Cranberry cheese log is the kind of party food that makes you look like a gourmet chef without breaking a sweat. Picture this: a creamy, tangy blend of cheese wrapped in a sweet and tart cranberry glaze, all elegantly rolled into a log shape. unique savory-sweet combination It looks stunning on any charcuterie board and tastes even better than it sounds. Your guests will be clamoring for the recipe, while you’ll just smile slyly, holding onto your culinary secret.
The best part? This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive holiday gathering or a casual get-together with friends. You might find yourself reminiscing about that one time at Aunt Sue’s holiday party when this cheese log stole the show—everyone was raving about it! So buckle up as we dive into this easy-to-make yet utterly satisfying recipe that will become a staple at all your gatherings. perfect pairing for appetizers.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] The cranberry cheese log is incredibly simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy hosts. The blend of sweet and savory flavors creates an irresistible taste sensation. Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning on any table setting. Perfect for parties, picnics, or even as a midday snack when you’re feeling fancy. [/info_box]
I remember the first time I made a cranberry cheese log; my friends devoured it within minutes and begged me for more! For more inspiration, check out this Gourmet Blueberry Grilled Cheese recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Aged cheddar brings a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of cranberries wonderfully.
Dried Cranberries: Opt for plump, juicy cranberries for an added burst of flavor when you bite into them.
Walnuts: Chopped walnuts add a delightful crunch; toast them lightly to enhance their richness.
Fresh Herbs (like parsley or chives): Fresh herbs brighten up the log with color and add freshness to each bite.
Honey: Sweeten the mixture with honey; it balances out the tanginess of the cream cheese perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Workstation: Gather all your ingredients and tools—mixing bowl, spatula, and plastic wrap are essential for this project.
Mix the Cheese Base: In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and sharp cheddar until smooth and creamy. creamy vegan alternative dish A hand mixer can help achieve that perfect consistency.
Add Sweetness and Crunch: Stir in chopped dried cranberries and walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the cheesy mixture; their textures will create delightful surprises in every bite.
Shape Your Log: Place the mixture onto plastic wrap; roll it tightly into a log shape. Twist the ends securely like you’re wrapping up a gift that everyone will want to open.
Chill Out!: Refrigerate your cranberry cheese log for at least 2 hours or until firm; this helps meld all those delicious flavors together beautifully. quick and easy flavor enhancer.
Garnish and Serve!: Once chilled, unwrap your masterpiece and roll it in fresh herbs for added flair before slicing. Serve with crackers or apple slices—your guests won’t know what hit them!
This cranberry cheese log is not just easy to make but also allows you to showcase your creativity in presentation. Enjoy!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This delightful cranberry cheese log is perfect for gatherings and parties. Its vibrant colors and tangy-sweet taste create an impressive appetizer that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, leaving you more time to mingle instead of being stuck in the kitchen. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the cream cheese and cranberries together until smooth. Then, chill for about 30 minutes before rolling into a log shape. This sequence ensures the perfect blend of flavors and a firm texture.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding chopped nuts or herbs for extra flavor and crunch. You can also swap out cranberries for other dried fruits like apricots to give it a unique twist that suits your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store the cranberry cheese log in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. There’s no need to reheat; simply slice and serve cold for maximum flavor and freshness.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] For the best results, use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth mixture. Avoid overmixing; it can make your log too soft. Lastly, let it chill adequately so that it holds its shape when sliced. [/info_box]
Creating this cranberry cheese log always reminds me of holiday gatherings at my aunt’s house, where laughter filled the air as we indulged in this tasty treat together.
FAQ
What can I serve with a cranberry cheese log?
Serve with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh fruits for delightful pairings.
How long does a cranberry cheese log last in the fridge?
It lasts up to one week if stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze a cranberry cheese log?
Yes, you can freeze it before serving; just wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Cranberry Cheese Log
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Elevate your next gathering with this stunning cranberry cheese log. This easy-to-make appetizer combines creamy cream cheese and sharp cheddar, enhanced by sweet dried cranberries and crunchy walnuts, all beautifully wrapped in a vibrant cranberry glaze. Perfect for parties or casual get-togethers, this dish will impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- ½ cup walnuts, chopped and toasted
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, chopped
- 2 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and tools: mixing bowl, spatula, and plastic wrap.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and sharp cheddar until smooth.
- Stir in dried cranberries, walnuts, and honey until evenly mixed.
- Transfer the mixture onto plastic wrap; roll tightly into a log shape.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
- Before serving, unwrap and roll in fresh herbs for garnish. Slice and serve with crackers or fruit.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (30g)
- Calories: 108
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
