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Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log Recipe

Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log Recipe
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This Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log is a delightful appetizer that combines the creamy richness of cheese with the sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of pistachios. Perfect for entertaining or as a festive snack!

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Log:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 4 oz goat cheese, softened (or use all cream cheese if preferred)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1/2 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a warm note)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving:

  • Crackers or sliced baguette
  • Fresh fruit (e.g., apple slices, grapes)
  • Vegetables (e.g., celery sticks, carrot sticks)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

    In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, goat cheese (if using), and sour cream until smooth and creamy. If using, mix in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  2. Add Cranberries and Honey:

    Fold in the chopped dried cranberries and honey until evenly distributed. The honey adds a nice sweetness that complements the cranberries and cheese.

  3. Shape the Cheese Log:

    Place a large piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper on a work surface. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the center of the wrap or paper and shape it into a log or cylinder using your hands or a spatula. Wrap the cheese mixture tightly in the plastic wrap or parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.

  4. Prepare the Pistachio Coating:

    While the cheese log is chilling, finely chop the pistachios and spread them out on a plate or a piece of parchment paper.

  5. Coat the Cheese Log:

    Once the cheese log is firm, remove it from the wrap and roll it in the chopped pistachios, pressing gently to ensure the nuts stick to the surface. If you like, you can also roll the log in fresh chopped parsley for added color and flavor.

  6. Serve:

    Transfer the cheese log to a serving platter and garnish with additional parsley, if desired. Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, fresh fruit, or vegetables.

Notes

  • Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing. You can leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting.
  • Goat Cheese: If you don’t like goat cheese, you can use more cream cheese or a different soft cheese like ricotta.
  • Make Ahead: The cheese log can be prepared a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and coat it with pistachios just before serving to keep the nuts crisp.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log, Cheese Log Recipe, Appetizer, Holiday Appetizer, Party Food

Find it online: https://maicook.com/cranberry-pistachio-cheese-log-recipe/