Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log (Print version)
Creamy, tangy cheese log studded with dried cranberries and crunchy pistachios — an elegant party spread.
# Ingredient List:
→ Cheese Mixture
01 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
02 - 3.5 ounces goat cheese, softened
03 - 1 tablespoon honey
04 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Mix-Ins
05 - 1/2 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
06 - 1/2 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
07 - 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped (optional)
→ Coating
08 - 1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
09 - 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
10 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
# How To Make It:
01 - In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, goat cheese, honey, and black pepper. Beat with an electric mixer or spatula until smooth and creamy.
02 - Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped cranberries, 1/2 cup of chopped pistachios, and chives if desired, until evenly distributed throughout the cheese base.
03 - Lay a piece of plastic wrap on the counter. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the wrap and use it to shape into a log about 6 inches long.
04 - In a shallow dish, combine the finely chopped cranberries, chopped pistachios, and fresh parsley for the outer coating.
05 - Unwrap the cheese log and gently roll it in the cranberry and pistachio mixture until evenly coated on all sides.
06 - Rewrap the coated cheese log in clean plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to firm.
07 - Before serving, allow the log to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes. Slice and present with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The sweet-tart pops of cranberry against the creamy cheese will make your tastebuds spring awake every time.
- It’s one of those rare make-ahead appetizers that does all the work for you—leaving you extra time for your guests or your own glass of wine.
02 -
- If the cheeses aren’t fully softened, the mixture will come out lumpy and stubborn—trust me, give them time on the counter first.
- Rolling the log while still a little soft helps the coating stick evenly before chilling sets everything in place.
03 -
- Don’t be shy about using your hands to shape the log: it’s the easiest way to get it right, even if it feels a little messy at first.
- If doubling the recipe, make two smaller logs—it’s easier to handle and makes for prettier presentation.