Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log: 7 Delicious Variations

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Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is a delightful and festive appetizer that perfectly blends creamy cheese with sweet and tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and sharp cheddar. This easy-to-make dish is ideal for holiday gatherings, parties, or casual get-togethers. The beautiful presentation and rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests asking for the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is not just a treat for the taste buds; it brings numerous benefits to the table. Here’s why it stands out:

Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for last-minute gatherings.
Deliciously versatile; it can be served as a cheese log appetizer with cranberries or as a sweet and savory cheese log recipe.
Perfect for holiday parties, offering a festive touch to your appetizer spread.
Contains nutritious ingredients like pecans, which add healthy fats and crunch.
Can be made ahead of time, making your entertaining stress-free.
Offers a unique flavor profile with the combination of cheese, cranberries, and nuts.
Satisfies both sweet and savory cravings in one dish.
A gluten-free option when paired with the right accompaniments.

Ingredients for Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Gather these items:

250g / 9oz full fat Cream Cheese, softened
150g / 5.3oz Dried Cranberries, roughly diced
125g / 4.4oz Pecans, roughly diced
100g / 3.5oz Mature/Sharp Cheddar Cheese, grated
4 tablespoons finely diced Chives

How to Make Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Step-by-Step

Step 1: Ensure cream cheese is softened by leaving it at room temperature for about an hour. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the grated mature/sharp cheddar cheese. Mix gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until a relatively uniform base is formed.
Step 2: Add the roughly diced dried cranberries and roughly diced pecans to the cheese mixture. Gently fold these ingredients in with a spatula or your hands, being careful not to overmix, ensuring even distribution of cranberries and pecans.
Step 3: Incorporate the finely diced chives into the cheese, cranberry, and pecan mixture. Gently fold them in until evenly dispersed for a bright flavor and visual appeal.
Step 4: Lay out a piece of plastic wrap on a clean, flat surface. Spoon the entire mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap. Shape the mixture into a log using your hands, then carefully wrap the plastic wrap tightly around the log, tucking in the ends.
Step 5: Refrigerate the wrapped cheese log for at least 2-3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and the log to firm up for easy slicing.
Step 6: When ready to serve, unwrap the cheese log. Optionally, re-roll it in chopped pecans or a mix of chopped dried cranberries and chives. Slice into rounds using a sharp knife and serve with crackers, fresh fruit, or jam.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Keep these in mind:

Let the cheese log sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing for easier cutting.
This recipe can be made a day in advance, which enhances the flavors.
Consider using a mix of dried fruits and nuts for a unique twist.

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

When it comes to serving, this cheese log is incredibly versatile:

Pair it with an assortment of crackers for a classic cheese log appetizer.
Serve with fresh fruit like apple slices or grapes for a refreshing contrast.
Add a small bowl of jam or honey on the side to complement the flavors beautifully.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

To store your cheese log, simply keep it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. It can last for up to a week, making it a perfect make-ahead cranberry pecan cheese appetizer. When ready to serve, there’s no need to reheat; just slice and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log?

The secret lies in using high-quality cream cheese and letting the log chill for enough time. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the cheese log irresistible.

Can I make Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheese log can be prepared a day in advance. Just remember to keep it well-wrapped in the fridge to maintain freshness.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log?

Ensure your cream cheese is softened adequately for easy mixing. Avoid overmixing the ingredients to retain the texture of the cranberries and nuts.

Variations of Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Swap pecans for walnuts to create a Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log variation.
Add different herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
Mix in some spicy jalapeños for a savory cheese log with cranberries that packs a punch.
For a gluten-free cranberry pecan cheese spread, serve it with gluten-free crackers or veggies.

For more delicious recipes, check out our White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Recipe or try making Pumpkin Cookies Gluten-Free for a festive treat. You can also explore Creamy Pesto Spinach Gnocchi for a delightful main course.