Save 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 appetizer has become my go-to for holiday parties because it looks impressive but requires 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.
Save My family loves gathering around this board during celebrations making it a cherished tradition.
Notes
Add dried apricots olives or apple slices for more variety
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
Save This appetizer is sure to impress guests with minimal prep making your event memorable.
Recipe FAQs
- → What nuts work best for coating the cheese logs?
Pistachios and pecans offer a pleasant crunch and complement the sweetness of the cranberries, but toasted almonds or walnuts also work well.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, rolling the cheese logs in the cranberry-nut mixture can be done a few hours before serving. Keep refrigerated and assemble the board just before serving for freshness.
- → Are there any good alternatives to honey for drizzling?
Fig or apricot preserves provide a fruity sweetness that pairs nicely, and can be substituted for honey if preferred.
- → How can I adapt this for nut allergies?
Omit the nuts and increase the amount of dried cranberries or substitute with pumpkin seeds for added texture.
- → What beverages complement this board best?
Crisp white wines or sparkling rosé balance the creamy and sweet flavors beautifully, enhancing the overall tasting experience.