Description
This Orange Cranberry Cheese Log is a creamy and flavorful appetizer combining tangy cream cheese, goat cheese, fresh citrus, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy nuts. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, it’s easy to prepare and beautifully presented, offering a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened (or an additional 4 oz cream cheese for a milder flavor)
Flavorings
- 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 (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Combine Cheeses. In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and goat cheese (or additional cream cheese) using a hand mixer until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add Citrus and Sweeteners. Add the orange zest, fresh orange juice, honey, and vanilla extract to the cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly to fully incorporate all the ingredients for a consistent flavor throughout.
- Mix in Add-ins. Fold in the chopped dried cranberries and optional toasted nuts gently into the cheese mixture, distributing them evenly without breaking them down.
- Shape the Cheese Log. Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap. Using the plastic wrap, shape the cheese mixture into a log by rolling and shaping with your hands. Twist the ends of the wrap tightly to seal the log.
- Chill the Cheese Log. Place the wrapped cheese log in the refrigerator for at least 2 to 3 hours to firm up and allow the flavors to meld together.
- Optional Garnish. Before serving, unwrap the cheese log and optionally roll it in additional chopped dried cranberries, toasted nuts, and fresh parsley for extra texture, color, and flavor.
- Serve. Slice the cheese log or serve whole alongside crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables as a delicious appetizer.
Notes
- For a milder cheese flavor, substitute the goat cheese with an equal amount of cream cheese.
- Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and adds a pleasant crunch to the cheese log.
- The cheese log can be made a day ahead and stored tightly wrapped in the refrigerator.
- Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best citrus flavor.
- Serve with a variety of crackers or fresh veggie sticks for a well-rounded appetizer platter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
