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Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log Recipe

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  • Author: Sue
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log is a delightful appetizer combining sharp cheddar, tangy pineapple, tart cranberries, and a crunchy pecan crust. It offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy textures, making it an ideal crowd-pleaser for any holiday gathering. Serve chilled with crackers, sliced baguette, or crisp veggie sticks for a colorful and flavorful start to your festive meal.

Ingredients

Cheese Mixture

  • 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 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Coating and Garnish

  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and well blended to form a creamy base.
  2. Add Flavorful Ingredients: Stir in the drained crushed pineapple, chopped dried cranberries, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  3. Shape the Cheese Log: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the center and shape it gently into a log using your hands or a spatula.
  4. Chill the Cheese Log: Wrap the shaped log tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up and for the flavors to meld.
  5. Coat with Pecans: Once firm, remove the cheese log from the plastic wrap. Roll the log in the chopped pecans, pressing lightly to ensure the nuts adhere well.
  6. Serve: Transfer the pecan-coated cheese log to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve alongside crackers, baguette slices, or veggie sticks for a festive appetizer.

Notes

  • Drain the Pineapple Well: Excess moisture can make the cheese log soggy. Press the crushed pineapple gently through a mesh sieve or paper towel to remove as much liquid as possible.
  • Use Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened prior to mixing to avoid lumps and achieve a creamy, smooth texture.
  • Chill Thoroughly: Refrigeration for at least 2 hours is essential to help flavors meld and to make the log firm enough for slicing and coating.

Find it online: https://suerecipe.com/pineapple-cranberry-holiday-cheese-log-recipe/