Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the joy of appetizers! There’s something so delightful about gathering with friends and family over a spread of tasty bites, and my Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is always a hit! It’s creamy, savory, and just the right amount of sweet from those juicy cranberries. Trust me, it’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re throwing a holiday party, a casual get-together, or just want to elevate your game night snacks. I love how easy it is to whip up, and it looks so fancy when you serve it with a platter of crunchy crackers. Everyone will be reaching for seconds—and maybe even thirds! So, let’s dive into making this delicious cheese log that’s sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients List

8 oz cream cheese, softened (make sure it’s nice and creamy for easy mixing)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (the sharper, the better for that punch of flavor!)
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped (these little gems add a lovely sweetness)
1/2 cup pecans, chopped (I love the crunch they bring—just delightful!)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (for that savory kick)
1/4 teaspoon onion powder (adds depth without being overpowering)
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (for a pop of color and freshness)

How to Prepare the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Making my Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is super simple and downright fun! I promise you won’t need any fancy equipment—just a mixing bowl and a bit of elbow grease. Let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, grab a mixing bowl and add the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This step is crucial—make sure your cream cheese is really soft for easy mixing; you don’t want any lumps!
Next, toss in the chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans, garlic powder, onion powder, and fresh parsley. Wow, the colors are so beautiful already! Mix everything together until it’s well combined. I like to use a fork or a spatula for this—just keep mixing until you can’t see any separate ingredients.
Now comes the fun part! Shape the mixture into a log. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; rustic is charming too! Just roll it gently between your hands to get that nice log shape.
Wrap your cheese log tightly in plastic wrap. This helps keep all those delicious flavors in while it chills. Pop it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours—overnight is even better if you can wait!
When you’re ready to serve, unwrap it and place it on a pretty serving platter. Grab your favorite crackers, and watch everyone dig in. Trust me, it’ll disappear fast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for last-minute gatherings!
Delicious flavor combinations of creamy cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans.
Vegetarian-friendly, making it an excellent choice for all your guests.
Can be made ahead of time, allowing for stress-free entertaining.
Versatile; serve it as a snack, appetizer, or even as part of a charcuterie board.
Always a crowd-pleaser—watch your guests come back for seconds!
Simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.
Beautifully presented, adding a touch of elegance to any table.

Tips for Success

Let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log turns out absolutely perfect! First off, don’t skimp on the chilling time. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting it chill for at least 2 hours really allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you can manage to wait overnight, you’ll be rewarded with even more intense flavors!

Also, don’t be afraid to play around with the ingredients! While I adore the combination of cranberries and pecans, you could swap in walnuts or even almonds for a different crunch. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some fresh herbs like chives or dill for a unique twist!

Make sure your cream cheese is super soft before mixing—this will help avoid any lumps and create that smooth, creamy texture we all love. And lastly, if you want to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture for a delightful kick!

Variations on the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

One of the best things about my Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to keep it exciting and cater to different tastes. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Nutty Alternatives: If you want to mix it up, try using different nuts! Walnuts give a rich, earthy flavor, while sliced almonds add a delightful crunch. You could even go for pistachios for a pop of color and a unique twist!
Herb-Infused: Fresh herbs can elevate the taste! Swap the parsley for chopped chives for a mild onion flavor or add fresh dill for a refreshing kick. Basil is another great option for a more aromatic experience.
Cheese Combo: Experiment with the cheese! Adding a bit of crumbled feta can give a tangy flavor, or you could mix in some goat cheese for a creamy, rich texture. Just keep the cream cheese base for that lovely spreadable consistency!
Fruit Fusion: Dried fruits can change the whole vibe! Try using chopped apricots or figs instead of cranberries for a different sweetness. You could even add a splash of orange zest for a bright citrus note!
Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. This adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cranberries!
Sweet and Savory: For a sweeter version, roll the cheese log in a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon before serving, or drizzle some honey over the top just before you dig in. It’s a delightful contrast that’s sure to impress!

These variations are not only fun but also allow you to tailor the cheese log to your audience. So go ahead, get creative, and let your taste buds lead the way! You’ll be amazed at how one simple recipe can transform into so many delicious options.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is super easy, and it keeps well, which is fantastic if you have leftovers (though I doubt it will last long!). Once you’ve served your cheese log, any remaining portions should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. This helps keep all that creamy goodness fresh!

In the refrigerator, it will last for about 5 days, but trust me, you’ll want to enjoy it within the first couple of days for the best flavor and texture. If you find yourself with a whole log left, you can also freeze it! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

When you’re ready to serve a chilled cheese log, just take it out of the fridge (or freezer) and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before slicing. This allows it to soften up just a bit, making it even easier to spread on your favorite crackers. No reheating is needed—just slice, serve, and enjoy the delightful flavors! And remember, it’s all about that creamy texture, so the softer, the better!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s chat about the nutritional side of my Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log! This is just an estimate, but it gives you a good idea of what you’re munching on. For a serving size of 1 ounce, you can expect roughly:

Calories: 120
Fat: 10g (with about 5g saturated fat)
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 150mg
Fiber: 1g
Cholesterol: 20mg

These values can vary a bit based on your specific ingredients, especially if you choose low-fat cream cheese or switch up the nuts. But overall, it’s a tasty and satisfying appetizer that won’t break the calorie bank! Enjoy your delicious cheese log without any guilt—just remember to balance it out with some veggies or fruits on the side for a well-rounded snack!

FAQ Section

Can I make the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance is a great idea. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve!

What can I serve with the cheese log?
I love serving my Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log with an assortment of crackers, but it also pairs wonderfully with sliced baguette, fresh veggies, or even apple slices for a sweet crunch. Get creative!

How long does the cheese log last in the fridge?
If stored properly in plastic wrap or an airtight container, it’ll stay fresh for about 5 days. But trust me, it’s too good to last that long!

Can I freeze the cheese log?
Yes, you can! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then serve it at room temperature.

What can I substitute for cranberries?
If you’re not a fan of cranberries or just want to try something different, chopped dried apricots or figs work beautifully as alternatives. They’ll bring a different sweetness that’s just as delightful!

Is this recipe gluten-free?
The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log itself is gluten-free, but just be sure to check the crackers you serve it with. There are plenty of gluten-free options available that pair perfectly!

Can I add more spices to the cheese log?
Of course! If you want to amp up the flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or even some smoked paprika for a bit of warmth. Just remember to taste as you go!

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Indulge

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A savory cheese log with cranberries and pecans.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and cheddar cheese.
Add cranberries, pecans, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley.
Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into a log.
Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Unwrap and serve with crackers.

Notes

Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version.
Chill overnight for better flavor.
Try adding different nuts for variation.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 ounce
Calories: 120
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log, cheese log, appetizer, vegetarian cheese spread

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