If you are looking for a delightful appetizer that brings together the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors, this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe is an absolute must-try. It is wonderfully creamy, nutty, and packed with bursts of tart cranberry that make every bite exciting. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want to impress guests with something unique, this recipe offers an effortlessly elegant dish that will quickly become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step towards creating that incredible combination of flavors and textures. Each element plays a special role.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The creamy base that provides smoothness and richness for the log.
- Cheddar cheese (1 cup, grated): Adds sharpness and depth, balancing the sweetness of cranberries.
- Pecans (1 cup, chopped): Bring a delightful crunch and a toasty, buttery flavor.
- Dried cranberries (½ cup, chopped): Provide bursts of sweet and tangy notes that brighten the log.
- Fresh chives (¼ cup, chopped): Give a subtle oniony freshness and vibrant green color.
- Cling film: Essential for shaping and chilling the cheese log without mess.
- Sharp knife and chopping board: For slicing the finished log cleanly and prepping ingredients.
- Mixing bowls and spatula: To combine your ingredients smoothly and effortlessly.
How to Make Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Nuts, Cranberries, and Chives
Start by mixing the chopped pecans, dried cranberries, and fresh chives in a small bowl. This flavorful mix will add texture and a burst of color both inside and on the outside of the cheese log.
Step 2: Blend Cream Cheese and Cheddar
In a larger bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with grated cheddar cheese. Stir them together until thoroughly blended to create a rich, creamy base that will hold all those tasty mix-ins perfectly.
Step 3: Stir in Half of the Pecan Mixture
Next, fold half of your nut and cranberry mixture into the cheese blend. This ensures the flavors are evenly distributed and gives the log an inviting, festive appearance once sliced.
Step 4: Shape the Cheese Log and Chill
Spoon the cheese mixture onto a piece of cling film, then mold it into a log shape using your hands. Wrap it tightly in the cling film and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour to firm up and let the flavors marry beautifully.
Step 5: Coat the Log with Remaining Mixture and Slice
After chilling, unwrap the cheese log and spread the remaining pecan, cranberry, and chive mixture on a clean surface. Roll the log gently over it to coat the outside completely. Slice into serving-size pieces using a sharp knife, and your cheese log is ready to impress!
How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like extra chopped chives or whole pecans around your platter instantly enhances both the look and flavor profile of your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can also add a subtle spice contrast.
Side Dishes
This cheese log pairs wonderfully with an assortment of crisp crackers, crusty bread slices, or even fresh vegetable sticks like cucumbers or bell peppers. A small bowl of honey or fig jam on the side creates a delightful sweet complement.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, you can serve smaller individual cheese balls instead of a log, rolled in the pecan and cranberry mixture. Alternatively, arranging the log on a festive wooden board with seasonal fruits and nuts turns it into the star of any holiday or casual gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator wrapped tightly in cling film or stored in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 5 days, making it convenient for snacking later on.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this cheese log well in advance, it freezes surprisingly well. Wrap it securely in cling film and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and then proceed to coat with the remaining nut mixture before serving.
Reheating
This cheese log is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature to fully appreciate its creamy texture and crunchy coating. Avoid reheating, as it can change the texture and flavor balance.
FAQs
Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds are excellent alternatives that offer a slightly different but equally delightful crunch and flavor. Just keep the nuts roughly chopped for texture.
Is it possible to use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries tend to be much tarter and contain more moisture, which may affect the texture of the cheese log. If using fresh, consider cooking them slightly with sugar to soften and sweeten before adding.
How long does the cheese log last once prepared?
When properly stored in the refrigerator, this cheese log stays fresh for up to 5 days, making it an excellent make-ahead appetizer option for gatherings.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the cream cheese and cheddar with your favorite plant-based cheese alternatives. Be sure to check labels for flavor and texture compatibility to maintain the delicious balance.
What are the best crackers to serve with the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe?
Opt for lightly salted or plain crackers that won’t overpower the cheese, such as water crackers, multigrain crisps, or simple buttery shortbread-style crackers. They complement the flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe that brings warmth and festive cheer to any occasion. Its combination of creamy cheese, crunchy pecans, and sweet cranberries creates an irresistible taste adventure every time. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be delighted at how simple, yet impressive, it is to make. Your friends and family will surely be asking for seconds!
Print
Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is a delightful and festive appetizer combining creamy cheddar and cream cheese with sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and fresh chives. Perfect for holiday gatherings or casual entertaining, this no-cook cheese log is easy to prepare and offers a pleasing combination of textures and flavors that pairs wonderfully with your favorite crackers.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
Other Equipment
- Small mixing bowl
- Large mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Cling film
- Sharp knife
- Chopping board
- Cheese grater
Instructions
- Combine pecans, cranberries, and chives. In a small mixing bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, dried cranberries, and fresh chives until evenly distributed to create your coating mixture.
- Mix cheeses and half of the pecan mixture. In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with the grated cheddar cheese using a spatula until smooth. Then stir in half of the pecan, cranberry, and chive mixture until incorporated thoroughly.
- Form and chill the cheese log. Transfer the cheese mixture onto a sheet of cling film. Shape it carefully into a log using your hands or the spatula. Wrap the log tightly with the cling film and place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour to firm up and allow flavors to meld.
- Coat the chilled cheese log. Once the log is firm and chilled, unwrap it carefully. Spread the remaining pecan mixture evenly on a chopping board and roll the cheese log over the mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coat around the entire surface.
- Slice and serve. Using a sharp knife, slice the coated cheese log into desired serving-sized pieces. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately with your favorite crackers or bread for an elegant appetizer.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to ensure smooth mixing with the cheddar.
- For best flavor, use fresh cranberries and toast the pecans lightly if desired to enhance their aroma.
- Can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored tightly wrapped in the refrigerator.
- Serve chilled but allow to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
- Variations can include adding a splash of maple syrup to the cheese mixture for a touch of sweetness.
