Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe

I absolutely love this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe because it’s such a simple yet impressive appetizer that always wows guests. The mix of tangy cranberries with crunchy pecans and creamy cheeses creates a flavor combo that’s both festive and comforting – perfect for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers. Whenever I bring this out, it’s instantly a hit and disappears faster than I expect!

What makes this cheese log worth trying is how it balances sweet, salty, and nutty flavors in one easy-to-make package. Plus, you don’t need to be a kitchen pro to put it together. If you want something that feels fancy but tastes like home, this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe will become your go-to party pleaser.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe come together to create a harmonious blend of creamy, nutty, and fruity flavors. Using full-fat cream cheese and sharp cheddar gives it richness, while diced cranberries and pecans add irresistible texture and bursts of flavor.

• Cream Cheese: Choose full-fat for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
• Dried Cranberries: Roughly diced to distribute sweet-tart bursts evenly throughout the log.
• Pecans: Roughly chopped for crunch and a buttery undertone, feel free to toast them lightly for extra aroma.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Freshly grated gives the cheese log depth and a bit of tanginess.
• Chives: Finely diced to add a subtle oniony brightness that balances the sweetness.

Variations

One of the best things about this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. I encourage you to experiment with different nuts, herbs, or cheeses to make this recipe your own—trust me, a little tweak can turn it into your signature appetizer.

• Nut Swap: I once used toasted walnuts instead of pecans for a slightly earthier crunch – delicious and just as festive.
• Cheese Variations: If you prefer a milder flavor, try swapping sharp cheddar for gouda or even a smoked cheese for a deeper aroma.
• Fresh Herbs: Adding thyme or rosemary alongside chives gives a more herbal twist that’s fantastic during winter holidays.
• Sweetness Level: If you love contrast, try adding chopped apricots or cherries with the cranberries for a different kind of fruitiness.

How to Make Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Nut and Fruit Mixture

Start by combining the diced pecans, chopped dried cranberries, and finely diced chives in a small bowl. Mixing these together first helps ensure an even coating later on and distributes all those lovely textures and flavors evenly around your cheese log.

Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese and Cheddar

In a larger bowl, add the full-fat cream cheese and grated sharp cheddar. Use a spatula to mix them together until smooth and well combined. Then fold in HALF of the pecan, cranberry, and chive mixture, saving the rest for rolling the log later. This keeps some of that crunchy coating fresh and vibrant for presentation.

Step 3: Shape and Chill Your Cheese Log

Transfer your cheese mixture onto a large sheet of cling film. Using the cling film, mold the mixture into a tight log shape by wrapping and gently pressing to compact it. This step is key to getting a firm cheese log that slices well. Pop the wrapped log into the fridge for at least an hour to help it firm up — though if your mixture is quite solid, you might be able to skip this chilling time when in a hurry.

Step 4: Coat and Serve

When you’re ready to serve, unwrap your chilled cheese log and spread the remaining pecan and cranberry mixture onto a cutting board. Roll the log gently in the coating mix so it’s evenly covered all over. Slice and arrange on a serving board with crackers or fresh bread, then watch it disappear!

How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing the cheese log with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme — it adds a lovely herbal aroma and looks festive on the board. Sometimes I sprinkle a few extra whole pecans or cranberries around the plate for color and texture contrast.

Side Dishes

This cheese log pairs wonderfully with an array of crackers, sliced baguette, or even crisp apple slices to brighten the palate. For a heartier spread, I include olives, cured meats, and pickles alongside for a full charcuterie vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I sometimes shape the cheese into balls instead of a log for fun bite-sized portions. Wrapping each ball in pecan and cranberry coating gives guests a gorgeous individual appetizer. You can also mold into festive shapes or use themed serving boards to match the season.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I tightly wrap any leftover cheese log in cling film and keep it refrigerated; it stays fresh for up to 5 days. I find this recipe actually tastes better after a day or two as the flavors really come together—just let it sit wrapped until serving.

Freezing

Freezing works fairly well if you’re prepping ahead. I wrap the cheese log tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze it for up to a month. When ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge to keep the texture creamy and smooth.

Reheating

Since this is a cold appetizer, I don’t recommend reheating. Instead, just take it out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving so it softens slightly and becomes easier to slice and enjoy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe has become one of my favorite crowd-pleasers because it’s effortless, delicious, and looks so inviting on any appetizer spread. I love sharing it with friends and family—there’s something so satisfying about biting into that creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory combo all at once. Give it a try for your next gathering; I promise you’ll come back to this recipe again and again!

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