Festive Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Log

This Festive Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Log is the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and spicy all wrapped up in a gorgeous holiday-ready presentation. It’s the kind of appetizer that looks impressively elegant yet takes minimal effort, making it ideal for parties, gatherings, or last-minute hosting. With its jewel-toned cranberry topping and crunchy pecan finish, every bite feels like a celebration.

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 1/4 cup hot pepper jelly
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and velvety.
2. Scoop the cream cheese mixture onto plastic wrap and gently shape it into a neat log. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour so it can firm up.
3. In a small bowl, stir together the cranberry sauce and hot pepper jelly until beautifully combined.
4. Once the cream cheese log has chilled, unwrap it and place it on a serving platter.
5. Spoon the cranberry–hot pepper mixture over the top, letting it cascade naturally down the sides.
6. Sprinkle with chopped pecans and fresh parsley for color, crunch, and a festive finish.
7. Serve alongside crackers or sliced baguette and enjoy every creamy, sweet-spicy bite.

Variation

1. Swap the Nuts: Try walnuts, pistachios, or even toasted almonds. Each brings its own flavor personality walnuts add earthiness, pistachios bring a vibrant pop of green, and almonds offer a clean, buttery crunch.
2. Turn It Into a Ball: Instead of shaping a log, roll the cream cheese mixture into a ball, then coat the outside in chopped nuts or herbs for a more rustic, round presentation.
3. Use Different Jellies: Experiment with jalapeño jelly, raspberry chipotle, or even fig preserves. Each creates a unique sweet-heat profile while keeping the appetizer just as show-stopping.
4. Add Fresh Citrus: Folding a teaspoon of orange zest into the cranberry mixture brightens the flavor and adds a fragrant freshness perfect for holiday menus.

Cooking Notes

1. Allowing the cream cheese to fully soften makes mixing easier and ensures a silky-smooth base.
2. The log becomes easier to slice and spread after chilling, so don’t skip the refrigeration step.
3. If your cranberry sauce is extra chunky, lightly mash it before mixing with the hot pepper jelly for a better topping texture.

Serving Suggestions

1. Add Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside apple slices, pear wedges, or grapes. Their crisp sweetness complements the creamy, spicy-sweet log beautifully.
2. Build a Festive Board: Pair it with cured meats, additional cheeses, rosemary sprigs, and colorful crackers to create a holiday-inspired grazing board.
3. Warm the Topping: Gently heating the cranberry-pepper mixture makes it pourable and slightly glossy, adding a luxurious touch to the final presentation.

Tips

1. Make Ahead: You can shape and chill the cream cheese log up to 2 days in advance. Add the topping just before serving so the nuts stay crisp.
2. Adjust the Heat: Increase or decrease the hot pepper jelly depending on your preferred spice level. A little more jelly brings extra heat without overpowering the sweetness.
3. Use High-Quality Cranberry Sauce: A good cranberry sauce adds depth and brightness, so choose one with whole berries or make your own for an elevated flavor.

Prep Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Protein: ~3 g
• Sodium: ~150 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this appetizer a day ahead?
   Yes! Prepare the cream cheese log in advance, but add the topping just before serving for the best texture.
2. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
   You can, though the texture will be slightly softer and less rich but still delicious.
3. What if I don’t like spicy food?
   Simply substitute the hot pepper jelly with extra cranberry sauce or use a mild red pepper jelly.
4. How long does the leftover log keep?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The topping may soften the nuts, but the flavor remains delightful.

Conclusion

This Festive Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Log is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser creamy, sweet, spicy, crunchy, and effortlessly elegant. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or bringing a dish to share, this appetizer adds a burst of color and flavor that’s sure to shine on any table. Enjoy every festive, flavor-packed bite!