Description
This Orange Cranberry Cheese Log is a delightful and festive appetizer combining creamy cheeses with the bright flavors of orange and the tartness of cranberries. Perfect for gatherings, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, offering a beautiful and tasty addition to any party spread.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened (or more cream cheese for a milder flavor)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
- ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Cheeses: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and goat cheese (or additional cream cheese if preferred). Beat with a hand mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Citrus and Sweetener: Add the orange zest, fresh orange juice, honey, and vanilla extract to the cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform.
- Mix in Cranberries and Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries and optional toasted pecans or walnuts, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
- Shape the Cheese Log: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the center, then use the edges of the plastic wrap to shape the mixture into a log. Twist the ends of the wrap tightly to seal it and maintain the log shape.
- Refrigerate: Place the wrapped cheese log in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 to 3 hours to allow it to firm up and the flavors to meld.
- Garnish: Before serving, unwrap the log and, if desired, roll it in additional chopped cranberries, toasted nuts, and fresh parsley to add extra texture and visual appeal.
- Serve: Present the cheese log with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables, and enjoy this creamy, flavorful appetizer.
Notes
- The goat cheese can be substituted fully with cream cheese for a milder flavor.
- To toast nuts, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
- The cheese log can be made up to 24 hours in advance and kept refrigerated.
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts.
- Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best citrus flavor.
- Ensure the cream cheese and goat cheese are softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
