Introduction
The Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log is a festive, creamy, and crunchy appetizer that instantly elevates any gathering. The tangy cranberries paired with the buttery crunch of pistachios create a delightful contrast in every bite. Perfect for holiday parties or casual get-togethers, this cheese log is as visually stunning as it is flavorful. You’ll learn how to create a perfectly rolled, textured, and flavorful Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log that will impress guests and satisfy snack cravings alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log combines creamy and crunchy textures with a burst of tart sweetness from dried cranberries and the nutty richness of pistachios. This recipe is simple yet elegant, requiring minimal prep while delivering maximum impact. The soft, herby cream cheese center contrasts perfectly with the crunchy pistachio coating, making every bite an exciting flavor adventure. You’ll love serving it on a cheese platter, alongside crackers, or slicing it for sandwiches. Its versatility and show-stopping presentation make it ideal for holidays, potlucks, or cozy nights at home. This recipe transforms ordinary cream cheese into a gourmet centerpiece.
Ingredients
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8 oz. cream cheese, softened
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4 oz. goat cheese, softened
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½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
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½ cup shelled pistachios, chopped
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2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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Optional: 1 tbsp honey for added sweetness
Pro Tips
1. Soften Cheeses Properly: Let both cream cheese and goat cheese sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. Softened cheese blends smoothly and rolls easily.
2. Toast Pistachios Lightly: A quick 3–4 minute toast in a dry skillet intensifies the nutty flavor, enhancing the contrast between creamy and crunchy textures.
3. Use Plastic Wrap for Rolling: Lay the cheese mixture on plastic wrap and roll tightly. This ensures a uniform log shape, prevents cracking, and makes coating with pistachios much easier.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, goat cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy. Use a spatula or hand mixer for best results.
Step 2: Add Flavorings
Fold in chopped cranberries and fresh chives. If you want a slightly sweeter profile, add a tablespoon of honey. Mix until evenly distributed, ensuring every bite has a balance of tangy and herbal flavors.
Step 3: Shape the Cheese Log
Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on your countertop. Transfer the cheese mixture onto the wrap in a rough log shape. Wrap it tightly and roll gently to create a uniform cylinder. Twist the ends of the wrap to secure the shape.
Step 4: Chill the Log
Place the wrapped cheese log in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Chilling firms it up, making it easier to coat with pistachios and slice cleanly.
Step 5: Prepare Nut Coating
While the log chills, chop pistachios into small, even pieces. For extra flavor, lightly toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes. Let them cool completely before using.
Step 6: Coat the Cheese Log
Remove the cheese log from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Place chopped pistachios on a plate and roll the log in the nuts, pressing gently to ensure even coverage.
Step 7: Serve
Slice the Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log into ½-inch rounds and arrange on a serving platter. Garnish with extra chives or whole pistachios for presentation. Serve with crackers, breadsticks, or fresh fruit.
Variations
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Nut-Free Version: Replace pistachios with toasted coconut flakes or finely crushed pretzels for a similar crunch.
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Spicy Twist: Add ¼ tsp cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to the cheese mixture for a subtle kick.
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Holiday Berry Mix: Substitute dried cranberries with a mix of dried cherries and apricots for seasonal variety.
Storage and Serving
Store the Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the log for up to 2 months, then thaw in the fridge before serving. Serve chilled or at room temperature for optimal flavor. Pair with whole-grain crackers, crisp celery sticks, or sliced baguette for a perfect appetizer.
FAQs
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, the cheese log can be prepared a day in advance. Keep it chilled until serving for the best texture.
2. Can I use other nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or pecans all work well as substitutes for pistachios.
3. How do I prevent the log from cracking?
Ensure your cheeses are fully softened and roll tightly in plastic wrap before chilling.
4. Can I make it vegan?
Yes, use vegan cream cheese and a nut-based cheese alternative. Combine with dried cranberries and pistachios as usual.
5. What if I don’t like cranberries?
Dried cherries, apricots, or blueberries can be used instead for a different fruity flavor.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log is comfort food at its finest — creamy, crunchy, and full of festive flavors that make every bite exciting. It’s the kind of dish that elevates any party platter or cozy evening snack, turning simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or enjoying a casual get-together, this cheese log impresses with taste, texture, and visual appeal.
Print
Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log
- Total Time: 40mins
Description
Turn simple cheeses into a show-stopping appetizer with this creamy, crunchy, and festive Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log. Perfect for holiday parties or cozy nights.
Ingredients
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8 oz. cream cheese, softened
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4 oz. goat cheese, softened
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½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
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½ cup shelled pistachios, chopped
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2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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Optional: 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, goat cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
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Fold in chopped cranberries, chives, and honey if using.
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Transfer mixture onto plastic wrap and roll into a log. Twist ends to secure.
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Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
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Chop and toast pistachios lightly, then cool.
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Remove cheese log from wrap and roll in pistachios until fully coated.
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Slice into ½-inch rounds and serve with crackers, breadsticks, or fruit.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25mins
- Category: Lunch
- Cuisine: American