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Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 86 reviews
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is a delightful, no-bake appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers. Creamy full-fat cream cheese and sharp cheddar mixed with sweet dried cranberries and crunchy pecans create a balanced flavor and texture, all shaped into an elegant log and coated with a pecan and cranberry mixture for a beautiful presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Mixture

  • 250g / 9oz full fat Cream Cheese
  • 100g / 3.5oz Mature/Sharp Cheddar Cheese, grated

Fruit and Nut Mixture

  • 150g / 5.3oz Dried Cranberries, roughly diced
  • 125g / 4.4oz Pecans, roughly diced
  • 1/4 cup / 4 tbsp finely diced Chives

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Nut and Fruit Mixture: In a small mixing bowl, combine the roughly diced pecans, roughly diced dried cranberries, and finely diced chives. This mixture will be used both inside the cheese log and to coat it externally.
  2. Mix the Cheese and Half the Nut Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, add the cream cheese and grated sharp cheddar cheese. Using a spatula, combine the cheeses until smooth, then fold in half of the pecan, cranberry, and chive mixture to evenly distribute the flavors inside the cheese mix.
  3. Shape the Cheese Log: Transfer the combined cheese mixture onto a large sheet of cling film. Carefully shape it into a log, using the cling film to tightly wrap and contain it, ensuring a compact and even form. Refer to the video tutorial if available for shaping guidance.
  4. Chill to Set: Place the wrapped cheese log in the refrigerator and chill for at least one hour to allow the cheese to firm up. This resting time is recommended but not mandatory if your mixture is already firm.
  5. Coat the Cheese Log: When ready to serve, spread the remaining half of the pecan, cranberry, and chive mixture on a chopping board. Unwrap the chilled cheese log and gently press it into the mixture on all sides until fully coated, giving a crunchy and colorful exterior.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Place the finished cheese log on a serving board accompanied by crackers. Serve immediately and enjoy this tasty and elegant appetizer.

Notes

  • Can I use different nuts? – Yes! Walnuts and pistachios are excellent substitutes for pecans and work wonderfully in this recipe.
  • Can I use different cheese? – Cream cheese is recommended for its ideal texture to form the log, but folding in goat cheese can add a unique flavor if desired.
  • Can I substitute the cranberries? – Other dried fruits that pair well with nuts are fine, but avoid fresh fruit as it will make the log too soft and prevent it from holding its shape.
  • Inspiration comes from the GimmeDelicious cranberry pecan ball recipe.
  • Calories count is based on the entire log divided by six servings.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of cheese log (approx. 90g)
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 1.5g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Find it online: https://jessicasrecipes.com/cranberry-pecan-cheese-log-recipe-2/