Print

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log
Print Recipe

A creamy and festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log combining rich cream cheese, tangy sour cream, crunchy toasted pecans, and sweet dried cranberries. Perfect as a holiday appetizer, it’s quick to prepare, visually stunning, and versatile enough to please a crowd year after year.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup dried cranberries (chopped if large)
  • 3/4 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Nuts and Cranberries: Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Allow to cool completely, then chop roughly. Chop dried cranberries if they are large for better distribution.
  2. Mix the Cheese Base: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sour cream. Mix with a hand mixer or sturdy spoon until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
  3. Add Flavorings: Stir in garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chopped green onions until fully incorporated to balance the flavors.
  4. Fold in Cranberries and Pecans: Gently fold in dried cranberries and toasted pecans, distributing evenly while avoiding breaking the nuts too much.
  5. Shape the Log: Transfer the mixture onto plastic wrap or parchment paper. Shape into a tight cylindrical log about 6 to 8 inches long. Wrap securely and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, optionally roll the log in extra chopped pecans, parsley, or additional dried cranberries for a festive presentation.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother blend without lumps.
  • Toast nuts carefully at medium heat to avoid burning and enhance flavor.
  • Add 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup to adjust sweetness if desired.
  • Chill overnight for better flavor melding.
  • Use a sharp knife to cut the cheese log cleanly without crumbling.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry pecan cheese log, holiday appetizer, cheese log recipe, festive snack, make-ahead appetizer, cream cheese appetizer, party starter

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/cranberry-pecan-cheese-log/