If you’re looking to wow your guests with something that’s as delicious as it is festive, the Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log is your new best friend for holiday entertaining. This charming appetizer combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the vibrant tartness of cranberries, all enveloped in creamy, dreamy cream cheese and rolled in crunchy pecans for that perfect bite. It’s a simple yet stunning addition to any party platter that’s guaranteed to get everyone reaching for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log is made from straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each one plays a key role in balancing the sweet, tart, creamy, and crunchy elements that make this cheese log so memorable.
- 8 ounces cream cheese: The rich and smooth base that binds all flavors together luxuriously.
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained: Adds juicy tropical sweetness and a subtle tang to enliven the mixture.
- ½ cup dried cranberries: These provide chewy bursts of tartness that brighten every bite.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: Rolled on the outside for a satisfying crunch, adding texture and a toasty nuttiness.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a gentle, savory undertone without overpowering the fruity flavors.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall depth, offering a mild, aromatic touch to the cheese log.
How to Make Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log
Step 1: Combine the Creamy Base
Start by placing the cream cheese in a mixing bowl, making sure it’s softened so it blends easily. Add the drained crushed pineapple, dried cranberries, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined, allowing all those delightful flavors to mingle.
Step 2: Shape the Cheese Log
Once your mixture is perfectly blended, scoop it onto a sheet of plastic wrap. With your hands, form it into a neat log shape. Wrapping it tightly will help it hold together as it chills.
Step 3: Chill to Set
Pop the wrapped log into the refrigerator for at least two hours. This step is crucial because chilling firms up the mixture, making it easier to coat and slice later on.
Step 4: Roll in Pecans
After the log has set and feels firm to the touch, unwrap it and roll it generously in chopped pecans. The nuts stick to the creamy exterior, creating a lovely crunchy coating that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
Step 5: Ready to Serve!
Your Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log is now ready to shine at your next holiday gathering. Slice and serve with your favorite crackers or fresh fruit for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
How to Serve Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log
Garnishes
Adding a few thoughtful garnishes can elevate the already stunning Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log. Consider sprigs of fresh rosemary or a sprinkle of finely chopped green onions to add pops of color and subtle fresh notes that complement the fruit and nuts.
Side Dishes
This cheese log pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Try serving it alongside an assortment of crackers, crisp apple slices, or even some sliced cucumber. The contrast between creamy, crunchy, sweet, and fresh makes every bite a joy for the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can be half the fun! Instead of the classic log, you could mold the mixture into festive shapes, like a wreath or small balls rolled in pecans. Placing your cheese log on a charming wooden board surrounded by fresh fruit and nuts will make it an irresistible centerpiece that invites guests to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers — though it rarely happens — simply wrap the cheese log tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh and flavorful for up to 5 days, making for easy snacking or a quick addition to your grazing table.
Freezing
While the Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log tastes best fresh, you can freeze it for longer storage. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving and re-coating with pecans if necessary.
Reheating
This recipe is designed to be served chilled, so reheating isn’t recommended. Serving the cheese log cold maintains its perfect creamy texture and crisp nutty exterior, providing the best eating experience.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries are quite tart and juicy, which may throw off the texture and moisture balance in the cheese log. Dried cranberries offer chewy sweetness that blends seamlessly, but if you want to experiment, use fresh cranberries sparingly and consider drying them first to avoid excess moisture.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for cream cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute cream cheese with a plant-based, dairy-free cream cheese to make this appetizer suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan. Just ensure the brand you choose has a tangy flavor profile to mimic the traditional cream cheese taste.
Can I substitute pecans with another nut?
Yes, walnuts or almonds work wonderfully as a substitute for pecans. They provide a similar crunch and flavor profile. Just toast them lightly first for the best flavor.
How far in advance can I prepare this cheese log?
This Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log can be made a day ahead or even the morning of your event. Longer chilling helps the flavors meld beautifully, so preparing ahead is a great idea for stress-free entertaining.
What’s the best way to serve it to guests?
Slicing the log into even rounds and arranging them on a pretty platter with an assortment of crackers and fresh fruit is always a hit. You can also provide small spreader knives for easy serving. It’s a visually inviting and delicious way to welcome friends and family to your holiday spread.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyful about sharing the Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log during the holidays — it’s flavorful, festive, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned host or looking to try a new appetizer, this cheese log will bring smiles and savory-sweet satisfaction to your celebration. Give it a go and watch it become a beloved tradition in your holiday repertoire!
PrintPineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log
A delightful and easy-to-make cheese log that blends the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the tartness of cranberries, perfect as a festive appetizer for holiday gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Coating
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese, crushed pineapple, dried cranberries, garlic powder, and onion powder until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly combined.
- Shape the Log: Form the cheese mixture into a log shape and tightly wrap it with plastic wrap to maintain its form.
- Chill: Refrigerate the wrapped cheese log for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up completely.
- Coat with Pecans: Once the cheese log is firm, unwrap and roll it in the chopped pecans to coat evenly.
- Serve: Present the cheese log with your choice of crackers or fresh fruit for a festive and flavorful appetizer.
Notes
- This cheese log can be prepared a day in advance to enhance flavor development.
- Walnuts can be used as an alternative to pecans for the coating.