Pin A festive and flavorful appetizer featuring creamy goat cheese logs coated with sweet dried cranberries and crunchy nuts, beautifully arranged with accompaniments for a stunning board presentation.
This appetizer has always been a hit at our holiday gatherings, bringing a perfect mix of creamy and crunchy textures that everyone loves.
Ingredients
- Cheese Logs: 2 (150 g each) goat cheese logs
- Dried cranberries: 1/2 cup finely chopped
- Pistachios or pecans: 1/3 cup finely chopped
- Fresh parsley: 1 tablespoon finely chopped (optional)
- Board Accompaniments: 1/2 cup seedless red grapes
- Board Accompaniments: 1/2 cup seedless green grapes
- Board Accompaniments: 1/2 cup assorted crackers (gluten-free if needed)
- Board Accompaniments: 1/2 cup toasted baguette slices
- Board Accompaniments: 1/4 cup honey
- Board Accompaniments: 1/4 cup roasted almonds or walnuts
- Board Accompaniments: 1/4 cup sliced cucumbers
- Board Accompaniments: 1/4 cup sliced radishes
- Board Accompaniments: Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a shallow bowl, combine the chopped cranberries, chopped nuts, and parsley (if using).
- Step 2:
- Roll each goat cheese log in the cranberry-nut mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating evenly.
- Step 3:
- Place the coated goat cheese logs on a large serving board.
- Step 4:
- Arrange grapes, crackers, baguette slices, almonds or walnuts, cucumber slices, and radishes around the cheese logs.
- Step 5:
- Drizzle honey over the logs or serve on the side.
- Step 6:
- Garnish the board with fresh rosemary sprigs for a festive touch.
- Step 7:
- Serve immediately, allowing guests to spread cheese on crackers or bread with accompaniments.
Pin This recipe always brings my family together, especially during the holidays when everyone looks forward to sharing it.
Notes
Add dried apricots olives or apple slices for more variety
Required Tools
Sharp knife Cutting board Small bowls for toppings Serving board or platter
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (goat cheese) Tree nuts (pistachios pecans almonds walnuts) Wheat (if using regular crackers or baguette) For gluten-free option use gluten-free crackers and bread Always check product labels for cross-contamination if allergies are a concern
Pin This appetizer is quick to assemble and sure to impress any guest.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of nuts work best for coating?
Pistachios, pecans, almonds, or walnuts all provide a crunchy texture and complement the sweetness of dried cranberries beautifully.
- → Can I prepare this appetizer ahead of time?
Yes, you can roll the cheese logs in the cranberry-nut mixture a few hours before serving, but assemble the board just before guests arrive to keep freshness.
- → Are there any good alternatives to honey for drizzling?
Fig or apricot preserves provide a similar sweetness and pair well with the creamy cheese and fruit elements.
- → How can this be made nut-free?
Simply omit the nuts and use extra dried cranberries or pumpkin seeds to maintain texture and flavor contrast.
- → What beverages pair well with this spread?
Crisp white wines or sparkling rosés complement the creamy and fruity notes, enhancing the festive experience.