Description
A festive and flavorful Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log combining creamy sharp cheddar and cream cheese with sweet pineapple, tart cranberries, and a crunchy pecan coating. Perfect as a holiday appetizer served with crackers or veggie sticks.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Coating and Garnish
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for rolling)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Soften Cream Cheese: Leave the cream cheese at room temperature for 30–45 minutes until softened to make mixing easier and ensure a smooth texture.
- Combine Cheeses: In a medium bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the well-drained crushed pineapple, chopped dried cranberries, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute all ingredients evenly.
- Form the Log: Spoon the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to shape the mixture into a 6–8 inch long log. Wrap it tightly to maintain the shape.
- Chill: Refrigerate the wrapped log for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the log to firm up for easier handling.
- Apply Pecan Coating: Unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it evenly in the chopped pecans. Press gently so the nuts adhere well to the surface.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the coated log to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve chilled alongside crackers or veggie sticks.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the crushed pineapple is very well-drained to prevent the cheese log from becoming watery.
- The cheese log can be prepared a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Use fresh green onions for a mild but fresh onion flavor—scallions may be substituted.
- To make the log more festive, consider rolling it in finely chopped fresh herbs mixed with pecans.
- Serve with an assortment of crackers, crostini, or vegetable sticks such as celery and carrot for a colorful presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: holiday cheese log, pineapple cranberry cheese ball, festive appetizer, cream cheese appetizer, pecan cheese log
