I love a show-stopping appetizer that’s fast to make and looks like you spent hours on it. This Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log delivers bright tart cranberries, crunchy pistachios, and creamy cheese in a festive roll that’s perfect for holidays. I first tested this for a holiday potluck and found the balance of textures keeps people coming back for more.
Why Make This Recipe
- It’s visually stunning but quick to assemble — prepped in about 15 minutes and chilled.
- Flavor contrast: tangy cranberries and citrus zest brighten rich, creamy cheese.
- Great make-ahead appetizer: you can assemble a day ahead for less stress.
- Nutritious touches: pistachios add heart-healthy fats and protein for a more satisfying bite.
- Personal note: I love this because it travels well and still looks fresh after an hour on the table.
Recipe Overview
- Prep time: 15 minutes (+ 1 hour chill)
- Cook time: 0 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling)
- Servings: 10–12 appetizer portions
- Difficulty: Easy
- Method: Cold assembly — mix, shape, chill, and roll in nuts/cranberries
My Experience Making This Recipe
I tested the log multiple times to get the texture and coating right. At first the log was too soft, so I increased chill time to 1 hour and the shape held perfectly. I also learned that finely chopped pistachios adhere better than coarsely chopped ones.
How to Make Irresistible Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log
Start by softening 8 ounces (225 g) full-fat cream cheese at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes so it’s easy to whip. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese with 4 ounces (115 g) goat cheese (optional for tang), 2 tablespoons honey, 1 teaspoon orange zest, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt until smooth with a rubber spatula or handheld mixer. Fold in 1/3 cup finely chopped dried cranberries and 1/4 cup finely chopped pistachios using a spatula.
Turn the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment, shape into a cylinder roughly 8 inches long and 2–3 inches wide, then wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Unwrap and roll the chilled log in a mixture of 1/2 cup coarsely chopped shelled pistachios and 1/4 cup finely chopped dried cranberries, pressing gently to adhere. Slice with a sharp knife and serve chilled. Use a cheese plane or thin-bladed knife warmed under hot water and dried between cuts for clean slices.
Expert Tips for Success
- Use full-fat cream cheese for best texture; low-fat versions can be grainy.
- Soften but don’t melt the cheese; room temperature for 20–30 minutes is ideal.
- Chop pistachios by hand for better texture control; a quick pulse in a food processor works but watch for turning them into a paste.
- Chill the log at least 1 hour — chilled cheese holds shape and slices cleaner.
- For razor-sharp slices, run the knife under hot water, dry it, and slice in one smooth motion.
How to Serve Irresistible Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log
- Offer an assortment of crackers and toasted baguette slices for different textures.
- Pair with honey, fig jam, or whole-grain mustard for contrast. I also love serving it alongside a simple cranberry cream cheese spread for guests who want more fruit-forward options.
- Garnish the platter with fresh rosemary sprigs and extra chopped pistachios for color.
- Serve at holiday parties, cocktail hours, or as part of a buffet — it’s easy to portion and elegant.
Storage and Reheating Guide
- Refrigerate: Store wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep chilled until serving.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic and then foil; freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before unwrapping and rolling in nuts.
- Reheating: This is a cold appetizer — do not heat. If slightly firm from the fridge, remove 10–15 minutes before serving so it’s easier to slice.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-free: Serve with gluten-free crackers and ensure packed dried cranberries have no added gluten-containing ingredients.
- Dairy-free / vegan: Substitute 8 oz vegan cream cheese and 4 oz cashew-based soft cheese; use maple syrup instead of honey. Chill longer for firming.
- Extra-herb savory: Mix in 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives and 1 teaspoon lemon zest; roll in chopped fresh herbs and pistachios.
- Spiced-sweet: Add 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese for a warm holiday aroma.
Nutritional Highlights
- Pistachios deliver monounsaturated fats and protein, making bites more satisfying.
- Cranberries add antioxidants and bright flavor but watch for added sugars in dried varieties.
- Allergen info: contains dairy and tree nuts (pistachios). Serve with allergen-free options for guests with sensitivities. For portioning, plan on about 1–2 ounces (28–56 g) per guest as an appetizer.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Too soft to shape: Chill the mixture for 20–30 minutes in the fridge, then reshape on the plastic wrap. If still soft, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of finely grated Parmesan or extra goat cheese to firm slightly.
- Nuts won’t stick: Lightly brush the log with a thin coating of honey or beaten egg white (if serving immediately) to help the coating adhere, then press nuts firmly and chill.
- Crumbly texture: Overworked or too-cold cheese can crumble. Warm briefly at room temperature for 10 minutes and gently fold to recombine—avoid vigorous beating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How far ahead can I make the cheese log?
A: You can assemble the log and roll it in nuts up to 24 hours in advance. Wrap tightly and refrigerate; bring it out 10–15 minutes before serving for easier slicing. For longer storage, freeze up to 1 month and thaw in the fridge overnight.
Q: Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?
A: Yes. Toasted pecans or walnuts add a different flavor and still provide texture. Toast nuts in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 6–8 minutes until fragrant, then cool and chop before coating.
Q: What’s the best knife for slicing the cheese log?
A: Use a long, thin-bladed knife (chef’s knife or slicing knife). Wipe the blade between cuts and warm it under hot water, then dry before slicing to get clean, even rounds.
Q: Can I make individual cheese balls instead of a log?
A: Absolutely. Roll tablespoon-sized portions into balls, chill, and then roll each in the nut/cranberry mixture for bite-sized hors d’oeuvres that are easier to serve at standing parties.
Conclusion
If you enjoy this Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log, you might like similar holiday bites and ideas such as Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Bites | 365 Days of Baking & More and other appetizer collections like Christmas Appetizers to Keep Guests Happy – PinkWhen. For more dinner and party inspiration browse this round-up of recipes at Dinner – recipezed. Looking for broader holiday recipe ideas? Check out 30+ Holiday Recipes for Christmas & New Years – SoupAddict. And if you want a warm, gooey option to serve alongside, try this Stuffed Baked Brie Puff Pastry – Carlsbad Cravings.
Print
Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 appetizer portions 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A visually stunning appetizer made with creamy cheese, tart cranberries, and crunchy pistachios, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounces goat cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup pistachios, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup coarsely chopped shelled pistachios
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped for coating
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese at room temperature for 20–30 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese with goat cheese, honey, orange zest, and kosher salt until smooth.
- Fold in finely chopped dried cranberries and pistachios.
- Turn the mixture onto plastic wrap and shape into a cylinder, then wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Unwrap the log and roll it in the coarsely chopped pistachios and cranberries, pressing gently to adhere.
- Slice with a sharp knife and serve chilled.
Notes
Chill the log for at least 1 hour for best results. Use a knife warmed under hot water for clean slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Cold Assembly
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg