Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is an easy, delightful appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. With just five simple ingredients, it brings together a wonderful blend of creamy and crunchy textures, making it a standout dish at parties. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a festive celebration, this cheese log is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only five ingredients, this recipe comes together in just 15 minutes.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of cream cheese, cranberries, and pecans creates a deliciously balanced taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with crackers, fruits, or veggies for various serving styles that suit any occasion.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and chill until you’re ready to serve, saving you time on the day of your event.
• Great for Sharing: This cheese log is perfect for gatherings, allowing guests to easily share and enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help you create this delicious treat with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Cling film
• Chopping board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining your ingredients effectively without making a mess.
• Spatula: A spatula helps in mixing the ingredients smoothly and transferring them into the cling film without sticking.
• Cling film: Using cling film allows you to mold the cheese log neatly while keeping it contained in the fridge.

Ingredients

This easy cheese log recipe requires just 5 ingredients! It’s the ultimate crowd pleaser and makes the perfect finger food at gatherings.

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

How to Make Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a small mixing bowl combine diced pecans, cranberries, and chives.

Step 2: Mix Cream Cheese and Cheddar

In a large mixing bowl, add cream cheese and cheddar. Use a spatula to combine these with HALF of the pecan mix. Reserve the remaining pecan mix for coating later.

Step 3: Shape the Log

Add the mixture onto a large sheet of cling film. Mold it into a log shape, using the cling film to tightly contain it. Chill in the fridge until ready to serve. Recommended resting time is at least one hour for optimal firmness.

Step 4: Coat with Pecan Mixture

When ready to serve, spread the reserved pecan mix on a chopping board. Unwrap the cheese log and coat all sides evenly with this mix.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your beautifully coated cranberry pecan cheese log on a board accompanied by crackers. Enjoy!

How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Serving a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is an excellent way to impress your guests at any gathering. This delightful finger food pairs well with various accompaniments, enhancing its flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Crackers

• Choose an assortment of crackers for a crunchy texture that complements the creamy cheese log.

On a Cheese Platter

• Add the cheese log to a larger cheese platter with other cheeses, fruits, and nuts for an elegant presentation.

With Fresh Fruits

• Serve alongside fresh fruits like apple slices or grapes to balance the richness of the cheese.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Include the cheese log on a charcuterie board with cured meats (substituting pork options), pickles, and olives for an enticing spread.

With Vegetable Crudités

• Pair with colorful vegetable sticks such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a fresh and crunchy contrast.

On Toasted Baguette Slices

• Spread the cheese log onto toasted baguette slices, adding a drizzle of honey for sweetness.

How to Perfect Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Creating the ideal Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is simple with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow the cream cheese and cheddar to reach room temperature before mixing for easier blending.

• Chill Properly: Ensure the cheese log is well-chilled before serving. This helps maintain its shape and enhances its flavor.

• Customize Your Nuts: Experiment with different nuts such as walnuts or almonds if you’re looking for a unique twist.

• Add Spices: Incorporate spices like garlic powder or paprika into the cream cheese mixture for added depth of flavor.

• Garnish Creatively: Consider garnishing with extra dried cranberries or chopped chives on top for a visually appealing presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Pairing side dishes with your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log can elevate your snack experience. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Vegetable Chips: Crunchy vegetable chips provide a healthy alternative to regular chips while adding vibrant colors.

2. Hummus Platter: A variety of hummus flavors can complement the cheese log’s taste and offer a creamy dip option.

3. Olive Tapenade: This savory spread offers bold flavors that pair well with the sweetness of cranberries in the cheese log.

4. Stuffed Mini Peppers: Mini sweet peppers stuffed with cream cheese or ricotta bring freshness and color to your serving board.

5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus spears add an elegant touch and bring out the flavors of the cheese log.

6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins can add a comforting touch alongside your cheese log while balancing savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log turns out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Skipping the chilling time: Not letting the cheese log chill can result in a soft texture that is hard to slice. Always refrigerate for at least an hour.
• Using unchopped ingredients: Large pieces of cranberries or nuts can make it difficult to shape the log properly. Dice them finely for even consistency.
• Not saving enough pecan mix: Failing to reserve some pecan mixture for coating can leave your cheese log looking bare. Remember to set aside half of the mixture beforehand.
• Overmixing the cheeses: Mixing the cream cheese and cheddar too much can result in a rubbery texture. Combine just until blended for the best results.
• Ignoring flavor balance: Using too many sweet cranberries without balancing with savory elements like chives can impact taste. Ensure you maintain a good flavor balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap if not using a container.

Freezing Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Wrap in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Microwave on low power for 30-second intervals until warmed, being careful not to melt completely.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick pan over low heat, flipping gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log that may help you prepare this delightful dish.

Can I customize my Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log?

Yes! Feel free to add different herbs or substitute nuts based on your preference, such as walnuts or almonds.

What can I serve with a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log?

This cheese log pairs wonderfully with crackers, breadsticks, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.

How long does a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log last?

In the refrigerator, it lasts up to 5 days when stored properly. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

Is it necessary to use full-fat cream cheese?

While full-fat cream cheese provides a richer flavor and texture, you can substitute with reduced-fat options if desired.

Final Thoughts

The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is not only easy to make but also offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that is sure to please any crowd. Its versatility allows for customization with various herbs and nuts, making it perfect for any gathering. Try it out and impress your guests with this delicious finger food!