Cranberry, Pecan and Cheese Log – Festive, Tangy & Irresistible

A cranberry, pecan, and cheese log is a beautifully balanced, crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings together sweet, salty, crunchy, and creamy in one elegant bite. It’s a go-to for holiday entertaining, wine nights, or anytime you want a make-ahead snack that looks stunning and tastes even better.

Soft cheese like goat cheese or cream cheese forms the creamy base, while dried cranberries add sweetness and a pop of color. Toasted pecans give rich crunch, and a touch of fresh herbs or spices brings it all together. Rolled into a log and coated in a jewel-toned outer layer of nuts and fruit, this appetizer feels fancy with almost no effort.

Ingredients Overview

Soft Cheese Base

• Goat cheese offers tang and creaminess, perfect for balancing the sweet cranberries.

• Cream cheese makes it smoother and more spreadable.

• Use a combination (half and half) for the ideal texture and mild tang.

Dried Cranberries

• Sweet and slightly tart, they bring chew and vibrant color.

• Chop them finely so they distribute evenly throughout and stick well to the coating.

Toasted Pecans

• Toasting enhances flavor and crunch.

• Chop medium-fine — not too powdery, but small enough to coat the cheese easily.

Substitutions: Walnuts, almonds, or pistachios can be used.

Fresh Herbs (Optional)

• Chives or rosemary add a savory counterpoint to the sweetness.

• Fold into the cheese or mix with the coating for an herby finish.

Optional Add-Ins

• Honey or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness.

• Crumbled blue cheese or sharp cheddar for complexity.

• Cayenne or smoked paprika for subtle heat.

Seasoning

• Just a touch of salt and pepper is all you need.

• Let the cheese and cranberries shine.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Toast the Pecans

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Spread ¾ cup pecans on a baking sheet.

• Toast for 6–8 minutes, stirring halfway, until fragrant and slightly darkened.

• Let cool completely, then chop.

2. Mix the Cheese Base

In a bowl, combine:

• 8 oz goat cheese

• 4 oz cream cheese

• ¼ tsp salt

• Black pepper to taste

• Optional: 1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp chopped herbs

Mix until smooth and fluffy using a hand mixer or fork.

Fold in:

• ⅓ cup finely chopped dried cranberries

• ¼ cup of the toasted pecans

Chill the mixture for 15–30 minutes to firm up.

3. Shape the Cheese Log

• Spoon the chilled cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap.

• Use the wrap to roll and shape it into a log (about 6–7 inches long).

• Twist the ends of the wrap and refrigerate for another 30 minutes, or until firm.

4. Prepare the Coating

On a large plate, mix:

• ⅓ cup chopped dried cranberries

• ½ cup chopped toasted pecans

• Optional: 1 tbsp chopped chives or rosemary

Unwrap the cheese log and gently roll it in the coating until fully covered.

Tip: Press gently so the coating adheres well.

5. Chill or Serve

• Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.

• Bring to room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for best spreadability.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Tips for Best Results

• Let the cheese soften before mixing — it blends smoother.

• Use gloves or lightly oiled hands when rolling to prevent sticking.

• Chill between each step to help the log hold its shape.

Variations

• Holiday version: Add orange zest and cinnamon to the cheese for a festive twist.

• Savory version: Use roasted garlic and sun-dried tomatoes instead of cranberries.

• Mini cheese balls: Roll into 1-inch balls and coat individually for party platters.

Substitutions

• Goat cheese alternatives: Use all cream cheese for a milder taste or a mix of mascarpone and cheddar for richness.

• Nut-free option: Use roasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for crunch.

• Dairy-free version: Use plant-based cream cheese and goat-style alternatives.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This cheese log is perfect for:

• Holiday spreads (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s)

• Wine nights or cocktail parties

• Brunch boards with fruit and pastries

• Housewarmings or potlucks

Pair with:

• Crackers or toasted baguette slices

• Apple or pear slices for a sweet-savory combo

• Sparkling wine, rosé, or a crisp white

• Fresh grapes, olives, or fig jam on the side

Garnish with a sprig of rosemary or drizzle of honey just before serving for extra flair.

Nutritional & Health Notes

This appetizer is:

• Protein-rich from cheese and nuts

• Lower in sugar than many sweet holiday options

• Easily gluten-free if served with GF crackers or veggies

Estimated per 1 oz slice (with coating):

• Calories: ~120

• Protein: ~4g

• Carbs: ~5g

• Fat: ~9g

• Sugar: ~3g

• Fiber: 1g

To reduce calories or fat, use light cream cheese and skip added sweeteners.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this cheese log ahead of time?

A: Yes. Make it up to 3 days in advance. Store tightly wrapped in the fridge. Add the coating just before serving for best texture.

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Q2: Can I freeze the cheese log?

A: It’s not recommended — the texture of the cheese and nuts may change. Store in the fridge instead for up to 4 days.

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Q3: What crackers go best with this?

A: Seeded crackers, rosemary crisps, water crackers, or crusty baguette slices all pair well. For gluten-free options, use rice crackers or veggie sticks.

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Q4: Can I make this nut-free?

A: Yes. Use roasted sunflower seeds, hemp seeds, or omit the coating and sprinkle with fresh herbs instead.

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Q5: How do I prevent it from sticking to the wrap?

A: Chill the cheese mixture before shaping, and use lightly oiled plastic wrap. You can also use parchment paper.

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Q6: Can I make this into a round cheese ball?

A: Absolutely. Instead of shaping into a log, roll into a smooth ball and coat the same way. It’s equally festive.

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Q7: Is this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, the cheese log itself is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers or vegetable sticks if needed.

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