Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log With Pepper Jelly
Highlighted under: Celebration Table Recipes
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this delicious Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log. This festive appetizer is a delightful blend of creamy cheese, sweet pineapple, and tart cranberries, all topped with a zesty layer of pepper jelly. Perfect for spreading on crackers or sliced baguette, it's the ideal addition to your appetizer spread that will impress your guests and leave them craving more.
This Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log is not just a treat for the taste buds; it also adds a festive touch to your holiday table. The combination of flavors and textures makes it an unforgettable appetizer.
Perfect for Holiday Celebrations
The Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log is a versatile addition to any holiday gathering. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family get-together or a festive cocktail party, this appetizer is sure to delight your guests. Its vibrant colors and bold flavors create a visually appealing display on your appetizer table, enticing everyone to dig in.
This cheese log not only tastes incredible but also showcases seasonal ingredients that people associate with winter celebrations. The combination of sweet pineapple and tart cranberries perfectly complements the creamy texture of the cheese, making every bite a delightful experience.
Simple Preparation
Preparing the Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log is a breeze, making it an ideal choice for busy hosts. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this advanced-tasting dish in no time. The key is to ensure your cream cheese is well softened, which allows for easy mixing and smoother texture.
Once you have mixed the ingredients, shaping the log is a fun and creative process. You can tailor the size and thickness to suit your needs. After refrigerating, the flavors meld together for a delightful taste that balances sweetness and zest perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your serving experience, consider pairing your cheese log with a variety of textures. Crispy crackers, fresh baguette slices, or even apple wedges make fantastic accompaniment options. Offering different bases allows your guests to experience the cheese log in unique ways, appealing to diverse palates.
Don’t feel limited to just one style of pepper jelly either; you can experiment with different flavors from mild to spicy. Adding a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can provide additional layers of flavor, making your cheese log not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log:
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup pepper jelly
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious cheese log:
Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crushed pineapple, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Shape the Log
Transfer the mixture to a piece of plastic wrap. Form it into a log shape and wrap it tightly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
Serve
Unwrap the log, place it on a serving platter, and top with pepper jelly. Serve with crackers or sliced baguette.
Enjoy your festive appetizer with friends and family!
Nutritional Benefits
This cheese log is not just a tasty treat; it also includes ingredients that offer nutritional benefits. Cream cheese provides a source of calcium, while cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. Pineapple adds a touch of tropical goodness alongside digestive enzymes that can help with breaking down proteins.
Incorporating nuts like pecans not only enhances the texture but also offers healthy fats and protein. This combination of ingredients makes it a well-rounded appetizer, ensuring that your guests enjoy a delicious snack while also getting some important nutrients.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, storing them properly can extend their shelf life. Wrap the cheese log tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container before refrigerating. Proper storage can keep your treat fresh for up to a week, allowing you to relish in the flavors long after your gathering.
If you want to serve this cheese log again, consider bringing it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. This allows the cream cheese to soften slightly, making it easier to spread on crackers and providing an even more delightful eating experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this cheese log in advance?
Yes, it can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
→ What can I use instead of pecans?
You can substitute with walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log With Pepper Jelly
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this delicious Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log. This festive appetizer is a delightful blend of creamy cheese, sweet pineapple, and tart cranberries, all topped with a zesty layer of pepper jelly. Perfect for spreading on crackers or sliced baguette, it's the ideal addition to your appetizer spread that will impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Created by: Mario
Recipe Type: Celebration Table Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8.0
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup pepper jelly
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crushed pineapple, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer the mixture to a piece of plastic wrap. Form it into a log shape and wrap it tightly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
Unwrap the log, place it on a serving platter, and top with pepper jelly. Serve with crackers or sliced baguette.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 10g
- Protein: 3g