Description
This Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log is a delightful and elegant appetizer featuring a creamy cheese blend studded with tart dried cranberries and crunchy roasted pistachios. Perfectly balanced with a touch of honey and fresh parsley, this no-cook cheese log is easy to prepare ahead and makes a stunning addition to any party platter.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 oz goat cheese or mascarpone (optional)
Mix-ins and Toppings
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup roasted pistachios, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey, plus more for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare Cheese: Let the cream cheese and optional goat cheese or mascarpone come to room temperature to ensure smooth mixing.
- Mix Cheese: In a mixing bowl, beat the cheese until it becomes smooth and fluffy, creating a creamy base.
- Add Mix-ins: Fold in half of the chopped pistachios, dried cranberries, 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley, and 1 tablespoon of honey evenly into the cheese mixture.
- Shape and Chill: Shape the cheese mixture into a log on a piece of plastic wrap. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the log to firm up.
- Coat Cheese Log: Unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it in the remaining pistachios, dried cranberries, and parsley for an attractive and flavorful coating.
- Final Touch: Drizzle lightly with additional honey before serving for a touch of sweetness and shine.
- Serve: Present your cheese log with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh apple and pear slices as a delicious appetizer.
Notes
- For a tangier flavor, use goat cheese instead of mascarpone or only cream cheese.
- Make the cheese log a day ahead to deepen flavors.
- Use wax or parchment paper instead of plastic wrap if preferred.
- Try adding a pinch of black pepper or orange zest for an extra flavor dimension.
- Store leftovers tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
