Pin It 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 recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings and always impresses my guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- Cheese Logs: 2 (150 g each) goat cheese logs, 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped, 1/3 cup pistachios or pecans, finely chopped, 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
- Board Accompaniments: 1/2 cup seedless red grapes, 1/2 cup seedless green grapes, 1/2 cup assorted crackers (gluten-free if needed), 1/2 cup toasted baguette slices, 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup roasted almonds or walnuts, 1/4 cup sliced cucumbers, 1/4 cup sliced radishes, 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
Pin It This appetizer always brings my family together during the holidays for sharing stories and laughter.
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
Pin It 
This appetizer not only tastes divine but also adds a beautiful touch to any festive table.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese is used in the logs?
Soft goat cheese is used for its creamy texture and tangy flavor that pairs well with the sweet and nutty coating.
- → Can I substitute the nuts in the coating?
Yes, pistachios or pecans work well, and for a nut-free option, pumpkin seeds or extra dried cranberries can be used.
- → How should the cheese logs be served?
Arrange the coated cheese logs on a serving board surrounded by grapes, crackers, baguette slices, cucumber, radishes, and nuts, drizzled with honey and garnished with rosemary.
- → Are there any suggestions for accompaniments?
Pair the board with gluten-free or assorted crackers, fresh grapes, toasted baguette slices, and a drizzle of honey or preserves like fig or apricot.
- → How can I add variety to the board?
Include extras such as dried apricots, olives, apple slices, or swap honey for fig or apricot preserves to enhance flavor diversity.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, by choosing gluten-free crackers and bread, the spread can be enjoyed gluten-free.