I absolutely love sharing this Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log Recipe with friends and family during the festive season. It’s one of those appetizers that instantly brightens up any gathering with its vibrant colors and perfect balance of sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy textures. Every bite is a delightful surprise, combining sharp cheddar, juicy pineapple, tart cranberries, and a crunchy pecan crust that simply melts in your mouth. This cheese log has become my go-to recipe to bring a little extra joy and flavor to holiday celebrations.

Why You'll Love This Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log Recipe

When I first tried this Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log Recipe, I was amazed at how all the flavors came together so beautifully. The sharp cheddar brings that familiar richness that I crave, while the pineapple adds juicy sweetness without being overpowering. Then there’s the dried cranberries, which add a bright tartness that awakens your palate with every bite. The pecan coating provides just the right amount of crunch, creating a wonderful contrast to the creamy cheese blend inside. It’s a harmony of tastes and textures that never fails to impress my guests.

One of the reasons I keep coming back to this recipe is how incredibly simple it is to make. With minimal ingredients that you probably already have on hand, it doesn’t require much prep work beyond mixing, shaping, and chilling. I especially appreciate that chilling step, which really lets the flavors meld together while making it easy to slice and serve. It’s a no-fuss recipe that delivers so much in terms of flavor and presentation, perfect for anyone who wants something festive but fuss-free.

I find this recipe shines brightest at holiday parties, family get-togethers, and casual celebrations where finger foods rule the table. It stands out because of its unique combination of sweet and savory flavors that you don’t often see in cheese appetizers. Plus, it looks stunning when you bring it out garnished with fresh parsley and surrounded by colorful crackers or sliced baguette. Every time I serve this Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log Recipe, people ask for seconds and I love telling them it’s an easy homemade favorite!

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows a group of white bowls and plates placed on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a white bowl filled with shredded yellow cheese. To the left, a block of white crumbly cheese sits on the surface next to a bowl holding small white cheese cubes. Around the center bowl, smaller bowls contain different items: chopped green onions in one, shelled walnuts in another, pecans in a larger bowl, dried cranberries in a bowl nearby, a small bowl of coarse salt, and a small bowl with mixed spices. In the background, a blurred bunch of green parsley adds a fresh touch. The light is soft and natural, highlighting the different textures and colors of the ingredients photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log Recipe are simple yet thoughtfully chosen to create layers of flavor and texture that make this appetizer special. Each component plays a crucial role, from the creamy base of cream cheese to the sharp punch of cheddar, balanced by sweet pineapple and tart cranberries. The pecans add hearty crunch and a toasty finish that really elevates the whole dish.

TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Cream cheese: Make sure it is softened to achieve a smooth, creamy texture without lumps.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Shredded for easy mixing, it provides a bold, savory flavor.
Crushed pineapple: Drained well to avoid sogginess while adding natural sweetness.
Dried cranberries: Chopped to distribute bursts of tangy flavor throughout.
Green onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and bright color.
Chopped pecans: Used as a coating to add crunch and a toasty nutty taste.
Garlic powder and onion powder: These spices deepen the flavor profile with subtle savory notes.
Salt and pepper: To taste, balancing the flavors perfectly.
Fresh parsley: For garnish, adding a touch of green and herbaceous freshness.

Directions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir them together until you get a smooth, well-blended mixture with no lumps remaining.

Step 2: Add the drained crushed pineapple, chopped dried cranberries, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly so that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the cheese base.

Step 3: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on a clean, flat surface. Spoon the cheese mixture into the center and, using your hands or a spatula, shape it into a tight log.

Step 4: Wrap the log tightly with the plastic wrap to keep it secure and shape intact. Pop it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to chill. This step is essential to firm up the log and let the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Once firm and chilled, unwrap the cheese log carefully. Spread the chopped pecans on a plate, then roll the log gently in the pecans, pressing lightly so they stick evenly on all sides.

Step 6: Transfer the pecan-coated log to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or crisp veggie sticks and watch your guests dig in!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings, making it perfect for medium-sized gatherings or holiday parties. The prep time is about 15 to 20 minutes, mostly spent assembling the cheese mixture and shaping the log. The all-important chill time is at least 2 hours to ensure firmness and flavor development, bringing the total time to 2 hours and 15 minutes. There is no cooking time, which is great for throwing together a last-minute appetizer with lots of flair.

How to Serve This Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log Recipe

A white plate holds a round cheese ball with two layers: the inner layer is creamy white cheese, the outer layer is covered with chopped dark red dried cranberries mixed with small green herb pieces. Next to it, a white round cracker is partially spread with the same cheese and cranberry mixture. In the background, there is a small white bowl with golden honey and a wooden honey dipper resting on it. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with a green textured cloth in the bottom right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When serving this Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log Recipe, I love to arrange it on a festive platter surrounded by an assortment of crackers and sliced baguette. The crispiness of bread and crackers pairs beautifully with the creamy interior and crunchy pecan crust. For a healthier twist, crisp vegetable sticks like celery, carrot, and bell pepper work wonderfully too, adding vibrant color and fresh crunch.

Garnishing is where you can get creative! I usually sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the log right before serving; it adds a lovely leafy green contrast that makes the whole presentation pop. If I’m feeling fancy, a few whole pecans around the base look elegant and inviting. I recommend serving the cheese log chilled or at room temperature so the flavors really shine without the cheese becoming too firm or too soft.

For beverage pairings, I’m a fan of light white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or even a sparkling wine that cuts through the richness of the cheese while complementing the fruity notes from pineapple and cranberries. If you prefer cocktails, a refreshing gin and tonic or a cranberry mule feels festive and pairs nicely. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water infused with citrus or berry flavors is perfect, especially for holiday gatherings where there are guests of all ages.

Variations

I’ve found this Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log Recipe to be incredibly versatile, so I love experimenting with subtle tweaks. For instance, swapping sharp cheddar with gouda or smoked gouda adds a different depth of flavor that’s still delicious. If you want a stronger bite, a bit of crumbled blue cheese mixed in can pleasantly surprise your taste buds.

If you need a gluten-free option, simply serve the cheese log with gluten-free crackers or vegetable sticks, as the recipe itself has no gluten-containing ingredients. For vegan adaptations, I recommend using plant-based cream cheese and vegan shredded cheese alternatives, and replacing pecans with toasted pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version that still has great crunch.

Sometimes I’ve also tried mixing up the dried fruit by substituting cranberries with chopped dried apricots or cherries for a sweeter note. Another creative twist is adding a hint of spice like cayenne or smoked paprika to give the cheese log a little kick. While I usually keep this recipe fresh and chilled, I’ve played with baking it as a warm appetizer by rolling the log in pecans, chilling it, then baking at 350°F for 15 minutes for a melty, nutty treat.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of this Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log Recipe, I always store them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s important to keep it covered well to maintain the creamy texture and prevent it from drying out. Stored properly, it will keep fresh for up to 4 days, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the remaining creamy goodness.

Freezing

Freezing this cheese log is possible but not always ideal because the texture of cream cheese-based appetizers can change once thawed. If you want to freeze it, wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for extra protection. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. When thawing, move it to the fridge overnight and use within a day for best quality.

Reheating

This recipe is best served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is generally unnecessary. If you do want to serve it warm, I suggest baking the cheese log before serving rather than reheating leftovers. Warm reheated cream cheese can separate and become oily. Instead, allow leftovers to come to room temperature naturally for about 30 minutes after removing from the fridge, which helps soften the cheese without compromising texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned crushed pineapple?

Yes, you can definitely use fresh pineapple if you prefer. Just be sure to finely chop it and drain it very well to remove excess moisture. Too much liquid will make the cheese log soggy, so pressing the pineapple in a sieve or paper towels before adding it is key to keeping the texture just right.

How long should I chill the cheese log before serving?

At least 2 hours of refrigeration is essential to allow the flavors to meld and the log to firm up enough for slicing and rolling in pecans. If you have more time, chilling overnight only improves the taste and makes handling even easier.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! This Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log Recipe is fantastic for make-ahead preparations. You can assemble it the day before, chill it overnight, then roll it in pecans just before serving for a fresh, crunchy coating. It makes hosting much less stressful.

What should I serve this cheese log with?

I love offering a variety of crackers, baguette slices, and fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, cucumbers, or bell peppers alongside this cheese log. It’s all about having some crunch to complement the creamy, fruity cheese. You can also pair it with some sweet chutneys or jams for an extra flavor boost.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly since it contains no meat or gelatin. Just make sure to check that your cheeses are made with vegetarian rennet if that is a concern, as some cheeses use animal-derived rennet.

Conclusion

I truly hope you’ll give this Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log Recipe a try at your next celebration. It’s one of those dishes that never fails to bring smiles and wonderful feedback from guests. Easy to prepare, packed with vibrant flavors, and stunning to look at, it’s a festive appetizer you can be proud to serve. Trust me, once you make it, this cheese log will become a beloved holiday staple in your kitchen too!