Description
A creamy, tangy cheese log rolled in toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and parsley. It is an easy make-ahead appetizer that feels festive, looks beautiful on a platter, and pairs perfectly with crackers.
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
- 1 cup pecans, finely chopped and lightly toasted
- 2 tablespoons green onions, finely sliced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Assorted crackers, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and spread the pecans on a small baking sheet or pan.
- Toast the pecans for 6 to 8 minutes, until fragrant, then let them cool completely.
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, green onions, honey, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- In a shallow dish, stir together the cooled pecans, chopped dried cranberries, and parsley.
- Scoop the cheese mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap and shape it into a log.
- Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, until firm.
- Unwrap the chilled log and roll it gently in the cranberry pecan mixture, pressing lightly so the coating sticks evenly.
- Transfer to a serving platter and let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
- Serve with assorted crackers.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for the smoothest texture.
- Finely chop the pecans and cranberries so the coating sticks neatly.
- You can shape this into a cheese ball instead of a log if preferred.
- Prepare it a day ahead and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: cranberry pecan cheese log, holiday appetizer, cream cheese appetizer, make-ahead cheese log, party appetizer, vegetarian appetizer