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Easy Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log

Easy Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log
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The Easy Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log is a festive, creamy, and crunchy appetizer perfect for holiday entertaining. Combining the richness of cream and goat cheese with the tartness of dried cranberries and the crunch of pistachios, this snack balances sweet and savory flavors with vibrant colors. Quick and simple to prepare, it’s versatile for serving with crackers, breads, or vegetables, making it a holiday classic that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients

Cheeses

  • Cream cheese, softened (8 oz)
  • Goat cheese or feta, softened (4 oz)

Mix-Ins

  • Dried cranberries (1/2 cup, divided)
  • Chopped pistachios (1/2 cup, divided)
  • Honey or maple syrup (1 to 2 tablespoons)
  • Fresh herbs (optional, such as thyme or rosemary, 1 tablespoon chopped)

For Serving

  • Crackers, fresh bread, or vegetable sticks of choice

Instructions

  1. Soften the Cheese: Let the cream cheese and goat cheese sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes until softened. This helps with smooth mixing and creates a creamy texture.
  2. Mix the Cheese and Honey: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and goat cheese with honey or maple syrup. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and the sweetness is evenly incorporated.
  3. Fold in Cranberries and Pistachios: Gently fold in half of the dried cranberries and chopped pistachios, reserving the rest for coating the outside. This ensures flavor and texture throughout the log.
  4. Shape the Cheese Log: Using clean hands or a spatula, form the cheese mixture into a log shape approximately 6 to 8 inches long. Place the log on parchment paper or a serving plate.
  5. Coat with Remaining Cranberries and Nuts: Spread the reserved cranberries and pistachios onto a plate. Roll the cheese log over the mixture, coating the outside evenly to create a colorful, festive appearance.
  6. Chill Before Serving: Wrap the cheese log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to firm up and allow flavors to meld. A minimum 30-minute chill is acceptable if short on time.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cheese to ensure smooth mixing without lumps.
  • Chop nuts finely for easier rolling and even coating.
  • Garnish with fresh cranberries and herbs for added color and brightness.
  • Make the cheese log a day ahead to enhance flavor melding.
  • Serve with a variety of crackers, breads, or fresh vegetables for an attractive snack table.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry cheese log, holiday appetizer, pistachio cheese log, festive cheese spread, easy cheese log, no bake appetizer, Christmas snack

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/easy-cranberry-pistachio-cheese-log/