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
Scale
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.
