The holiday season is upon us, and nothing says festive quite like a Cranberry Cheese Log. Imagine a velvety cream cheese base enveloped in a tart cranberry layer, all topped off with crunchy nuts. The tangy-sweet aroma wafts through the air, making it nearly impossible to resist. unique mini sandwich ideas Each bite is a delightful burst of flavors and textures that dance on your palate, promising a flavor experience that will have your taste buds singing. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Cheesecake Squares recipe.
Picture this: family and friends gathered around the table, laughter echoing off the walls as they dive into this colorful appetizer. Memories of past gatherings flood in as you watch them savor every bite. perfect appetizer for gatherings Whether it’s Christmas, Thanksgiving, or just a cozy get-together, this Cranberry Cheese Log becomes the star of the show—an essential part of your holiday spread.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This mouthwatering Cranberry Cheese Log is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute gatherings
- Its vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing on any cheese platter
- The combination of tangy cranberries and creamy cheese creates an irresistible flavor explosion
- Versatile enough for both casual get-togethers and formal events, it’s always a hit!
Last Christmas, I made this delightful Cranberry Cheese Log for our holiday party. The delighted squeals from my nieces when they took their first bites were priceless and made my heart warm.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Cream Cheese: Softened at room temperature for easy mixing; you want it to be spreadable like butter on warm toast.
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Dried Cranberries: Choose plump ones; they add that perfect tartness against the creamy backdrop.
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Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: These provide a delightful crunch; toast them lightly for enhanced flavor.
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Green Onions: Thinly sliced for a fresh kick; they balance the richness beautifully.
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Honey or Maple Syrup: Just a drizzle adds sweetness; adjust based on your preference for tart versus sweet.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare Your Base: Start by letting your cream cheese soften at room temperature until it’s nice and creamy. Use an electric mixer for fluffiness if you have one handy.
Add Flavor Bombs: Mix in dried cranberries and green onions until evenly distributed throughout that luscious cream cheese base—this will be your flavor foundation!
Shape It Up!: Scoop the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Using the wrap as a guide, form it into a log shape—think of it like sculpting dough but way tastier.
Chill Out Time!: Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours. This helps set its shape while intensifying those fabulous flavors.
Coat with Crunch!: Once chilled, unwrap your beautiful log and roll it in chopped pecans or walnuts until evenly coated. It should look stunningly festive!
Serve with Style: Place your Cranberry Cheese Log on a serving platter alongside crackers or sliced baguette. delicious bread to serve alongside Watch as guests dive right in—the perfect conversation starter!
This delectable Cranberry Cheese Log is not only simple to make but also guarantees smiles all around. creative egg dish for brunch It’s bound to become one of those go-to recipes that you whip out time after time!
You Must Know
- The cranberry cheese log is perfect for parties; it’s visually appealing and bursting with flavor
- The combination of creamy cheese and tart cranberries creates a delightful taste sensation that will leave your guests asking for the recipe
- Plus, it’s super easy to make!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, combine the cream cheese and cheddar until smooth, then fold in cranberries and nuts. Lastly, mold into a log shape and chill until firm.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pecans for walnuts or add herbs like rosemary for extra flavor. A dash of cayenne can spice things up beautifully!
Storing & Reheating
Wrap the cranberry cheese log tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. No reheating needed; serve chilled!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother mixing; this prevents lumps
- Always taste as you go—adjust sweetness or saltiness to your preference
- Chill the log longer for easier slicing and serving at gatherings
Sharing this dish at my last family gathering was a hit! Everyone raved about its taste, especially my grandma, who declared it her new favorite appetizer.
FAQ
What is a cranberry cheese log?
A cranberry cheese log is a savory appetizer made with cream cheese, cranberries, and nuts. For more inspiration, check out this Cheese Bombs Recipe recipe.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the cheese log a day before your event for best results.
What can I serve with the cranberry cheese log?
Serve it with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh fruit for a delicious pairing.
Cranberry Cheese Log
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Cranberry Cheese Log is the ultimate festive appetizer that combines creamy, tangy flavors with delightful crunch. This no-bake cheese log features a smooth cream cheese base, enveloped in tart dried cranberries and topped with crunchy nuts. Perfect for any holiday gathering, this visually stunning dish is sure to impress family and friends. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s a must-have addition to your holiday spread!
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup dried cranberries (chopped)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (toasted)
- 1/4 cup green onions (thinly sliced)
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, soften cream cheese until creamy. Use an electric mixer for fluffiness if desired.
- Stir in chopped cranberries and green onions until evenly mixed.
- Scoop the mixture onto plastic wrap and shape it into a log.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set.
- Once chilled, roll the log in chopped nuts until fully coated.
- Serve on a platter with crackers or sliced baguette.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 105
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
