Description

This Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log is a stunning appetizer that’s both festive and flavorful. It combines creamy cheese with tart cranberries, crunchy pistachios, and a hint of herbs, making it perfect for holiday spreads, dinner parties, or as a crowd-pleasing snack. Whether you’re hunting for easy appetizer ideas, food ideas for parties, or healthy snack options, this cheese log delivers both simplicity and elegance. Serve it with crackers, veggies, or fruits—it’s versatile and so simple to make ahead for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup roasted pistachios

2 tablespoons fresh parsley or thyme (chopped)

1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Instructions

1. Let your cream cheese sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes until it’s soft and spreadable.

2. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with half of the chopped cranberries, pistachios, and herbs. Stir well until everything is evenly distributed.

3. Place the cheese mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Shape it into a log using the wrap to help mold and tighten the form. Chill it in the fridge for at least 1 hour to firm up.

4. Spread the remaining cranberries, pistachios, and herbs on a flat plate. Unwrap the chilled log and roll it in the coating mixture until fully covered.

5. Transfer to a serving platter and serve with your favorite crackers or bread slices. Add a drizzle of honey on top if desired.

Notes

For a tangier flavor, substitute 2 oz of the cream cheese with goat cheese.

The log can be made up to 3 days in advance—just store it wrapped in the fridge.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1 oz)
Calories: 140
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 110mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: easy appetizer, holiday cheese log, pistachio cranberry cheese, healthy snack, festive food ideas