Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe for Holiday Joy

Crafting a delightful cranberry pecan cheese log promises to become your next culinary adventure.

Savory cream cheese blends seamlessly with tart berries and crunchy nuts.

Unexpected flavor combinations make this appetizer stand out at any gathering.

Holiday tables or casual get-togethers welcome such delectable treats.

Festive ingredients mingle to create something truly special and memorable.

Guests will appreciate the intricate balance of textures and tastes.

Whip up this simple yet impressive starter that sparks conversation and delights every palate.

Crackers and Wines to Serve Alongside

• Grab crisp rosemary crackers or buttery water crackers that complement the tangy cheese and sweet cranberry notes, providing a delightful crunch.
• Select a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Grigio that cuts through the richness of the cheese log and enhances the nutty pecan undertones.
• Enjoy a sparkling apple cider or light amber craft beer that balances the creamy texture and adds refreshing brightness to each bite.
• Arrange the cheese log on a rustic wooden board with fresh apple slices, honey drizzle, and additional whole pecans to elevate the presentation and flavor experience.

Toppings to Try Beyond the Basics

Gluten-Free Variation: Replace traditional ingredients with gluten-free crackers and use certified gluten-free cream cheese to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities.

Low-Carb Variation: Swap honey for a sugar-free sweetener and serve with cucumber slices or low-carb vegetable sticks instead of traditional crackers.

Vegan Cheese Log: Substitute dairy cheeses with cashew-based cream cheese and nutritional yeast for a plant-based alternative that maintains rich, tangy flavor.

Spicy Southwestern Variation: Add diced jalapeños, chopped green chilies, and replace some pecans with pepitas for a zesty, southwestern-inspired cheese log with extra kick.

FAQs for This Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer

• Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with goat cheese or swap cheddar with monterey jack for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheeses are softened for easy mixing.

• How fine should I chop the cranberries and pecans for coating?

Chop them into small, roughly uniform pieces about the size of rice grains. This ensures an even, attractive coating that sticks well to the cheese log.

• Is this recipe good for making ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese log up to 2-3 days in advance. Keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator and add the coating just before serving to maintain crispness.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free crackers or bread for serving. The cheese log itself is naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy adaptation for those with dietary restrictions.

What Makes This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Stand Out

• The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is Perfect For…
• Prepare this stunning appetizer in just 15 minutes, with minimal cooking skills required. Guests will be impressed by the elegant presentation and rich flavor combinations.
• Assemble the cheese log up to 2 days before serving, making event preparation stress-free. Refrigerate and coat just before guests arrive for maximum convenience.
• Blend sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and tangy cheeses for a sophisticated taste profile that appeals to multiple palates. The mix of textures creates an irresistible appetizer that disappears quickly at gatherings.
• Serve as a holiday appetizer, potluck contribution, or casual game-day snack. Pairs perfectly with crackers, pretzels, and bread, making it adaptable for any social occasion.

Ingredients That Bring Sweet, Savory, and Crunch

• Cream Cheese: Soft, creamy foundation for the cheese log with rich texture.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheese that adds depth and bold flavor.

• Pecans, Cranberries: Provide delightful crunch and sweet-tart contrast with nutty undertones, best when fresh and chopped.

• Honey: Natural sweetener that balances savory flavors.
• Garlic Powder: Subtle, aromatic seasoning for depth.
• Salt: Enhances overall taste and brings out other ingredients' flavors.

• Pecans, Cranberries, Parsley: Decorative and crunchy exterior that adds visual appeal and extra texture, finely chopped for smooth coating.

How to Roll and Chill the Cheese Log

Step 1: Blend Flavorful Mixture

Mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, cranberries, pecans, honey, garlic powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are perfectly combined and create a smooth, rich blend.

Step 2: Shape Elegant Log

Spread plastic wrap on a clean surface. Transfer cheese mixture onto the wrap. Using hands, carefully mold the mixture into a smooth cylindrical log measuring about 6-8 inches long. Wrap tightly, ensuring a uniform shape. Smooth out any uneven surfaces with gentle pressure.

Step 3: Chill and Solidify

Place wrapped cheese log in refrigerator. Allow it to rest and firm up for at least one hour. Chilling helps the log maintain its shape and enhances flavor melding.

Step 4: Create Crunchy Coating

• Finely chopped cranberries
• Crushed pecans
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Combine ingredients in a shallow dish, mixing well to create a textured, colorful coating.

Step 5: Add Decorative Exterior

Remove chilled log from refrigerator. Unwrap carefully. Gently roll log in prepared coating mixture. Press lightly to ensure even coverage and maximum adherence of nuts and cranberries.

Step 6: Prepare for Serving

• Crisp crackers
• Soft pretzels
• Sliced artisan bread
• Vegetable sticks

Serve immediately or keep chilled until ready to enjoy. Perfect for gatherings, appetizers, or elegant snacking.

Tips for Neat Slicing and Full Flavor

• Soften Cheese Perfectly: Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before mixing to ensure smooth, lump-free blending.
• Control Moisture Levels: Pat dried cranberries with paper towel to remove excess moisture, preventing soggy cheese log texture.
• Customize Coating Crunch: Toast pecans lightly before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor and add extra crispness to the exterior.
• Make Ahead Magic: Prepare cheese log up to 3 days in advance, wrapping tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness and allow flavors to meld.
• Accommodate Dietary Needs: Swap regular cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives for vegan guests, using nutritional yeast for extra cheesy flavor.

Store and Slice This Cheese Log with Care

• Store the cheese log tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, maintaining its freshness and flavor.
• Place the wrapped log in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other refrigerator odors and protect its creamy texture.
• Remove the cheese log from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before serving to soften slightly, which makes slicing and spreading easier.
• Wrap the log securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Festive holiday gatherings sparkle with this creamy cranberry pecan cheese log, blending tangy cream cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans into an irresistible appetizer. Guests will savor each elegant bite, making this simple recipe a perfect centerpiece for seasonal celebrations.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (50 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup (30 grams) dried cranberries, finely chopped
• ¼ cup (30 grams) chopped pecans

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon honey
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Coating Ingredients:

• ¼ cup (30 grams) dried cranberries, finely chopped
• ¼ cup (30 grams) pecans, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for color)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Gently blend softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar, chopped cranberries, crushed pecans, honey, garlic powder, and salt in a spacious mixing bowl until ingredients harmonize into a uniform mixture.
2. Transfer the cheese blend onto plastic wrap, carefully molding it into an elongated cylindrical shape approximately 6-8 inches long, ensuring smooth, even surfaces.
3. Securely encase the cheese log with plastic wrap, pressing and smoothing the exterior to create a compact, refined form.
4. Refrigerate the wrapped cheese log for a minimum of 60 minutes, allowing the mixture to solidify and develop enhanced flavor profiles.
5. While the log chills, prepare the exterior coating by finely dicing additional cranberries and pecans, and mincing fresh parsley for added texture and visual appeal.
6. Remove the chilled cheese log from refrigeration and delicately roll its surface through the prepared cranberry-pecan-parsley mixture, applying gentle pressure to ensure an even, adherent coating.
7. Position the fully coated cheese log on an elegant serving platter, presenting it alongside crisp crackers, rustic pretzels, or artisan bread slices for a sophisticated appetizer experience.

Notes

• Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth mixing and easier blending of ingredients.
• Toast pecans beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and add extra crunch to the cheese log.
• Finely chop cranberries and pecans for coating to create a more uniform and visually appealing exterior.
• Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to add unique flavor dimensions to the cheese mixture.
• For a lighter version, substitute half the cream cheese with Greek yogurt to reduce calories while maintaining creamy texture.
• Make ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days, allowing flavors to meld and develop a more complex taste profile.
• Adjust honey quantity based on desired sweetness level, keeping balance with savory cheese components.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 35 mg