There’s just something special about the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log — it’s festive, eye-catching, and ridiculously delicious. This easy party appetizer effortlessly combines creamy richness, tangy bursts of cranberries, and nutty toasted pecans, all rolled into one showstopping log. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just looking to add some pizzazz to your next cheeseboard, you’re about to fall in love with this irresistible favorite.

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients, the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log comes together beautifully. Each addition plays a vital role, enhancing the flavor, texture, and visual appeal to create a party-perfect bite in every slice.

Cream Cheese (16 oz, softened): The creamy base that makes every bite smooth and spreadable, so be sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Sharp White Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Bold and tangy cheddar infuses the log with just the right amount of bite and savory depth.
Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Adds gentle savoriness and warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a subtle kick to keep things interesting.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and brings the cheeses together.
Dried Cranberries (1/2 cup, chopped): Sweet, chewy cranberries add colorful pops and a hint of tartness.
Pecans (1/2 cup, chopped and toasted): Toasting pecans unlocks their full flavor for a wonderful crunch in the coating.
Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Brightens everything up with fresh, herbal notes and a beautiful green hue.
Crackers or Sliced Baguette (for serving): The ideal vehicles for scooping up generous slabs of cheese log — pick your favorites!

How to Make Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Step 1: Mix the Cheeses and Seasonings

Start by beating the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until it’s completely smooth and billowy. Add the shredded sharp white cheddar, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt, then stir everything together until the flavors are evenly blended. You’re aiming for a thick, cohesive mixture with flecks of cheddar throughout.

Step 2: Shape and Chill the Cheese Log

Scoop the cheesy mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap and, using your hands or a spatula, form it into a log shape about 8 inches long. Wrap it tightly to help it hold its shape, then place the log in the refrigerator to chill for at least one hour. This step is key, as it allows the log to firm up, making it easy to coat later.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

While the log chills, combine the chopped dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and fresh parsley in a shallow dish or plate. Give it a gentle toss to evenly distribute the colorful, crunchy coating — this outer layer will provide gorgeous flavor and irresistible texture in every bite.

Step 4: Coat the Cheese Log

Once the cheese log has firmed up, carefully unwrap it and place it on the bed of cranberry-pecan-parsley mixture. Roll gently, pressing the coating onto all sides to ensure every bit is covered. Don’t be shy about using your hands; a little pressure helps everything stick.

Step 5: Serve or Store

Transfer your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log to a serving platter, refrigerate until ready to serve, and slice just before your guests arrive. If you want to make it ahead, simply wrap it up and keep it chilled until party time.

How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra chopped parsley, a few dried cranberries, and a scattering of pecan halves alongside the platter really amp up the celebratory vibe. If you have fresh rosemary or thyme on hand, tucking in a sprig or two offers an extra hit of fragrance and a festive look.

Side Dishes

This cheese log pairs beautifully with crispy crackers, delicate crostini, or hearty slices of baguette. Surround it with seasonal fruit like grapes, apple slices, or pear wedges for extra color and a refreshing contrast. It also sits right at home on a larger cheeseboard with cured meats and other cheeses.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic feel, serve the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log on a wooden board with the coating ingredients scattered artistically around. If you want to mix things up, try shaping the mixture into smaller individual cheese balls for easy grabbing, or arrange it as part of a “build your own” appetizer tray for guests to assemble as they wish!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log tightly in plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days, though it’s hard to imagine it sticking around that long!

Freezing

You can freeze the cheese log for even longer storage: wrap it well in both plastic wrap and foil before freezing. For best texture, freeze before adding the cranberry-pecan coating, then thaw in the fridge and roll in the fresh coating just before serving.

Reheating

No need to reheat — simply bring the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log out of the fridge about 15 to 20 minutes before serving to let it soften slightly. This brings out the flavors and makes spreading a breeze.

FAQs

Can I make the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese log up to 2 days ahead, wrap it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just roll it in the cranberry-pecan coating shortly before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.

How can I make this recipe nut-free?

To make a nut-free version, simply swap out the pecans for roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) or sunflower seeds. You’ll still get a fabulous crunch in the coating without the nuts.

What are the best crackers to serve with this cheese log?

A sturdy, mild-flavored cracker is your best bet. Think water crackers, multigrain crisps, or slices of toasted baguette. Gluten-free crackers work beautifully if you’re serving those with dietary preferences.

Can I use different cheeses in this log?

Yes! Feel free to substitute other sharp cheeses, such as extra sharp yellow cheddar or smoked gouda, for a new flavor twist. Just make sure whatever you choose shreds easily and offers a similar boldness to complement the cranberries and pecans.

Is the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log vegetarian?

It is! This recipe contains no meat products and is perfectly suitable for vegetarians. Always double-check that your cheeses are made with vegetarian rennet if this is important to you.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is a perennial favorite at gatherings: it’s as gorgeous as it is delicious and comes together in no time. I hope you give it a try for your next get-together — it’s destined to become one of your go-to crowd-pleasers!

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe

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4.6 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 10 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free (with gluten-free crackers)

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Description

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is a delightful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. Creamy and tangy, with a sweet and nutty exterior, this cheese log is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Log:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt

Cranberry-Pecan Coating:

1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup pecans, chopped and toasted
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For Serving:

Crackers or sliced baguette

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Instructions

Prepare Cheese Log: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add shredded cheddar, garlic powder, pepper, and salt, and mix until combined.
Shape and Chill: On a sheet of plastic wrap, form the mixture into a log shape and wrap tightly. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Coat with Cranberry-Pecan Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and parsley. Unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it in the cranberry-pecan mixture until evenly coated on all sides.
Serve: Transfer to a serving platter and refrigerate until ready to serve. Slice and serve with crackers or baguette slices.