This post contains affiliate links. Please see our disclosure policy.
Wow your guests with this festive Cranberry Cheese Log that is as gorgeous as it is delicious. Made with only six ingredients, it’s a creamy blend of cheddar, cream cheese, and cranberry relish, rolled in pistachios and dried cranberries.
Festive Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log
When I want a show-stopping appetizer, I always make this cranberry cheese log. It is simple to make and looks so festive. I love that I can make it ahead of time, so all I have to do is set it out when the time is right. It’s a recipe that feels fancy without being fussy, which we all know is a must-have during the busy holiday season.
Ingredients and Substitutions
Here is everything you need to make this cranberry cheese log, and some substitution recommendations.
- 8 oz cream cheese – The creamy base that holds everything together. Use goat cheese for a tangier option.
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese – You can use Colby Jack or Gouda for a milder taste.
- ¼ cup cranberry relish – This can be homemade or store-bought.
- 1 Tablespoon orange zest – The citrus flavor brightens the dish. Lemon zest will work as a substitute.
- 1 cup dried cranberries – Gives the dish its signature festive color and tart flavor.
- 1 cup shelled pistachios – Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Use pecans or walnuts as an alternative.
How To Make A Cranberry Cheese Log
Beat the cream cheese, stir in the other ingredients, form into a log, and then roll in the topping, wrap, and chill.
Let me show you how:
- Make the base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy.
- Mix in flavors: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, cranberry relish, and orange zest until thoroughly combined.
- Shape: Form the cheese mixture into a log or a ball, depending on your preference.
- Prepare the coating: Spread the chopped cranberries and pistachios evenly over a baking sheet or large cutting board.
- Roll and coat: Roll the cheese log in the cranberry-pistachio mixture until fully coated. Gently press the coating in so it sticks.
- Chill and serve: Wrap the cheese log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up. Unwrap and place on a serving board with crackers. Drizzle with honey just before serving, if desired.
Top Recipe Tips
- Use block cream cheese for the smoothest, richest texture (not whipped cream cheese).
- Grate your own sharp cheddar if possible—it melts into the mixture better than pre-shredded.
- For a neat, professional look, dampen your hands lightly when shaping the log to prevent sticking.
Cranberry Cheese Log
Equipment
- large mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups & spoons
- baking sheet
- Knife
Ingredients
Cheese Log
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup cranberry relish, homemade or store-bought
- 1 Tablespoon orange zest
Coating
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
For Serving
- honey, optional
Instructions
- Beat cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and fluffy.
- Stir in cheese, cranberry relish, and orange zest until well combined.
- Form cheese mixture into a log or ball.
- Chop cranberries and pistachios and spread evenly on a baking sheet or working surface.
- Roll cheese log in cranberry and pistachio coating.
- Wrap in plastic wrap.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Serve with crackers of your choice.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Cranberry Cheese Log FAQs
Yes, that’s the beauty of this recipe. Make it a day or two in advance, wrap it, and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.
I like to serve it with crackers, baguettes, pretzel crisps, or even apple and pear slices.
Some of my favorites include buttery crackers like Ritz, whole wheat crackers, or any other sturdy cracker, such as Crunchmaster seeded crackers.
More Appetizers
