Description
A delightful and festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log combining creamy cream cheese and sharp cheddar, rolled in a mixture of crunchy pecans, sweet dried cranberries, and fresh chives. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a flavorful appetizer served with your favorite crackers.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Base
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
Coating Mixture
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
Other
- Small mixing bowl
- Large mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Cling film
- Sharp knife
- Chopping board
- Cheese grater
Instructions
- Prepare the nut and fruit mix: In a small mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans, dried cranberries, and fresh chives. This mixture will add texture and flavor to the cheese log.
- Mix the cheeses and part of the coating: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and grated cheddar cheese thoroughly. Then, stir in half of the pecan, cranberry, and chive mixture to incorporate it into the cheese base.
- Shape and chill the cheese log: Transfer the cheese mixture onto a piece of cling film. Mold it carefully into a log shape, wrap it tightly with the cling film, and refrigerate for at least one hour to firm up and blend flavors.
- Coat the cheese log: Once chilled, spread the remaining pecan mixture evenly on a chopping board. Unwrap the cheese log and roll or press it onto the mixture to coat it evenly on all sides, adding a crunchy and colorful exterior.
- Slice and serve: Using a sharp knife, slice the cheese log into thickness as desired. Serve immediately with crackers or your preferred accompaniments for a festive appetizer.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is properly softened before mixing.
- Chopping the pecans and cranberries finely helps them stick better to the cheese log.
- Can be made a day ahead; keep wrapped tightly in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
- Pair with a variety of crackers, breads, or fresh vegetables as desired.
- Adjust the amount of chives based on your flavor preference.
