A Festive, Sweet-Savory Appetizer for Every Celebration
If you’re looking for a holiday appetizer that’s effortless, festive, and impossible to resist, this Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It blends creamy cheeses with the tang of pineapple, the sweetness of cranberries, and the crunch of pecans to create an unforgettable bite. This cheese log is not only delicious but also beautifully colorful — the red cranberries, green onions, and golden pineapple make it look like Christmas in edible form. Best of all, it takes just minutes to assemble, requires no cooking, and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for busy holiday hosting. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, a Christmas party, a New Year’s gathering, or a Thanksgiving appetizer spread, this cheese log will shine on any table.
⭐ Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, well drained
- ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Mix the Cheeses
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar. Mix until you get a smooth, creamy base with no large chunks.
2. Add the Flavor Boosters
Fold in the crushed pineapple, chopped dried cranberries, and green onions.
Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Shape the Cheese Log
Place a large sheet of plastic wrap on your work surface.
Spoon the cheese mixture onto the center and use the wrap to help you form it into a log shape.
Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm enough to handle.
4. Coat With Pecans
Spread the chopped pecans on a plate.
Unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it over the pecans, pressing gently so the nuts stick to the surface and form a crunchy outer layer.
5. Serve and Garnish
Transfer your finished cheese log to a serving platter.
Garnish with fresh parsley for brightness.
Serve with crackers, toasted baguette slices, pretzels, or crisp vegetables.
💡 Tips for Best Results
Drain the Pineapple Well
Any extra liquid can make the cheese mixture too soft. Press the pineapple with paper towels or drain it in a sieve.
Use Softened Cream Cheese
Room-temperature cream cheese ensures a smooth, spreadable texture.
Chill Time Matters
Resting the cheese log in the fridge helps the flavors develop and makes the log easier to slice and serve.
Make It Ahead
You can prepare the cheese log up to 2 days in advance — just roll in pecans right before serving to keep them crisp.
Flavor Variations
- Swap cranberries for dried cherries
- Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans
- Add a hint of smoked paprika
- Mix in jalapeños for a spicy holiday twist
🎄 The Perfect Holiday Appetizer
This Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese Log hits the perfect balance between creamy, sweet, savory, tangy, and crunchy — a combination that keeps everyone coming back for more. It’s festive, colorful, easy to make, and guaranteed to brighten up any holiday table.