Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log: 5 Reasons to Love It

Posted on November 28, 2025

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite holiday appetizer—the Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log! It’s such a showstopper at gatherings, bringing together the perfect blend of creamy and crunchy textures, not to mention that festive pop of color from the cranberries and pistachios. I remember the first time I served it at a family holiday party; my aunt couldn’t stop raving about it! She kept asking for the recipe while happily munching away with her crackers. This cheese log is not just delicious, but it’s also so easy to whip up. You can make it ahead of time, which helps take the stress out of party planning. Trust me, this is one appetizer that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients for Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log

8 oz cream cheese, softened: This is the creamy base of our cheese log. Make sure it’s softened so it blends smoothly with the other ingredients.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a lovely sharpness and depth of flavor. I love using a medium or sharp cheddar for that extra kick!
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped: These little gems bring a sweet and tart flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of the cheeses. Chop them to make them easier to mix in.
1/2 cup pistachios, chopped: Not only do they add a delightful crunch, but their green hue is so festive! Make sure they’re unsalted for the best flavor balance.
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: This adds a pop of freshness and color. If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can use dried, but fresh really elevates the dish!
1 tbsp lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens up the flavors and cuts through the richness.
1/2 tsp garlic powder: Just a hint of garlic for depth. It’s subtle but makes a big difference in flavor.

How to Prepare Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log

Getting your hands on this Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log is a breeze! It’s all about combining the ingredients in a way that makes them sing together. You’ll love how simple it is to make this festive appetizer, and trust me, the results are absolutely stunning. Let’s dive into how to whip this delicious beauty up!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, grab a mixing bowl and toss in the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Using a hand mixer or spatula, mix them together until they’re smooth and well combined. You want that creamy texture to really shine!
Next, add in the chopped dried cranberries, pistachios, fresh parsley, lemon juice, and garlic powder. This is where the magic happens! Mix everything together until all those vibrant colors and flavors are nicely blended. Trust me, the smell is heavenly!
Now, it’s time to shape this delightful mixture into a log. I like to use a piece of plastic wrap for this—just scoop the mixture onto it and roll it up tightly, tucking in the ends. This helps it hold its shape.
Pop the wrapped cheese log in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This chilling time is essential, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the log to firm up before serving.
When you’re ready to serve, unwrap the cheese log and pair it with your favorite crackers. You’ll be amazed at how everyone will flock to this tasty creation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log is more than just a pretty face; it’s packed with flavor and is a total crowd-pleaser! Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore making it:

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip this up in no time!
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it a day in advance, which is perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Stunning Presentation: It looks gorgeous on any cheese board, bringing a festive touch to your gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet cranberries, crunchy pistachios, and creamy cheese is simply irresistible.
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or add spices to make it your own!
Kid-Friendly: Kids love it too! It’s a fun way to get them to enjoy cheese and fruit.

Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a staple at my holiday parties—everyone keeps asking for the recipe!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips I’ve learned along the way:

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is well-softened before mixing. This helps achieve that smooth, creamy texture without lumps.
Chill Time is Key: Don’t rush the chilling process! Letting the cheese log sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours allows the flavors to meld and the log to firm up nicely.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other herbs or spices you love! A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne can give it a nice kick.
Presentation Matters: When serving, consider rolling the log in extra chopped nuts or herbs for a beautiful finish. It makes it look even more enticing!
Pairing is Everything: Offer a variety of crackers, bread, or even fresh fruit alongside your cheese log for a delightful tasting experience.

With these tips in mind, you’ll impress everyone with your culinary skills and have them begging for more!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk numbers! This Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log is not just a treat for the taste buds, but it’s also relatively friendly on the waistline. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving, which is about one slice:

Calories: 150
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 200mg
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 6g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But overall, it’s a delightful way to indulge without too much guilt! Enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite!

FAQ Section

Got questions about the Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my answers:

Can I make this cheese log in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it a day ahead. The flavors deepen and meld beautifully when it sits overnight in the fridge.

What can I serve with it?
This cheese log pairs wonderfully with an array of crackers, sliced baguette, or even fresh fruits like apples and pears. It’s all about your preference!

Can I use different nuts?
Sure! If you’re not a fan of pistachios, feel free to swap them out for walnuts or almonds. Just keep in mind that it’ll change the flavor profile a bit.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure to cover it well to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze the cheese log?
Yes, you can! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It should be good for up to two months. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.

Feel free to reach out if you have more questions—I love sharing tips and tricks to make your cooking adventures a success!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log is super straightforward, and trust me, you’ll want to keep those tasty leftovers! First, make sure to wrap the cheese log tightly in plastic wrap. This helps keep it fresh and prevents it from absorbing any other flavors from the fridge. You can also pop it into an airtight container if you prefer. It’ll stay good for up to a week in the refrigerator, so don’t worry if you have some left over!

As for reheating, there’s no need! This cheese log is best served cold or at room temperature, which means you can just slice it up and serve it straight from the fridge. If you’ve frozen it, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite without any hassle!