Description
This Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log is a delightful blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you need an easy yet impressive appetizer. The combination of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, dried cranberries, and crunchy pistachios is both visually appealing and delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Log:
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey
Cranberry-Pistachio Coating:
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries (chopped)
- 1/3 cup shelled pistachios (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
Serving:
- Crackers or crostini for serving
Instructions
- Cheese Log: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, black pepper, and honey. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Shaping: Lay a piece of plastic wrap on the counter and spoon the cheese mixture onto it. Shape into a log, then wrap tightly and chill for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Coating: Meanwhile, on a plate, mix together the chopped cranberries, pistachios, and herbs if using. Unwrap the chilled cheese log and gently roll it in the cranberry-pistachio mixture, pressing lightly to coat all sides. Rewrap and chill again until ready to serve.
- Serving: Slice and serve with crackers, crostini, or fresh veggies.
Notes
- You can make this up to 3 days ahead and store it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1 oz)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 115 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
