Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log
Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log is the perfect appetizer that combines delightful flavors and textures in every bite. This creamy, cheesy log is packed with tangy cranberries and crunchy walnuts, making it a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a casual get-together, or simply want to elevate your cheese platter, this simple recipe is sure to impress your guests. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare and can be made in advance, leaving you stress-free!
What Goes into This Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log
To whip up this delightful cheese log, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup raw walnuts (about 60 g)
- 1 (8-oz.) pkg cream cheese, softened (about 225 g)
- 4 oz. sharp white cheddar, shredded (about 113 g)
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened (about 45 g)
- 2 Tbsp finely grated Parmesan (about 30 g)
- 1 1/2 tsp honey (about 7.5 ml)
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt (about 2.5 g)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped dried sweetened cranberries, divided (about 75 g)
- 3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, divided
- 1 tsp finely chopped fresh thyme leaves (about 5 g)
- Assorted crackers, for serving
Step-by-Step Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log Recipe
Creating your own Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log is straightforward and fun! Follow these easy steps:
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Toast the Walnuts: In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts, stirring occasionally, until they’re fragrant, about 5 minutes. Be careful not to let them burn. Once toasted, let them cool and then finely chop.
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Mix the Cheese: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and softened butter. Mix them together using a spatula until smooth and creamy.
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Add Flavor: To the cheese mixture, add the grated Parmesan, honey, kosher salt, 1/4 cup of the chopped cranberries, 1/2 tsp of ground black pepper, and 1/4 cup of the toasted walnuts. Stir well until everything is combined.
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Form the Log: Transfer the cheese mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Shape it into an 8-inch log (about 20 cm) and wrap it tightly. Refrigerate until firm, approximately 1 hour.
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Prepare the Coating: On a plate, combine the remaining thyme, 1/4 cup of cranberries, 1/4 cup of toasted walnuts, and 1/4 tsp of black pepper.
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Coat the Log: Once the cheese log has firmed up, unwrap it and roll it in the cranberry mixture. Gently press the mixture onto the log, ensuring that the ends are coated as well.
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Serve: Transfer the cheese log to a serving platter. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to soften, or cover it loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 week. Serve with your choice of crackers.
Serve & Enjoy Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log
Serving this cheese log is all about presentation and pairing. Arrange it on a large platter, surrounded by an assortment of your favorite crackers. You can also add sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast. If you’re feeling fancy, consider drizzling a bit of honey on top or garnishing with extra sprigs of fresh thyme. This colorful display makes it an inviting appetizer that will be a delight for your guests!
Expert Tips for Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log
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Make Ahead: This cheese log can be made a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Rolling it in the coating just before serving will keep it fresh.
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Nut Alternatives: If you have nut allergies, feel free to substitute the walnuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy element.
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Spice It Up: For a little added zest, consider mixing in some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the cheese log?
Yes, you can freeze the cheese log before coating it. Wrap it tightly and store it in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then roll in the coating before serving.
What crackers pair best with this cheese log?
This cheese log pairs well with a variety of crackers! Look for water crackers, savory biscuits, or even whole-grain varieties for a heartier option.
Can I use different herbs?
Absolutely! While thyme works beautifully, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like rosemary or basil for a different flavor profile.
Give this Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log a try for your next gathering! It’s a delightful way to impress your friends and family with tasty and beautiful appetizers. Enjoy!
Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log
Ingredients
Cheese Base
- 1 pkg 8-oz. pkg cream cheese, softened (about 225 g)
- 4 oz. sharp white cheddar, shredded (about 113 g)
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened (about 45 g)
- 2 Tbsp finely grated Parmesan (about 30 g)
Flavoring Ingredients
- 1.5 tsp honey (about 7.5 ml)
- 0.5 tsp kosher salt (about 2.5 g)
- 0.75 tsp freshly ground black pepper, divided
- 1 tsp finely chopped fresh thyme leaves (about 5 g)
- 0.5 cup finely chopped dried sweetened cranberries, divided (about 75 g)
- 0.5 cup raw walnuts (about 60 g) To be toasted
For Serving
- Assorted crackers For serving the cheese log
Instructions
Preparation
- Toast the walnuts in a small skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Let them cool and finely chop.
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and softened butter. Mix with a spatula until smooth and creamy.
- Add the grated Parmesan, honey, kosher salt, 1/4 cup of the chopped cranberries, 1/2 tsp of ground black pepper, and 1/4 cup of the toasted walnuts to the cheese mixture. Stir until combined.
- Transfer the cheese mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Shape into an 8-inch log and wrap tightly. Refrigerate for about 1 hour until firm.
Coating
- On a plate, mix the remaining thyme, 1/4 cup of cranberries, 1/4 cup of toasted walnuts, and 1/4 tsp of black pepper.
- Unwrap the cheese log and roll it in the cranberry mixture, ensuring the ends are also coated.
Serving
- Transfer the cheese log to a serving platter. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to 1 week before serving.
- Serve with an assortment of crackers.
