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Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log

A delightful, creamy appetizer combining savory and sweet elements, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Prep Time15 minutes
Total Time2 hours
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Keyword: Cheese Log, Cranberry, cream cheese, Holiday Appetizer, Pineapple
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 150kcal

Ingredients

Cheese Base

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened The base of our log, offering a rich and creamy texture.
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese Adds depth and a lovely sharpness to the flavor profile.

Mix-ins

  • 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained Sweet and tropical, adding juiciness.
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped Tart and vibrant, providing a beautiful color contrast.
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped For a subtle, fresh crunch.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder A hint of savory goodness.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Enhancing flavors, creating depth.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Essential seasonings for balance.

Coating

  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans For that delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Fresh parsley for garnish A touch of green to elevate presentation.

Instructions

Preparation

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and well blended to form a creamy base.
  • Stir in the drained crushed pineapple, chopped dried cranberries, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Shaping

  • Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the center and shape it gently into a log using your hands or a spatula.

Chilling

  • Wrap the shaped log tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up.

Coating and Serving

  • Remove the cheese log from the plastic wrap. Roll the log in the chopped pecans, pressing lightly to ensure the nuts adhere well.
  • Transfer the pecan-coated cheese log to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve alongside crackers, baguette slices, or veggie sticks.

Notes

For a little kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes. Swap dried cranberries for dried cherries or apricots for different flavor profiles.