Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy appetizer that will impress your guests, you’ve come to the right place! This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is one of my all-time favorites. It’s creamy, tangy, and oh-so-flavorful, making it the perfect addition to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just enjoying a cozy night in with family, this cheese log is sure to be a hit.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is — just five ingredients! It comes together quickly, so it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it looks stunning on a platter, making it a great centerpiece for your snacks!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With only five ingredients, this cheese log comes together in just 15 minutes!
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of creamy cheese with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans creates a flavor explosion everyone will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, this appetizer fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance and refrigerate, so you can spend more time enjoying the party.
• Fun to Serve: Pair it with crackers and watch everyone dig in — it’s always a favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this delightful cheese log. Each component adds its own unique flavor and texture, creating a harmonious blend that’s hard to resist!

For the Cheese Log

• 250g / 9oz full fat Cream Cheese
• 150g / 5.3oz Dried Cranberries (roughly diced)
• 125g / 4.4oz Pecans (roughly diced)
• 100g / 3.5oz Mature/Sharp Cheddar Cheese (grated)
• 1/4 cup / 4 tbsp finely diced Chives

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences. Here are some fun variations:

• Add Some Spice: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Change the Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer different flavors or textures.
• Go Sweet: Incorporate some honey or maple syrup into the mixture for added sweetness.
• Herb It Up: Use fresh herbs like parsley or dill instead of chives for an aromatic twist.

How to Make Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a small mixing bowl, combine the diced pecans, cranberries, and chives. This step not only mixes these flavorful ingredients but also creates that lovely crunch and brightness that complements the creamy cheese.

Step 2: Mix the Cheeses

In a large mixing bowl, add the cream cheese and grated cheddar. Using a spatula, gently mix these two until they’re well combined. Then fold in half of your pecan mixture. This ensures each bite has that wonderful mix of flavors!

Step 3: Shape Your Cheese Log

Take your delicious mixture and place it onto a large sheet of cling film. Mold it into a log shape while wrapping it tightly with the film. This helps maintain its shape as it chills in the fridge — aim for at least an hour to let those flavors meld.

Step 4: Coat with Pecan Mixture

When you’re ready to serve, spread out the remaining pecan mixture on a chopping board. Unwrap your chilled cheese log and roll it in this nutty blend until fully coated. This not only makes it look beautiful but also adds an extra crunch!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Present your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log on a serving board alongside an assortment of crackers. Watch as everyone digs in — trust me, they won’t be able to resist! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Creating the perfect Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is simple with a few handy tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time!

• Use room temperature cream cheese – This makes it easier to blend with the other ingredients, resulting in a smoother texture and better flavor.

• Chill the log thoroughly – Allowing the cheese log to chill for at least an hour helps it firm up, making it easier to slice and serve while enhancing the flavors as they meld together.

• Experiment with mix-ins – Feel free to add herbs like rosemary or thyme, or swap out pecans for walnuts. Customizing your cheese log can create unique flavor profiles that cater to your taste preferences.

• Make it ahead of time – This dish can be made a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in cling film and store it in the refrigerator. It allows the flavors to deepen and saves you time on the day of your gathering.

• Use a variety of crackers – Providing different types of crackers can enhance the experience. Consider including whole grain, gluten-free, and flavored options for added texture and flavor variety.

How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Serving your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log beautifully can enhance its appeal at any gathering! Here are some fun ideas for presentation that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh chives or parsley sprigs – A sprinkle of fresh herbs not only adds a pop of color but also complements the flavors beautifully.

• Edible flowers – These can add an elegant touch and make your cheese log visually stunning on any serving platter.

Side Dishes

• Assorted Crackers – A variety of crackers such as water crackers, whole grain, and herb-flavored options create textural contrast and provide delightful pairings with the cheese log.

• Vegetable Crudités – Fresh veggies like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips add crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the cheese log.

• Fruit Slices – Offering fruits like apple wedges or pear slices provides a sweet counterpoint to the savory flavors, making each bite more interesting.

• Hummus or Dip Options – Pairing with a dish of hummus or another dip allows guests to explore additional flavors while enjoying their cheese log experience.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log will not only taste amazing but also look fabulous on any table! Enjoy sharing this delightful treat with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on the day of your gathering.

Storing Leftovers

• Wrap any leftover cheese log tightly in cling film or store it in an airtight container.
• Keep it refrigerated for up to 5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cheese log tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember to label it with the date!

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this cheese log; it’s best served cold or at room temperature.
• Simply take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before serving for perfect texture.

FAQs

Have questions about making this delightful Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log? Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans in my Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just chop them roughly like you would the pecans.

How long can I store my Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log in the fridge?

Your cheese log will stay fresh for about 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container or wrapped tightly.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can use a plant-based cream cheese alternative and dairy-free cheddar. The rest of the ingredients remain unchanged!

Can I add more ingredients to my cheese log?

Certainly! You can experiment by adding herbs like dill or spices such as paprika for an extra flavor kick.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log as delightful as I do! It’s a simple yet impressive appetizer that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me! Happy cooking!