Save to Pinterest 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 is one of my favorite appetizers to bring to holiday parties because it looks impressive but is incredibly simple to make.
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: 1 tablespoon finely chopped optional
- Seedless red grapes: 1/2 cup
- Seedless green grapes: 1/2 cup
- Assorted crackers: 1/2 cup gluten-free if needed
- Toasted baguette slices: 1/2 cup
- Honey: 1/4 cup
- Roasted almonds or walnuts: 1/4 cup
- Sliced cucumbers: 1/4 cup
- Sliced radishes: 1/4 cup
- 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.
Save to Pinterest This recipe always brings my family together and sparks great conversations during the holidays.
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 per serving
Save to Pinterest This appetizer is a surefire crowd-pleaser and perfect for any festive occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I get the cranberry coating to stick to the cheese?
Ensure the goat cheese logs are slightly softened at room temperature so the chopped cranberries and nuts adhere evenly when gently pressed on.
- → Can I prepare the logs ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the coated cheese logs up to a few hours prior and keep them refrigerated, covered to maintain freshness until serving.
- → What nuts work best for the coating?
Pistachios and pecans provide great texture and flavor, but almonds or walnuts are excellent alternatives depending on preference.
- → Are there any good substitutes for honey?
Fig or apricot preserves can be used for a different fruity sweetness that complements the cheese and cranberry coating well.
- → How to make the spread gluten-free?
Use gluten-free crackers and substitute baguette slices with gluten-free bread to keep all accompaniments suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
- → What wine pairs well with this selection?
A crisp white wine or sparkling rosé enhances the creamy and fruity flavors, balancing the richness and sweetness on the board.