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Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log Recipe

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★★★★

3.9 from 65 reviews

This Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log is a delightful and elegant appetizer perfect for gatherings and holiday parties. Creamy goat cheese and cream cheese blend smoothly with sweet dried cranberries, crunchy roasted pistachios, and fresh dill, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The cheese log is easy to prepare and can be made ahead, making it an ideal crowd-pleaser served with crackers, crostini, or fresh fruit slices.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Mixture

  • 8 oz goat cheese
  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Add-ins & Toppings

  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped (divided)
  • 1/2 cup roasted pistachios, chopped (divided)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (divided)

Instructions

  1. Soften the Cheeses: Let the goat cheese and cream cheese sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes to soften, making them easier to blend smoothly.
  2. Mix the Cheese Base: In a medium bowl, blend the softened goat cheese and cream cheese together until smooth. Stir in honey, salt, and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
  3. Add Half the Mix-ins: Fold in half of the chopped dried cranberries, roasted pistachios, and fresh dill into the cheese mixture, distributing the ingredients evenly.
  4. Form the Cheese Log: Scoop the cheese mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Using the plastic wrap, shape the mixture into a tight log. Wrap it securely to maintain its shape and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour to firm up.
  5. Prepare the Topping: Spread the remaining cranberries, pistachios, and dill on a serving plate. Unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it over the topping mixture to coat all sides evenly.
  6. Final Chill and Set: Press gently to ensure the toppings stick to the log. Chill again if necessary before serving to maintain firmness.
  7. Serve: Arrange the cranberry pistachio cheese log on a serving platter and serve with crackers, crostini, or fresh fruit slices for a delicious appetizer.

Notes

  • Allowing the cheeses to soften at room temperature is essential for a smooth, creamy mixture.
  • Optional honey adds subtle sweetness and balances the tartness of the cranberries.
  • Make the cheese log up to one day in advance and keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
  • Roasted pistachios provide a nice crunch; you can lightly toast raw pistachios if preferred.
  • For a nut-free version, omit pistachios and replace with seeds or extra dried fruit.

Keywords: Cranberry Cheese Log, Pistachio Cheese Log, Holiday Appetizer, Cheese Ball, No Bake Appetizer, Party Snack, Goat Cheese Recipe

Find it online: https://foodarohub.com/cranberry-pistachio-cheese-log-recipe/