The Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log is a delightful blend of creamy cheese, crunchy walnuts, and tart cranberries all rolled into one tasty appetizer. It’s easy to spot on any party table with its beautiful mix of textures and the festive red cranberries that make it look extra inviting. This cheese log is both simple to make and impressive to serve, making it a favorite at holidays or casual get-togethers.
I love making this cheese log because it feels like putting together a little work of art that everyone enjoys nibbling on. The contrast between the smooth cheese and the crunchy nuts, plus a pop of cranberry, always amazes me — it’s like a party in your mouth! If you want, you can even add a splash of orange zest or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to mix things up. I find that chilling it well before serving helps the flavors come together nicely, making every bite even better.
My favorite way to serve the Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log is with a big plate of crackers and some sliced apples on the side. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family, especially during the holidays when everyone loves a good snack that’s both sweet and nutty. This cheese log always makes me smile because it’s simple, tasty, and has a little something for everyone to enjoy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base and gives the cheese log its creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, try using Neufchâtel cheese. It’s similar but lower in fat.
Goat Cheese: Adds a nice tang that balances the sweetness of cranberries. You can skip it or swap with feta for a milder tang.
Dried Cranberries: Provide tart sweetness and chewy texture. You can substitute with dried cherries or raisins if cranberries aren’t available.
Walnuts: Bring a crunchy texture and subtle bitterness that pairs well with the cheese. Pecans or almonds also work well as swaps.
Parsley & Green Onions: Fresh herbs add brightness and a bit of sharpness. If you don’t have fresh herbs, a small pinch of dried herbs can help.
How Do You Shape and Coat the Cheese Log Without It Falling Apart?
Rolling and coating the cheese log can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll get a neat result:
- Soften cheeses: Make sure cream and goat cheese are soft but not melted.
- Mix well: Combine ingredients evenly for a consistent texture.
- Use plastic wrap: Shape the cheese onto plastic wrap and roll tightly to form a smooth log.
- Chill before coating: Refrigerate the log for 30 minutes first if it’s too soft to handle.
- Press nuts gently: Roll the log over chopped walnuts on a plate and press lightly so they stick without squishing the log.
- Chill again: Once shaped and coated, chill at least 2 hours to firm up for easy slicing.
Patience with chilling and gentle handling makes all the difference for a beautiful cheese log that slices cleanly and looks great on your platter.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – big enough to combine cream cheese and add-ins smoothly without spilling.
- Hand mixer or sturdy spoon – a hand mixer makes blending cream cheese easy, but a spoon works fine too.
- Plastic wrap – helps shape the cheese log tightly and keeps it from sticking to surfaces.
- Cutting board – for rolling the log in nuts and slicing before serving.
- Sharp knife – to cut neat, even slices of the cheese log without squishing it.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different crunchy nut flavor that still works well with cheese and cranberries.
- Add a teaspoon of orange zest to give the cheese log a fresh, bright citrus note that’s perfect for holidays.
- Mix in finely chopped dried apricots or figs for a different sweet chewy texture and a subtle fruit flavor.
- Include fresh chopped rosemary or thyme for a herbal twist that adds earthiness to the cheese log.
Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened (optional for tanginess)
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped (plus extra halves for garnish)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cranberries or cranberry sauce (for serving/garnish)
- Crackers or sliced bread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and mix, plus at least 2 hours of chilling time in the fridge to let the flavors blend and the cheese log firm up before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Cheeses and Seasonings:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and goat cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors evenly.
2. Add the Cranberries, Nuts, and Herbs:
Stir in the chopped dried cranberries, walnuts, fresh parsley, and green onions. Mix gently but thoroughly until everything is well distributed throughout the cheese mixture.
3. Shape and Coat the Log:
Lay a sheet of plastic wrap on your workspace. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap and shape it into a rough log. Use the plastic wrap to help roll and tighten the log into a smooth, compact shape.
Spread extra chopped walnuts on a plate, then roll the cheese log over the nuts to coat the outside evenly. Press gently so the nuts stick well.
4. Chill and Serve:
Place the cheese log on a serving board or plate and garnish with walnut halves on top. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
Before serving, slice the log into ½-inch thick rounds. Serve with fresh cranberries or cranberry sauce, alongside crackers or sliced bread.
If you enjoyed this Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log, be sure to try our comforting Classic Apple Pie, the indulgent Maple Pecan Baked Brie, or add a festive twist to breakfast with Pumpkin Pie French Toast.
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Dried?
It’s best to use dried cranberries for this recipe since frozen ones add extra moisture, which can make the cheese log too soft. If you only have frozen cranberries, thaw them completely and pat dry before mixing, but expect a slightly different texture.
How Far Ahead Can I Make the Cheese Log?
You can prepare the cheese log up to 2 days in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it refrigerated. This actually helps the flavors meld, making it taste even better on serving day!
Can I Substitute Other Nuts for Walnuts?
Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or cashews all work well as substitutes. Just chop them roughly and use the same amount as the walnuts.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cheese log in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before serving again, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes so it’s easier to slice and tastes creamier.