Description

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Cream cheese and sharp white cheddar are blended with garlic and onion powders, then mixed with dried cranberries and crunchy pecans. Chilled into a firm log and rolled in more cranberries and pecans, it offers a delightful contrast of creamy, tangy, and nutty flavors. Serve with crackers or sliced baguette for an easy, make-ahead crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Mixture

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 ½ cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp black pepper

Add-ins

½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
½ cup pecans, finely chopped

For Coating & Garnish

Remaining ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
Remaining ½ cup pecans, finely chopped
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Crackers or sliced baguette for serving

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Instructions

Mix Cheese Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp white cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the blend is smooth and well incorporated.
Add Cranberries and Pecans: Stir in half of the chopped dried cranberries and half of the finely chopped pecans to the cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution.
Shape and Chill: Place the blended mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap and mold it into a log shape. Wrap it tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow it to firm up.
Prepare Coating: While the cheese log chills, mix the remaining chopped cranberries and pecans on a large plate, preparing the coating for the log.
Coat the Cheese Log: After chilling, carefully unwrap the cheese log and roll it in the cranberry-pecan mixture until it is fully coated. Press gently to help the coating adhere evenly.
Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the log for a festive touch. Serve the cheese log with crackers or sliced baguette and enjoy.

Notes

This cheese log can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and stored refrigerated to save time on event day.
For an extra festive flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or drizzle honey over the finished log before serving.
Toasting the pecans before chopping enhances their flavor and adds a toasty crunch.