Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

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Introduction

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Logis the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and sweet flavors that makes for an irresistible appetizer. The rich cream cheese and tangy goat cheese create a smooth, indulgent base, while the sweet-tart cranberries and crunchy pecans add texture and a burst of flavor. This festive cheese log is an absolute crowd-pleaser and ideal for holiday gatherings, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it was passed down from my grandmother, and has been a staple at every family holiday celebration. The combination of cream cheese and goat cheese creates a velvety spread that perfectly complements the bright, pop of cranberries. The pecans add a satisfying crunch, making every bite a delightful experience.

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is perfect for serving alongside crackers, fresh bread, or even apple slices. The savory flavors paired with the sweetness of the cranberries give a balanced taste that works well with a variety of accompaniments. It’s an ideal appetizer for fall and winter gatherings, or any time you want to elevate your spread with a touch of elegance. This simple yet impressive cheese log is sure to be a hit and will have everyone reaching for more.

Perfect for:

• Holiday parties
• Family gatherings
• Potlucks
• New Year’s Eve celebrations
• Cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log will become your go-to appetizer:

• Festive and Flavorful: The bright red cranberries add a pop of color and a touch of tartness, making this cheese log as visually appealing as it is delicious.
• Creamy and Savory: The blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and other savory ingredients creates a smooth and flavorful base that is complemented by the crunch of pecans.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This cheese log can be prepared in advance and chilled overnight, making it a great option for busy holiday hosts.
• Easy to Serve: Simply roll it into a log and serve it with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables for an effortless appetizer that will impress your guests.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can add your own twist by incorporating different herbs or nuts to suit your taste preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour (plus chilling time)
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Chilling Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 10-12 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
• ½ cup pecans, chopped
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Crackers or fresh bread, for serving

Ingredient Highlights

• Cream Cheese: This creamy base gives the cheese log its smooth and spreadable texture, making it the perfect foundation for the other ingredients.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds a rich, tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the cranberries and the crunch of the pecans.
• Cranberries: The tartness and bright red color of cranberries provide both flavor and visual appeal, making this cheese log a festive treat.
• Pecans: These provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of the cheese.
• Honey: A touch of honey adds sweetness that balances the tart cranberries and enhances the overall flavor profile of the cheese log.

Step-by-Step

Instructions

Here’s how to make Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log:

Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

1. Combine Cream Cheese and Cheddar: In a large bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and grated sharp cheddar until smooth and well combined.
2. Add the Seasonings: Stir in the honey, orange zest, salt, and black pepper until fully incorporated.
3. Mix in Cranberries and Parsley: Gently fold in the chopped cranberries and parsley (if using), making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Form the Cheese Log:

4. Shape the Mixture: Use your hands or a spatula to shape the cheese mixture into a log shape on a large piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
5. Chill the Cheese Log: Cover the log with the plastic wrap or parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 40 minutes, or until firm.

Coat with Pecans:

6. Prepare the Pecans: Chop the pecans into small pieces and spread them out on a large plate or shallow dish.
7. Roll the Log in Pecans: Once the cheese log has chilled and firmed up, roll it in the chopped pecans, pressing gently to ensure they stick to the surface. Make sure the log is evenly coated with pecans on all sides.

Serve:

8. Serve the Cheese Log: Transfer the cheese log to a serving platter and serve with your choice of crackers, fresh bread, or sliced vegetables.

How to Serve

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is a versatile appetizer that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

• With Crackers: Serve with a selection of crispy crackers, such as water crackers or wheat crackers, to complement the creamy cheese log.
• With Fresh Bread: Offer slices of baguette or other fresh bread for a more substantial pairing.
• With Vegetables: Pair with fresh sliced vegetables like cucumber, celery, or bell peppers for a lighter option.
• On a Charcuterie Board: Include it as part of a larger charcuterie board, alongside meats, other cheeses, and fruits, for an impressive spread.
• As Part of a Holiday Spread: This cheese log makes a great addition to any holiday appetizer table, alongside dips, other cheese spreads, and festive treats.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is perfect every time:

• Chill Thoroughly: Make sure to chill the cheese log for at least 40 minutes to firm it up before rolling it in the pecans. This will make it easier to shape and handle.
• Use Fresh Cranberries: Fresh cranberries will provide the best flavor and texture for this recipe, though you can use dried cranberries if preferred. Just chop them finely before adding them to the cheese mixture.
• Customize the Nuts: If you prefer a different nut, you can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor and texture.
• Add Fresh Herbs: If you like, you can add a tablespoon of fresh rosemary or thyme to the cheese mixture for a savory herb flavor that complements the cranberries and pecans.
• Make it Sweeter: For a sweeter version, you can add more honey to taste or drizzle a bit of honey on top before serving.

Recipe Variations

Here are 5 variations you can try for Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log:

• Spicy Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
• Maple Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log: Swap the honey for maple syrup for a more robust, maple-flavored cheese log.
• Apple-Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log: Add finely chopped apples to the cheese mixture for an extra burst of freshness and sweetness.
• Cranberry-Almond Cheese Log: Substitute pecans with sliced almonds for a different nutty flavor and texture.
• Bacon-Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log: Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the cheese mixture for a savory, smoky flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: If you have leftovers or want to make this cheese log in advance, you can freeze the log before coating it with pecans. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator and then roll in the pecans.
• Storage: Store leftover cheese log in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the pecans begin to soften, it’s best to serve the cheese log within a day or two.

Special Equipment

• Electric Mixer: While not necessary, an electric mixer can help you combine the cream cheese and cheddar quickly and evenly.
• Food Processor: A food processor can be useful for chopping the cranberries and pecans finely and evenly.
• Plastic Wrap or Parchment Paper: Use this to help shape the cheese log and make it easy to roll it in the pecans.
• Serving Platter: A decorative platter or board is perfect for serving the cheese log and adding some visual appeal to your appetizer spread.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
   Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese, though the texture may be slightly different. The full-fat version will give the cheese log a richer, creamier consistency.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the cheese log up to 24 hours in advance. Just make sure to chill it thoroughly and coat it with pecans before serving.
3. Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
   Yes, you can use dried cranberries. Just chop them into smaller pieces to ensure they blend well into the cheese mixture.
4. Can I make this cheese log without the pecans?
   Yes, you can skip the pecans if you prefer, or substitute them with another nut, such as almonds or walnuts.
5. Can I serve this cheese log at room temperature?
   It’s best served chilled, but you can let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier spreading.

Conclusion

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is a delightful appetizer that effortlessly blends savory, sweet, and nutty flavors into one irresistible bite. The rich cream cheese base is beautifully complemented by the tartness of cranberries and the crunch of toasted pecans, creating a harmonious contrast of textures and tastes in every mouthful.

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and versatility. It can be served as a crowd-pleasing centerpiece at your next gathering or as a refined snack to enjoy with a glass of wine. The balance of flavors makes it a perfect fit for holiday celebrations, casual get-togethers, or even as a sophisticated addition to a cheese board.

Whether you make it ahead of time or whip it up last minute, the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe. I can’t wait for you to try this savory-sweet creation! Don’t forget to share your version on social media—I love seeing your unique twists! Enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite!