Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe for Holiday Joy

Crafting a cranberry pecan cheese log that instantly sparks conversation at any gathering.

This festive appetizer blends creamy textures with unexpected crunch in every delightful bite.

Soft cream cheese provides the perfect canvas for tart cranberries and rich, toasted pecans.

Holiday or not, you can whip up this crowd-pleasing snack in mere minutes.

Sharp cheddar adds depth and complexity to the mix, creating an irresistible flavor profile.

The combination of sweet and savory elements makes this log a total game-changer for entertaining.

Trust me, guests will be asking for the recipe before the first platter is empty.

Why Everyone Likes Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

• Create a Flavor Explosion: This cheese log combines tangy cream cheese, sharp cheddar, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans for a taste sensation that dances across your palate.
• Wow Guests with Minimal Effort: The recipe is incredibly simple to prepare, requiring just a few minutes of mixing and shaping, yet delivers an impressive appetizer that looks professionally crafted.
• Texture Paradise: Experience a delightful contrast between the smooth, creamy cheese base and the crunchy, nutty exterior of chopped pecans and cranberries that adds exciting textural complexity.
• Perfect Party Pleaser: This versatile appetizer works beautifully for holiday gatherings, game nights, or casual get-togethers, offering a gourmet touch without complicated cooking techniques.

What You’ll Need For Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

• Cream Cheese: Soft and creamy foundation for the cheese log, best when at room temperature.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp flavor that adds depth and richness to the cheese mixture.

• Cranberries, Pecans: Provide sweet-tart crunch and nutty texture, chopped fine for better coating and distribution.

• Honey: Natural sweetener that balances the cheese's tanginess.
• Garlic Powder: Adds subtle savory depth to the cheese mixture.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances the sweetness.

• Cranberries, Pecans, Parsley: Create a festive and flavorful exterior coating, finely chopped for even coverage.

• Crackers, Pretzels, Sliced Bread: Classic vehicles for enjoying the cheese log.

• Plastic Wrap: Essential for shaping and chilling the cheese log.

Steps To Make Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Step 1: Create Creamy Cheese Blend

• Softened cream cheese
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Dried cranberries
• Chopped pecans
• Honey
• Garlic powder
• Salt

Stir everything until the mixture looks smooth and ingredients are perfectly distributed.

Step 2: Mold Delightful Log

Spread a piece of plastic wrap on your workspace. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the wrap and use your hands to shape it into an elegant cylindrical log. Wrap the plastic tightly around the log, smoothing out any bumpy surfaces. Slide the wrapped log into the refrigerator and let it chill for about an hour to become firm.

Step 3: Prepare Crunchy Coating

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

Step 4: Dress the Cheese Log

Remove the chilled log from the refrigerator. Carefully unwrap the plastic. Gently roll the log in the cranberry-pecan mixture, pressing softly to ensure the coating hugs the entire surface.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Move the decorated cheese log to a beautiful serving plate. Pair with crispy crackers, salty pretzels, or sliced artisan bread. Serve immediately or keep chilled until your guests arrive.

Helpful Tips For Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

• Soften Cheese Perfectly: Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing to ensure smooth, lump-free blending.
• Customize Flavor Boost: Experiment with different honey varieties like wildflower or clover to add unique taste dimensions to the cheese log.
• Create Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the cheese log up to 3 days in advance, storing wrapped tightly in the refrigerator for convenient entertaining.
• Modify for Dietary Needs: Swap regular cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives for a vegan-friendly version that maintains the same delicious texture.
• Enhance Coating Technique: Gently press coating ingredients to ensure they adhere completely, creating a beautiful and flavorful exterior for your cheese log.

How To Store And Serve Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

• Refrigerate: Wrap the cheese log tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Place the entire cheese log or individual portions in freezer-safe wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring complete coverage to prevent freezer burn.
• Thaw: Transfer frozen cheese log to the refrigerator overnight. Allow it to soften slightly at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to restore its creamy texture.
• Revive: If the log seems dry after storage, gently fold in a small amount of softened cream cheese or drizzle with honey to refresh its moisture and flavor.

Good Pairings With Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

• Pair with Zesty Wine: Grab a crisp, slightly sweet Riesling or Gewürztraminer that complements the tangy cranberries and rich pecans, balancing the creamy cheese with a bright, fruity undertone.
• Match with Rustic Bread Selection: Serve alongside artisan sourdough, whole grain crackers, or toasted baguette slices to provide delightful textural contrast and enhance the log's nutty, creamy flavors.
• Elevate with Sparkling Companions: Pour a chilled prosecco or champagne to cut through the cheese's richness and add a festive touch that highlights the dish's elegant, sophisticated profile.
• Enhance with Fruity Sidekicks: Add fresh apple slices, pear wedges, or dried fruit like apricots to introduce complementary sweet and tart notes that perfectly dance with the cheese log's complex flavor palette.

Fun Variations Of Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

• Zesty Mediterranean Blend: Swap cranberries and pecans with sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Add fresh oregano and a touch of olive oil for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Smoky Southwest Fusion: Replace honey with chipotle sauce, mix in roasted green chiles, and coat the log with crushed tortilla chips and smoked paprika. Serve with jalapeño cornbread for extra kick.
• Autumn Maple Harvest: Substitute honey with pure maple syrup, fold in diced apples, and use toasted walnuts instead of pecans. Roll the log in a mixture of cinnamon and chopped dried apple pieces for a seasonal touch.
• Herbed Garden Elegance: Incorporate fresh dill, chives, and thyme into the cheese mixture. Use a blend of goat cheese and cream cheese, then coat with finely chopped fresh herbs and cracked black pepper.

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Q&A

• What makes the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log special?

This appetizer combines sweet and savory flavors with creamy cheese, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes, making it ideal for gatherings and holiday parties.

• Can I make this recipe 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. Just roll in the coating right before serving to maintain the crispness of the nuts and cranberries.

• Are there any tips for getting the perfect log shape?

Use plastic wrap to help you roll the cheese mixture. Gently press and shape the mixture, creating an even cylindrical shape. Chilling the log helps it hold its form and makes it easier to coat with the cranberry-pecan mixture.

• What if I don't have fresh cranberries for the coating?

No worries! You can use dried cranberries or even substitute with other dried fruits like cherries. The key is to chop them finely so they stick well to the cheese log and create an attractive exterior.

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe

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4.8 from 19 reviews

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

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Description

Creamy cranberry pecan cheese log delivers festive flavors with tangy cream cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans. Elegant holiday appetizer perfect for gatherings, promising delightful textures you’ll savor from first bite to last.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Cheeses:

• 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (50 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Nuts and Fruits:

• ¼ cup (30 grams) dried cranberries, finely chopped
• ¼ cup (30 grams) chopped pecans
• ¼ cup (30 grams) dried cranberries, finely chopped (for coating)
• ¼ cup (30 grams) pecans, finely chopped (for coating)

Seasonings and Extras:

• 1 teaspoon honey
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for color)

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Instructions

1. Craft a creamy base by thoroughly blending softened cream cheese with shredded cheddar, ensuring a smooth, consistent texture that incorporates cranberries, pecans, honey, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
2. Transfer the mixed cheese blend onto a sheet of plastic wrap, using gentle hand motions to shape a compact cylindrical log approximately 6-8 inches in length.
3. Carefully wrap the log tightly in plastic, smoothing the surface to create an even shape, then refrigerate for a minimum of one hour to allow the mixture to solidify and develop robust flavors.
4. While the cheese log chills, prepare the exterior coating by finely chopping fresh cranberries, toasting pecans, and mincing parsley to create a vibrant, textured garnish.
5. Remove the chilled log from the refrigerator and delicately roll it through the prepared cranberry-pecan mixture, applying light pressure to ensure an even, adherent coating that completely encases the cheese cylinder.
6. Place the decorated cheese log on an elegant serving platter, accompanied by an assortment of crisp crackers, rustic pretzels, or thinly sliced artisan bread for guests to enjoy this delectable appetizer.

Notes

• Choose room temperature cream cheese for smoother mixing and easier blending of ingredients.
• Finely chop cranberries and pecans to create a more uniform and attractive coating that adheres better to the cheese log.
• Adjust honey quantity based on preferred sweetness level, using less for a more savory profile or more for a sweeter taste.
• Toast pecans lightly before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor and add extra depth to the cheese log’s overall taste.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 215
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg