Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe for Gatherings

Right now, my favorite cranberry pecan cheese log recipe promises pure holiday magic for any gathering.

Cold winter nights call for something truly delectable and simple to prepare.

Creamy cheese blends beautifully with tart cranberries and crunchy pecans in this irresistible appetizer.

Unexpected guests will adore the elegant presentation and rich flavor profile.

Textures dance across your palate with each spectacular bite.

Seasonal ingredients combine to create a memorable starter that feels both sophisticated and comforting.

Let’s make something extraordinary that will wow everyone at the table.

Why Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Brings a Festive Touch

• Crowd-Pleasing Party Snack: Packed with festive flavors of cranberries and pecans, this cheese log delivers a delicious combination that guests will love at holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare this appetizer a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and saving precious time during party preparation while ensuring a stress-free entertaining experience.
• Versatile Serving Option: Easily adaptable to different occasions, from elegant dinner parties to casual game nights, this cheese log pairs wonderfully with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetable sticks.

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log – What Goes In

• Cream Cheese: Soft, creamy base that provides smooth texture and rich flavor, best when at room temperature.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheese that adds depth and tanginess, shredded for easy mixing.

• Pecans, Dried Cranberries: Crunchy nuts and sweet-tart berries that create a delightful coating and interior texture, chopped for even distribution.
• Fresh Chives: Mild onion-like herb that brings a subtle, fresh flavor to the cheese mixture.

• Cling Film: Helps shape and wrap the cheese log neatly, ensures easy handling and refrigeration.
• Crackers: Serving accompaniment for perfect appetizer presentation, provides a crisp contrast to the creamy cheese log.

How to Shape a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Step 1: Prepare Nutty Cranberry Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine finely chopped pecans, vibrant dried cranberries, and freshly snipped chives.

This colorful blend will create an irresistible coating for your cheese log.

Set the mixture aside while you prepare the cheese base.

Step 2: Blend Creamy Cheese Goodness

Grab a large mixing bowl and add softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar.

Mix the cheeses until they become smooth and well-incorporated.

Fold in half of the prepared pecan-cranberry mixture, stirring until evenly distributed throughout the cheese.

Step 3: Shape Cheese Masterpiece

Spread a sheet of plastic wrap on your countertop.

Carefully transfer the cheese mixture onto the wrap.

Using your hands, gently shape the mixture into a smooth, elongated log.

Wrap the log tightly in the plastic wrap, ensuring a snug seal.

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the log to firm up.

Step 4: Create Crunchy Exterior

Remove the chilled cheese log from the refrigerator and unwrap it from the plastic.

Spread the remaining pecan-cranberry mixture on a clean cutting board.

Carefully roll the cheese log across the mixture, pressing gently to ensure the nuts and cranberries create a full, even coating.

Step 5: Present and Enjoy

Transfer your beautifully crafted cheese log to a serving platter.

Accompany with an assortment of crisp crackers or crusty bread.

This appetizer is perfect for gatherings, holiday parties, or a luxurious snack that will impress any crowd.

Expert Tips for a Perfect Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

• Let cream cheese and cheddar sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing to ensure smooth, easy blending without lumps.
• Use parchment paper or plastic wrap when forming the log to prevent sticking and achieve a more uniform, professional appearance.
• Toast pecans lightly before chopping to release their natural oils and create a richer, more complex nutty taste.
• Swap regular cheese for low-fat or dairy-free alternatives to accommodate different dietary preferences while maintaining the recipe's delicious essence.
• Prepare the cheese log up to 2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator, allowing flavors to meld and develop for an even more delectable appetizer.

Save Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log for Later

• Wrap the cheese log tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep the log away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption.
• Carefully place the cheese log in a freezer-safe container or wrapped in plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Allow the cheese log to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften and enhance its flavors. Gently reshape if needed and sprinkle extra pecans if the coating looks dry.
• Refresh the exterior by rolling in additional chopped pecans and cranberries just before serving to restore its appetizing appearance and crunch.

What to Pair with a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

• Pair Perfectly with Crisp White Wines: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the tangy cheese and nutty pecans, cutting through the richness with their bright, zesty profiles.
• Matchmake with Artisan Crackers: Select hearty whole grain or seeded crackers that provide a crunchy texture and earthy undertones, enhancing the cheese log's complex flavors.
• Create Charcuterie Board Magic: Add thin slices of prosciutto or salami alongside the cheese log to introduce a salty, savory element that balances the creamy cheese and sweet cranberries.
• Boost with Sparkling Accompaniments: Prosecco or champagne add effervescence and cleanse the palate between bites, making each taste of the cheese log feel fresh and exciting.

Cheese Log Fruit and Nut Combos

• Vegan Nut Cheese Log: Replace cream cheese and cheddar with cashew-based cheese, using nutritional yeast for flavor and plant-based alternatives like almond or macadamia nuts instead of pecans.
• Herb Garden Cheese Log: Swap dried cranberries with fresh chopped herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley, creating a more savory Mediterranean-inspired version.
• Gluten-Free Party Starter: Use gluten-free crackers for serving and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, making this recipe safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
• Low-Fat Wellness Version: Substitute full-fat cheeses with reduced-fat cream cheese and part-skim cheddar, reducing overall calorie content while maintaining rich flavor profile.

FAQs

• Are pecans and cranberries necessary for this recipe?

Yes, they are key ingredients that provide texture, flavor, and visual appeal to the cheese log. The chopped pecans and dried cranberries create a delicious nutty and sweet crunch.

• Can I use different types of cheese?

While the recipe calls for cream cheese and cheddar, you can experiment with other soft and hard cheese combinations like goat cheese, monterey jack, or gruyere for varied flavor profiles.

• How long can I prepare this cheese log in advance?

You can make the cheese log up to 2-3 days before serving. Keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator and coat with the pecan mixture just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.

• What are some good crackers or accompaniments to serve with this cheese log?

Classic options include water crackers, wheat thins, butter crackers, or crostini. You can also serve with fresh apple slices or pear wedges for additional flavor contrast.

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe

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4.6 from 33 reviews

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

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Description

Creamy cranberry pecan cheese log delivers festive elegance with Mediterranean-inspired flair. Smooth cream cheese blends with tart cranberries and crunchy pecans, creating a perfect holiday appetizer for delightful gatherings.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded cheddar cheese

Nuts and Dried Fruits:

• 1/2 cup (60 grams) pecans (chopped)
• 1/2 cup (60 grams) dried cranberries (chopped)

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) fresh chives (chopped)

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Instructions

1. Craft a vibrant mixture of finely chopped pecans, tangy dried cranberries, and delicate fresh chives in a mixing bowl, setting this colorful blend aside for later use.
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese with sharp cheddar until smooth and uniform, then gently fold in half of the prepared pecan mixture, ensuring even distribution.
3. Position a sheet of plastic wrap on a clean work surface and carefully transfer the cheese blend onto it, using gentle hands to form an elegant cylindrical shape, then wrap tightly and refrigerate for a minimum of one hour to firm and meld flavors.
4. Once chilled, unwrap the log and place it on a flat surface scattered with the remaining pecan mixture, carefully rolling to create a complete, textured exterior that clings perfectly to the creamy base.
5. Artfully transfer the finished cheese log to a decorative serving platter, accompanied by an assortment of crisp crackers, ready to delight guests with its rustic, gourmet appearance and rich, complex flavors.

Notes

• Chill the cream cheese beforehand to ensure easier mixing and a smoother texture without lumps.
• Toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet for enhanced nutty flavor and extra crunch before combining with other ingredients.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers or vegetable sticks like cucumber and carrots for serving.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations like goat cheese or blue cheese for unique flavor profiles that complement the cranberry and pecan mixture.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg