Pin It 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 been a hit at every holiday gathering I've hosted, always earning rave reviews for its beautiful presentation and delicious flavors.
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 (optional): 1 tablespoon, finely chopped
- 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.
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This recipe always brings my family together, sharing laughs while assembling and enjoying every bite!
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
Nutritional Information
Calories 180 Total Fat 11 g Carbohydrates 14 g Protein 7 g
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This appetizer is perfect for any occasion and so simple to customize with your favorite nuts and fruits.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How can I make a nut-free version?
Simply omit the nuts and replace them with extra dried cranberries or pumpkin seeds for a similar texture and flavor.
- → What are good alternatives to honey for drizzling?
Fig or apricot preserves work well as sweet alternatives, adding unique flavors to complement the cheese logs.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, assemble the cheese logs with coatings ahead of time, but add fresh accompaniments and honey just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What wine pairs nicely with this spread?
A crisp white wine or sparkling rosé complements the creamy cheese and sweet-tart cranberries beautifully.
- → Are there gluten-free options included?
Yes, using gluten-free crackers and bread ensures the spread remains gluten-free friendly for all guests.