is a perfect holiday appetizer! Creamy, tangy cream cheese is combined with sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and sharp cheddar for an irresistible flavor. Rolled in a festive cranberry-pecan coating, it’s beautiful, delicious, and easy to make. Serve with crackers or bread for the ultimate crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the cheese log:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup (30 g) dried cranberries, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the coating:
- 1/4 cup (30 g) dried cranberries, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup (30 g) pecans, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for color)
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, cranberries, pecans, honey, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Shape the log:
- Place the cheese mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Use your hands to shape it into a log, about 6–8 inches long. Wrap the plastic wrap tightly around the log and smooth out the shape.
- Chill the log in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Prepare the coating:
- In a shallow dish or plate, combine the finely chopped cranberries, pecans, and parsley (if using).
- Coat the cheese log:
- Unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it gently in the cranberry-pecan mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks evenly around the log.
- Serve:
- Transfer the cheese log to a serving plate. Serve immediately with crackers, pretzels, or sliced bread, or chill until ready to serve.
Notes
- Make-ahead: This cheese log can be made 1–2 days ahead. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Add the cranberry-pecan coating right before serving for a fresh appearance.
- Customizations: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a teaspoon of orange zest for a festive flavor boost.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.