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Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log

Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log: A Festive Make-Ahead Treat

Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log is a stunning vegetarian appetizer that's easy to make ahead, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Base
  • 1 cup Fresh Cranberries Can substitute with frozen cranberries if out of season.
  • 8 oz Goat Cheese Provides creaminess and tang.
  • 4 oz Cream Cheese Ensure it's softened for easy mixing.
For the Coating
  • 1 cup Pistachios Shelled, roasted, and salted for the best texture.
  • 2 tbsp Honey Adds sweetness; maple syrup can be an alternative.
For Flavor Enhancement
  • 1 tsp Dried Thyme Essential for flavor.
  • 1 tsp Dried Rosemary Adjust based on personal preference.
  • 1/2 tsp Ground Ginger Introduce warmth, adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 tsp Ground Cinnamon Can be moderated depending on preference.
  • to taste Salt Essential for flavor.
  • to taste Pepper Essential for flavor.

Equipment

  • food processor
  • Medium bowl
  • plastic wrap
  • parchment paper
  • Hand mixer

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Begin by pulsing fresh cranberries and shelled pistachios in a food processor until finely chopped, ensuring they resemble small pieces.
  2. In a separate medium bowl, combine half of the chopped cranberries and pistachios with softened goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, and your choice of dried thyme and rosemary. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. Lay out a piece of plastic wrap, scoop the cheese mixture onto the center, shape into a log, and freeze for 20-30 minutes.
  4. After chilling, remove the cheese log from the freezer and unwrap it. Roll the log in the remaining chopped cranberries and pistachios until coated.
  5. Wrap the coated log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes and drizzle with honey.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 5gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure the cheese log is semi-soft before coating to help toppings adhere. Feel free to experiment with herbs and nuts for a unique twist.

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