If you’re looking for an appetizer that strikes the perfect balance between creamy, crunchy, tangy, and sweet, you’re about to meet your new go-to party dish: the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log. This delightful cheese log brings together the warmth of toasted pecans, the festive zing of dried cranberries, and the smooth richness of two cheeses, all rolled up in one irresistible package. Whether it’s the holidays, a wine night, or just a way to elevate a simple lunch, this showstopper belongs on your table — and trust me, it never lasts long!

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log comes together with a handful of simple, approachable ingredients. Each one plays a starring role, contributing flavor, texture, and that signature pop of color that makes this log unforgettable.

Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened): The ultra-creamy, tangy base that holds everything together and gives each bite a luscious mouthfeel.
Sharp White Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Adds a punchy, savory edge that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cranberries.
Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): A little goes a long way, adding subtle depth and savory warmth without overpowering the cheese.
Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to wake up all the other flavors and give the log a gentle hint of spice.
Dried Cranberries (1/2 cup, chopped): These ruby jewels bring a pop of color and tart-sweet flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Toasted Pecans (1/2 cup, chopped): The toasting step brings out their bold, nutty flavor and gives the log its addictively crunchy exterior.
Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, optional, chopped): Adds a touch of green, a hint of freshness, and takes the presentation to the next level.

How to Make Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Step 1: Mix the Creamy Base

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp white cheddar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Use a sturdy spatula or a hand mixer to blend everything together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and fully unified. At this stage, the fragrance alone is enough to make your mouth water!

Step 2: Fold In Cranberries and Pecans

Take half of your chopped dried cranberries and half of your toasted pecans and gently stir them right into the cheese mixture. This ensures that each slice of your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is marbled with juicy, sweet, and nutty bites.

Step 3: Shape and Chill

Scoop the cheesy mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap, then use your hands (or the wrap itself) to form it into a tight, even log. Wrap it snugly and refrigerate for at least an hour so it can set and chill — this is what gives the cheese log its signature shape and makes it easy to serve.

Step 4: Coat with Crunch and Color

On a plate or shallow dish, mix the remaining cranberries, the rest of the pecans, and the parsley if you’re using it. Unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it through this beautiful coating, pressing gently so everything sticks and forms a colorful, textured crust — the part everyone will ooh and aah over!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Place your finished Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log on a serving platter and surround it with crackers, crostini, or fresh baguette slices. This is the moment where you get to bask in the compliments — and maybe sneak a taste before everyone else digs in!

How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of garnish! Sprinkle extra chopped parsley, a few whole toasted pecans, and a handful of whole cranberries around your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log for a burst of color and freshness that makes your platter shine. Drizzle with a touch of honey if you like an extra hint of sweetness to contrast the cheeses.

Side Dishes

This cheese log pairs beautifully with crisp apple or pear slices, classic crackers, or pieces of fresh baguette. For a more decadent spread, consider serving it alongside fig jam, olives, or prosciutto — the mix of sweet, salty, and savory is simply divine!

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to take your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log presentation a step further, try shaping it into a wreath for the holidays, or even smaller mini logs or balls for individual servings. Place each mini cheese log on a cracker or cucumber slice for easy, elegant hors d’oeuvres that guests can just pick up and pop in their mouths!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow have leftovers, wrap your cheese log tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days without losing any of its lovely texture or flavor.

Freezing

The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log can be frozen if you want to make it extra-far in advance. Wrap it well and freeze before adding the coating. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then roll in the cranberry-pecan mixture for freshness and crunch.

Reheating

There’s really no need to heat up this cheese log — it’s meant to be served chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Just let it sit out of the fridge for 15–20 minutes before serving to soften up for easy spreading.

FAQs

How far in advance can I make the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log?

You can make this cheese log up to three days ahead of your event. Simply keep it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator, and add the cranberry-pecan-parsley coating fresh before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Can I use walnuts or another nut instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios offer their own unique twist and pair perfectly with the tangy cranberries and creamy cheeses. Just make sure to toast the nuts first to deepen their flavor.

Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Yes, you can swap in your favorite dairy-free cream cheese and cheddar-style shreds to create a vegan Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log that’s just as impressive and delicious.

What crackers go best with this cheese log?

Crispy, plain crackers really let the flavors of the cheese log shine, but you can also get creative with multigrain, seeded, or even sweet-savory options like fig or cinnamon crisps for added interest.

Can I add other mix-ins to the cheese log?

Definitely! Chopped chives, green onions, or bits of dried apricot or fig can all add exciting flavor twists. Feel free to experiment and make the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log truly your own.

Final Thoughts

The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is one of those memorable appetizers that always brings people together and inspires a little bit of culinary joy. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or just want to treat yourself to something special, give this recipe a try — you’re almost guaranteed to become everyone’s favorite host!

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe

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4.7 from 19 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors of this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log. This festive appetizer is perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want to impress your guests with a delicious and easy-to-make treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Log:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans

Garnish:

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Cheese Log: In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth. Stir in half of the cranberries and pecans. Shape into a log and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Garnish the Cheese Log: In a shallow dish, combine the remaining cranberries, pecans, and parsley. Roll the chilled cheese log in the mixture to coat.
Serve: Accompany with crackers or sliced baguette.