Ingredients
This recipe makes one large cheese log, approximately 10–12 appetizer servings.
For the Cheese Log
- 16 ounces (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, very well drained
- ½ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
For the Pepper Jelly Topping
- ½ cup red pepper jelly
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, optional, to balance the sweetness
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped dried cranberries, for garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped pecans, for garnish
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Place the crushed pineapple in a fine-mesh strainer and press it gently with the back of a spoon to remove as much liquid as possible.
For an even drier result, place the pineapple in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels and gently squeeze out the remaining moisture.
This step is important because excess pineapple juice can make the cream cheese mixture too soft.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
Place the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans, green onions, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Mix with a hand mixer on low speed or stir with a sturdy spatula until everything is evenly combined.
Step 3: Fold in the Pineapple
Add the thoroughly drained crushed pineapple to the cream cheese mixture.
Fold gently with a spatula until the pineapple is evenly distributed.
Avoid overmixing, as you want the mixture to remain thick and hold its shape.
If the mixture feels too soft, refrigerate it for 20–30 minutes before shaping.
Step 4: Shape the Cheese Log
Place a large piece of plastic wrap on your work surface.
Spoon the cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap and shape it into a log approximately 8 inches long.
Wrap it tightly, gently smoothing the surface as you go.
Twist the ends of the plastic wrap to help create an even shape.
Step 5: Chill Until Firm
Place the wrapped cheese log on a tray and refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours, or preferably overnight.
Chilling allows the cream cheese to firm up and the flavors to blend together.
Do not skip this step. A properly chilled cheese log is much easier to unwrap, transfer, and serve.
Step 6: Prepare the Pepper Jelly Topping
Place the red pepper jelly in a small microwave-safe bowl.
Warm it in short intervals of approximately 10 seconds, stirring between each interval, until it becomes loose enough to spoon over the cheese log.
Do not overheat it. The goal is to make the jelly spreadable, not hot.
If desired, stir in the apple cider vinegar to add a little tanginess.
Allow the jelly to cool slightly before topping the cheese log.
Step 7: Add the Festive Topping
Unwrap the chilled cheese log and place it carefully on a serving platter.
Spoon the pepper jelly over the top, spreading it gently while allowing a little to drip naturally down the sides.
Sprinkle with the reserved chopped cranberries, pecans, and fresh parsley.
For the prettiest presentation, keep most of the pepper jelly on the top so the creamy cheese log remains visible around the sides.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange crackers, pretzels, toasted baguette slices, and fresh apple slices around the cheese log.
Serve chilled with a small cheese spreader or butter knife.
Your Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log with Pepper Jelly is ready to become the star of your holiday appetizer table!
Notes
Drain the pineapple very well. This is the most important step for achieving a firm cheese log. Even a small amount of extra liquid can affect the texture.
Use block cream cheese. It creates a thicker, more stable mixture than whipped cream cheese.
Chill before shaping if necessary. If your kitchen is warm or the mixture feels sticky, refrigerate it briefly before forming the log.
Allow enough chilling time. At least 3–4 hours is recommended. Overnight chilling gives the best shape and allows the flavors to develop.
Warm the pepper jelly gently. Excessive heat can make the jelly too runny. Warm it only until it becomes easy to spoon.
Add the jelly close to serving time. This helps preserve its glossy appearance and prevents the topping from running down the sides during storage.
Use a sharp knife for serving. A clean knife helps create neat portions without crushing the cheese log.