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 has become my go-to festive appetizer to impress guests with minimal effort but maximum flavor.
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 to Pinterest This app brings smiles as family and friends gather around to enjoy the festive board together.
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
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This simple yet elegant appetizer is sure to wow your guests every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of goat cheese?
Yes, creamy cheeses like cream cheese or feta can substitute, but goat cheese offers a unique tangy flavor and soft texture ideal for coating.
- → How do I prepare the coating mixture?
Finely chop dried cranberries and nuts, then mix with fresh parsley if desired. Press the goat cheese logs gently into the mixture to ensure even coverage.
- → What are some good accompaniments to serve alongside?
Seedless grapes, assorted crackers (gluten-free if needed), toasted baguette slices, sliced cucumbers, radishes, and a drizzle of honey complement the flavors well.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the coated logs up to a few hours in advance and refrigerate them covered. Assemble the board just before serving to keep fresh textures.
- → Are there nut-free options for the coating?
Omit nuts and increase dried cranberries or substitute with pumpkin seeds for a crunchy, nut-free coating alternative.