Description
This Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering. Packed with sharp cheddar, tangy pineapple, tart cranberries, and a crunchy pecan crust, it’s a festive appetizer that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Serve it with crackers, sliced baguette, or even crisp veggie sticks for a colorful and flavorful start to your holiday feast.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Add crushed pineapple, chopped dried cranberries, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the center and shape into a log.
- Wrap tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Once chilled, remove the cheese log from the plastic and roll it in chopped pecans, pressing gently so they adhere.
- Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with crackers or baguette slices.
Notes
- Drain the Pineapple Well: Too much moisture can make the log soggy. Press the crushed pineapple gently through a mesh sieve or paper towel to remove excess liquid.
- Softened Cream Cheese Is Key: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps and to get that smooth, creamy texture.
- Chill Time Matters: Don’t skip the refrigeration step! It helps the flavors meld together and makes the log easier to handle and slice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ~2 tablespoons (1/12th of log)
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: cheese log, holiday appetizer, cranberry cheese ball, pineapple cheese log, party appetizer, make-ahead appetizer