Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is a delightful blend of creamy texture and sweet-tart flavors, making it the perfect appetizer for any holiday gathering. With the combination of luscious cream cheese, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans, this cheese log is not only delicious but also offers a touch of elegance to your festive table. Moreover, it is nutritious, providing healthy fats and proteins, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for an easy snack to whip up, this recipe has got you covered.

Why make this Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log recipe

Protein-rich: With cream cheese and nuts, this recipe provides a healthy dose of protein.
Quick prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it convenient for holiday cooking.
Meal-prep friendly: The cheese log can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
Budget-friendly: Requires simple, affordable ingredients.
Kid-approved: The sweet and nutty flavors are a hit with children and adults alike.

“This cheese log is a must for our holiday gatherings; it’s a crowd-pleaser every time!” – Happy TastyFitReader

How to make Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Preparing the Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is a simple and enjoyable process. All you need is a mixing bowl, plastic wrap, and your favorite serving platter. If you love fast protein breakfasts, try our Cottage Cheese Pancakes for another excellent recipe.

Ingredients

2 blocks (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup dried cranberries, divided
1/2 cup chopped pecans, divided
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
1/4 teaspoon salt
Crackers, for serving

This Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is versatile, allowing for easy substitutions. You can change the nuts to walnuts or almonds based on your personal preference, and for a vegan option, consider using dairy-free cream cheese.

Directions

Combine: In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of the dried cranberries, 1/4 cup of the chopped pecans, honey or maple syrup (if using), and salt. Ensure everything is well combined and smooth.
Shape: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on your counter. Spoon the cream cheese mixture onto the center of this wrap. Use your hands to gently shape the mixture into a log, about 6-8 inches long.
Wrap: Bring the edges of the plastic wrap around the log, twisting the ends to seal tightly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
Coat: Unwrap the cheese log and roll it in the remaining dried cranberries and chopped pecans to coat.
Serve: Let the log sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Use a sharp non-serrated knife for the best slices. Enjoy with crackers!

How to serve Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

For an impressive presentation, serve the Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log on a rustic wooden board, surrounded by an array of colorful crackers, sliced fruits, and fresh herbs. Pair it with a glass of refreshing Chardonnay or a festive sparkling non-alcoholic beverage for a full experience. This cheese log makes an excellent addition to a charcuterie board.

How to store

To store your Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze it for up to a month; just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

For safe storage timing, see USDA FoodData Central.

Tips to make

To prevent the cheese log from sticking, lightly oil your hands before shaping.
Use a sharp knife to slice the log cleanly for a professional finish.
Experiment with different nuts and dried fruits to customize the flavors to your liking.

Variations

Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or pistachios to diversify the flavors.
Fruits: Substitute dried cranberries with apricots or cherries for a unique twist.
Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and depth.

FAQs

Can I meal prep Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log?

Yes, Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log keeps well for 3–4 days in the fridge; store in an airtight container.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freeze portions for up to a month; thaw overnight, then reheat gently.

What substitutions work best?

Swap pecans for almonds or walnuts; adjust seasoning to taste and texture.

For nutrition insights, visit Healthline.

Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is the perfect appetizer that is easy to put together and delicious to share. We’d love to hear your thoughts, so please comment below and share this recipe with fellow food lovers!