Ingredients
For the Cheese Log
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup finely chopped dried cranberries
- ½ cup finely chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
For the Cranberry Pecan Coating
- ½ cup finely chopped dried cranberries
- ½ cup finely chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives
Instructions
Remove the cream cheese from the refrigerator and allow it to soften for approximately 30 minutes.
Finely chop the dried cranberries and pecans. If you want a deeper nutty flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Transfer the pecans to a plate and let them cool completely before using.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Base
Place the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl.
Using a hand mixer or sturdy spatula, beat until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream, honey, and Worcestershire sauce.
Mix again until everything is fully combined and the mixture has a smooth consistency.
Step 3: Add the Cheese and Seasonings
Add the shredded cheddar cheese, ½ cup of chopped dried cranberries, ½ cup of chopped pecans, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, chopped chives, and parsley.
Stir with a spatula until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
The mixture should be thick and easy to shape. If it feels too soft, refrigerate it for 20 to 30 minutes before continuing.
Step 4: Shape the Cheese Log
Place a large piece of plastic wrap on your work surface.
Transfer the cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap. Gather the edges and begin shaping it into a log.
Roll gently until you have an even cylinder with rounded ends.
Twist the ends of the plastic wrap to tighten the shape. Place the wrapped cheese log on a tray and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Step 5: Prepare the Festive Coating
While the cheese log chills, prepare the coating.
In a shallow dish, combine the remaining chopped dried cranberries, pecans, parsley, and chives.
Mix gently until the cranberries, nuts, and herbs are evenly distributed.
Spread the mixture across the plate so it is easy to roll the cheese log through it.
Step 6: Coat the Cheese Log
Remove the chilled cheese log from the refrigerator and carefully unwrap it.
Place it over the cranberry-pecan mixture. Gently roll it from side to side, pressing the coating lightly onto the surface.
Use your hands to fill any bare areas with additional cranberries, pecans, and herbs.
Continue until the entire log is covered with a beautiful red, green, and golden coating.
Step 7: Chill Again
Transfer the coated cheese log to a serving platter or wrap it loosely in fresh plastic wrap.
Refrigerate for another 20 to 30 minutes to help the coating settle and the cheese log maintain its shape.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, arrange a few extra dried cranberries, pecan pieces, and fresh parsley around the cheese log.
Place crackers, pretzel crisps, and toasted baguette slices nearby.
Slice the cheese log with a clean knife or allow guests to spread it directly onto crackers.
Your Cranberry Christmas Cheese Log is ready to become the star of your holiday appetizer table!
Notes
- Use block cream cheese: It creates a firmer texture than whipped cream cheese or cream cheese spread.
- Chop the cranberries finely: Smaller pieces make the filling easier to shape and create a more even coating.
- Cool toasted pecans: Warm nuts can soften the cream cheese mixture.
- Don’t add too much sour cream: Too much moisture can make the log difficult to handle.
- Chill before coating: A firm cheese log is much easier to roll in the cranberry mixture.
- Press the coating gently: Light pressure helps the cranberries and pecans stick without flattening the log.
- Use a sharp knife: A clean, sharp knife makes neat slices.
- Keep refrigerated: This dairy-based appetizer should remain chilled until serving.