The Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log is a festive, tasty treat that’s perfect for any gathering. It’s creamy cheese mixed with crunchy walnuts and tangy cranberries, rolled into a pretty log shape. The combination of smooth, crunchy, and fruity bits makes it a hit every time.
I love making this cheese log when friends come over because it looks so inviting on the snack table. It’s super easy to prepare, and the flavors come together in a way that everyone always asks for the recipe. Plus, I like to make it a day ahead so the flavors really meld.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy the cheese log is spreading it on crispy crackers or warm slices of baguette. It’s great for holiday parties or casual get-togethers, and I find it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings people together around the cheese board.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of the log and makes it smooth and creamy. I suggest using full-fat cream cheese for the best texture. If you want a lighter option, you can try Neufchâtel cheese, but it may be less rich.
Dried Cranberries: They add a sweet-tart flavor and lovely color. You can swap these with dried cherries or raisins if cranberries aren’t available. Just choose a dried fruit you like that adds a bit of tanginess.
Walnuts: These bring crunch and a nutty taste. Pecans or almonds work well as alternatives. Toasting the nuts lightly before adding can boost their flavor, but be careful not to burn them.
Fresh Chives: Chives add a mild oniony kick and fresh green color. If chives aren’t on hand, finely chopped green onions or parsley make good substitutes.
How Do You Shape and Coat the Cheese Log Neatly?
Shaping and coating the log well gives your cheese log a nice presentation and helps it hold together.
- Use plastic wrap laid flat on your surface. Spoon the cheese mix onto it, then gather edges around and roll into a log.
- Roll the wrapped cheese back and forth gently to smooth the surface and create a tight, even shape.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm it up—this step helps it keep shape when rolling in nuts and cranberries.
- Before coating, unwrap carefully and place the log on your nut and cranberry mixture. Gently press and roll so the bits stick evenly.
- Chill again briefly if needed before slicing to keep the log firm and easier to cut.
With a bit of patience, you’ll have a beautiful, flavorful cheese log ready to impress your guests!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – big enough to combine cream cheese and mix-ins without making a mess.
- Spoon or spatula – to fold in cranberries, walnuts, and chives gently.
- Plastic wrap – essential for shaping and rolling the cheese log tightly.
- Sharp knife – to slice the chilled cheese log cleanly into rounds.
- Cutting board or serving platter – to display the cheese log nicely for guests.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap walnuts for toasted pecans or almonds to change the nutty flavor and crunch.
- Add finely chopped dried apricots or figs for a sweeter, chewy texture.
- Mix in crumbled blue cheese or feta for a tangier, sharper bite.
- Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to add an earthy note.
How to Make Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Cheese Log:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup dried cranberries, coarsely chopped
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped (reserve some for outside coating)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
- Optional: fresh cranberries for garnish
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours chilling time in the fridge to let the cheese log firm up. You can even prepare it a day ahead to let the flavors marry beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing The Cheese Base:
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir or use a mixer to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Adding Cranberries, Walnuts, and Chives:
Fold in the chopped dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and fresh chives gently until everything is evenly mixed through the cream cheese base.
3. Shaping and Chilling the Log:
Spread out a large piece of plastic wrap on your work surface. Transfer the cheese mixture onto it and shape it into a log around 8 inches long. Wrap it tightly with the plastic wrap and roll gently to smooth the shape. Put it in the fridge for at least 2 hours to firm up.
4. Coating and Serving:
Mix the reserved chopped walnuts and additional chopped cranberries on a plate for the outside coating. Unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it in this mixture, pressing gently so they stick. Place the log on a serving board, garnish with extra chopped chives and rosemary sprigs. Slice into rounds and serve with crackers or baguette slices. Add fresh cranberries around for a festive touch if you like.
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Dried?
It’s best to use dried cranberries for this recipe since they add sweetness and texture without extra moisture. If you only have frozen cranberries, thaw and pat them very dry before use, but note the cheese log might be softer and less firm.
How Long Can I Make the Cheese Log Ahead?
You can prepare the cheese log up to 2 days in advance. Keep it tightly wrapped and refrigerated. Just add the outside coating right before serving for the freshest presentation.
Can I Substitute Different Nuts?
Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or even pistachios work great. Toasting the nuts lightly before mixing brings out their flavor and adds a nice crunch.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 4 days. Before serving again, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes for easier slicing.
