Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Log Style

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Log — Elegant & Festive Holiday Appetizer

If you want your appetizer to feel extra elegant and serve more easily, turning a cheese ball into a cheese log is a smart move. A Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Log offers all the same creamy, nutty, and tangy flavor, but in a shape that’s easy to slice and present. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings where you want to impress — Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s — all while saving some effort.

This twist gives you the visual appeal of a rustic “yule log” style centerpiece and the convenience of pre-cut portions. Combine it with crackers, fruit, and savory bites, and you’ve got a beautiful spread that keeps guests happy.

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Why Choose a Log Shape?

• Easier slicing — pre-cut slices make serving simple

• Elegant presentation — it looks refined and intentionally styled

• Same flavors, same ease — just a different shape

• Make-ahead friendly — shape it, chill it, roll it, serve it

You get the benefit of a cheese ball’s flavors but with the form factor of a log. Let’s make one.

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Ingredients (Serves ~12–14)

For Coating / Garnish:

• Extra chopped pecans

• Extra chopped cranberries

• Fresh herbs (parsley, rosemary, thyme)

For Serving / Accompaniments:

• Crackers (regular or gluten-free)

• Crisp bread slices or crostini

• Apple or pear slices

• Vegetable sticks (celery, cucumber, bell pepper)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Soften the Cream Cheese

Let the cream cheese sit out for 30 minutes so it becomes easier to blend smoothly.

2. Toast & Chop Pecans

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for 3–5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring often. Let cool, then chop coarsely.

3. Mix the Cheese Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Stir or beat until creamy and consistent. Make sure no lumps remain.

4. Fold in Flavor Add-Ins

Gently mix in chopped cranberries, chopped pecans, green onions, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional sweetener. Combine until uniform without overworking.

5. Shape into a Log

Place a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment on your work surface. Spoon the mixture into it, then use the wrap’s edges to help you roll it into a log shape (about 8–10 inches long). Press gently to smooth the surface.

6. Chill to Firm

Wrap the log tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight. This step lets the flavors meld and gives the log structure.

7. Prepare the Coating

Mix extra chopped pecans, cranberries, and herbs in a shallow plate. Unwrap the chilled log and roll it gently in the coating so it adheres evenly.

8. Garnish & Slice

Place the coated log on a serving board. Garnish with fresh herbs, extra nuts, or cranberries along the sides. Use a sharp knife to slice into about ½-inch thick pieces for serving.

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Tips & Variations

• Soft herb logs: Mix softened cream cheese with fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or chives and skip the nuts for a simpler version.

• Nut alternative: Use walnuts, almonds, or pistachios if pecans aren’t available.

• Fruit twist: Replace cranberries with dried cherries or apricots, or mix in some citrus zest.

• Sweet-savory balance: Omit the optional sweetener if your cranberries are already sweet.

• Mini logs: Form into smaller logs and slice earlier — great for bite plate style.

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Serving Ideas & Presentation

• Place the cheese log at the center of a charcuterie board

• Fan out cracker slices, pieces of toast, fruits, and veggies around it

• Scatter extra nuts, herbs, and cranberries for visual appeal

• Use sprigs of rosemary or small pine branches for seasonal decoration

• Provide small spread knives for guests to serve themselves

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Make-Ahead & Storage

• You can shape and refrigerate the log up to 24 hours before serving.

• Add the coating just before serving to keep textures crisp.

• Wrap leftovers tightly and refrigerate. Use within 4–5 days.

• Avoid freezing — the texture tends to change upon thawing.

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Nutritional Estimate (Approximate per Slice)

Assuming ~12 slices:

• Calories: ~190–210

• Fat: ~16–18 g

• Protein: ~5–6 g

• Carbohydrates: ~4–6 g

• Sugar: ~2–3 g

• Fiber: ~1 g

Because dried cranberries vary in sugar content, your carb count may shift depending on the brand you use.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cheese log gluten-free?
Yes — all ingredients are naturally gluten-free (but check packaged items). The log shape doesn’t change that.

Can I make this dairy-free or vegan?
Yes — swap in plant-based cream cheese and vegan cheese alternatives. Adjust texture and flavor with herbs and nuts.

What’s the advantage of a log vs. a ball?
A log is easier to slice, dish out, and present in neat portions. It also looks elegant on boards.

How far ahead can I make it?
You can prep and wrap it a day in advance. Keep it chilled until serving.

Can I miniaturize it?
Yes — make short logs or small rounds for individual servings.

What if the mixture is too soft?
Chill it longer before shaping or add a bit more shredded cheese to help it hold form.

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Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Holiday Collection

The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Log combines flavor, form, and flair. It offers the richness of a classic cheese ball but with a refined log shape that’s easier to slice and visually striking. Its make-ahead nature and adaptability make it a stress-reducing favorite during the holidays.

Serve it proudly, watch it vanish, and enjoy the compliments — because this appetizer does more than taste good. It elevates your holiday board in both flavor and presentation.

Here’s to festive snacking and memorable gatherings!