Description
This Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log is a quick appetizer that feels festive, creamy, and full of flavor. Made with tangy cream cheese, sharp cheddar, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy pistachios, it is an easy recipe for holiday entertaining, party food ideas, snack boards, and simple make-ahead appetizers that look beautiful on the table.
Ingredients
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
2 tablespoons green onions, finely sliced
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
1. Add the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese to a mixing bowl, then stir until smooth and fully combined.
2. Mix in the honey, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and green onions until evenly distributed.
3. Fold in the chopped dried cranberries so they are spread throughout the cheese mixture.
4. Transfer the mixture onto plastic wrap and shape it into a rough log, then wrap tightly and refrigerate for 1 hour or until firm.
5. Combine the chopped pistachios and parsley on a plate or shallow dish.
6. Unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it in the pistachio mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks on all sides.
7. Return the coated cheese log to the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes to firm up again before serving.
8. Place on a serving platter and serve with crackers, crostini, pretzels, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy texture and shape.
Chill the cheese mixture well before coating so the log stays neat and easy to handle.
Roll in the pistachio coating shortly before serving for the freshest crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 186
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 214mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 38mg
Keywords: cranberry pistachio cheese log, holiday appetizer, easy appetizer, party food ideas, cheese log recipe, make ahead appetizer, festive cheese ball alternative, snack board appetizer