Oh, let me tell you about my Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log! This delightful spread has become my go-to for gatherings and parties. Just picture it: friends mingling, laughter filling the air, and this beautiful cheese log sitting center stage on the appetizer table. The unique combination of creamy cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans is simply irresistible! Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up—just a little mixing, shaping, and chilling, and you’re ready to impress! Trust me, once you serve this at your next get-together, it’ll become the star of the show. Your guests will be raving about it long after the last bite!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create your delicious Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log. Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go for a smooth mixing experience!

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

(Tip: If you want to mix things up a bit, you can use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version, or try adding different nuts like walnuts or almonds for some variation!)

How to Prepare the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Making this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is as easy as it is rewarding! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious appetizer ready for your next gathering.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by taking your softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. In a mixing bowl, combine them together until they’re nicely blended and creamy—this is where the magic begins!
Next, it’s time to add in the fun stuff! Toss in the chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans, garlic powder, onion powder, and fresh parsley. Mix everything thoroughly until it’s all well combined and you can see those beautiful specks of color throughout.
Now comes the shaping! With clean hands, gather the mixture and form it into a log shape. Don’t stress if it’s not perfect; a little rustic charm adds character!
Wrap your cheese log tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring it’s sealed well to keep that freshness in. Pop it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours—this chilling time is essential for the flavors to meld together and for the log to firm up.
Once chilled, unwrap your cheese log and serve it up with your favorite crackers. Your guests will love it, and trust me, it won’t last long on the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute gatherings
Deliciously creamy with a delightful crunch from the pecans
Sweet and savory flavors that pair beautifully with crackers
Great for any occasion—parties, holidays, or casual get-togethers
Can be made ahead of time for stress-free entertaining

Tips for Success

To ensure your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log turns out perfectly, here are a few handy tips! First, make sure your cream cheese is fully softened—this will help it blend smoothly with the cheddar. When mixing in the cranberries and pecans, be gentle but thorough; you want an even distribution of flavors. When shaping the log, don’t worry about it being perfectly round; a bit of an irregular shape adds charm! Lastly, don’t skip the chilling time; that’s when the flavors really come together and the log firms up beautifully. Happy cooking!

Variations

There are so many fun ways to switch up your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log! For a different nutty flavor, try substituting pecans with walnuts or hazelnuts. You can also experiment with herbs—fresh dill or chives can add a lovely twist. Feeling adventurous? Mix in some spicy jalapeños for a kick or use dried cherries instead of cranberries for a unique sweetness. The base recipe is super flexible, so let your creativity shine!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log fresh and tasty, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay good for about 5 days, so you can enjoy the leftovers without worry! If you want to make it ahead of time, feel free to prepare it a couple of days in advance. Just remember, this cheese log is best served cold, so there’s no need for reheating—simply slice and serve it straight from the fridge with your favorite crackers. Enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick rundown of the estimated nutrition for each serving of the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients used, but this should give you a good idea:

Calories: 120
Fat: 10g
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 150mg

Remember, this is just an estimate, so feel free to adjust based on your choice of ingredients!

FAQ Section

Can I make the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it a day or two in advance. The flavors really develop and deepen when it sits in the fridge for a bit. Just wrap it tightly and keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve!

What can I serve with the cheese log?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love pairing it with a variety of crackers—everything from buttery to whole grain. Fresh veggies like celery and bell peppers are also fantastic for dipping. You could even spread it on a slice of baguette for a more substantial appetizer.

How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure it’s wrapped well or in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Can I freeze the cheese log?
Yes, you can! 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. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

What if I don’t have pecans?
No worries! You can substitute them with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios for a different flavor and crunch. The base recipe is super adaptable, so feel free to get creative!

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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Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log: 5 Star Appetizer Reveal