This Cranberry Pistachio Goat Cheese Log is the ultimate holiday appetizer! Creamy goat cheese is rolled in sweet, tangy dried cranberries and crunchy pistachios for a festive and flavorful treat. Perfect for serving with crackers or crostini, it’s an easy yet elegant addition to any gathering!
This cranberry pistachio cheese log is a cheese lover’s dream come true! The vibrant colors of cranberries and pistachios make it perfect for holiday parties and gatherings. It’s enjoyed around the holidays but can be enjoyed any time of the year. The sweet flavors of the citrus and honey paired with the tangy goat cheese and crunch of the pistachios are a match made in heaven. A delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that everyone loves. It Comes together in just minutes with minimal prep and will be sure to wow your guests!
If you enjoyed this delicious cranberry pistachio goat cheese log, check out my cranberry pecan cheese ball or jalapeno cheddar cheese ball next!
Ingredients you’ll need
This cranberry pistachio goat cheese log uses just 5 simple ingredients! The combination of goat cheese and crunchy pistachios is a delicious contrast to the sweetness and chewy texture of the dried cranberries. Get ready for a winning Christmas appetizer!
- Goat cheese: Creamy and tangy, this is the base of the appetizer and pairs wonderfully with the sweet and crunchy toppings.
- Dried cranberries: Adds a pop of sweetness and festive color to the coating.
- Pistachios: Provides a nutty crunch to complement the creamy cheese.
- Honey: A touch of natural sweetness to balance the tanginess of the goat cheese.
- Orange zest: Brightens the flavor with a hint of citrusy freshness.
- Crackers or crostini: The perfect vehicle for scooping up the delicious goat cheese spread.
How to make a goat cheese log
Prep: On a cutting board or flat surface, roughly chop the cranberries and pistachios. Zest about half an orange.
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the chopped pistachios, cranberries, orange zest, and honey until well combined.
Roll the cheese: Transfer the mixture onto a cutting board or sheet pan and roll the goat cheese log onto the mixture until fully coated.
Serve: Enjoy the cheese log with crackers or crostini and drizzle with more honey, if desired.
Helpful Tips
Here are a few simple tips to help you achieve a show-stopping appetizer!
Serving tips: Place the cheese log on a plate then gently press it onto the plate. Twist slightly to secure it into place. This is so the log doesn’t roll as people are dipping into it. Place a variety of crackers and crostini around the cheese log and serve.
Soften the goat cheese: Let the goat cheese sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before rolling, so the nut mixture sticks easier.
Serve at room temperature: Allow the cheese log to sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Pistachio tips: You can roll the cheese in nuts ahead of time. However, if you want them to remain firm and crunchy, I recommend waiting to roll in the nuts until just before serving.
Frequently asked questions
How do I keep the coating from falling off?
Make sure the goat cheese is slightly softened before rolling, and press the cranberries and pistachios firmly onto the log.
What crackers go best with this cheese log?
Crostini, water crackers or whole-grain crackers pair deliciously with this cheese log. You can also serve it with sliced baguette.
Can I make a cheese log ahead of time?
Yes, prepping this cheese log ahead of time is simple. To make ahead, after rolling the log in the nut mixture, cover with plastic wrap and place in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Remove to room temp 15-20 minutes before serving.
Can I freeze the goat cheese log?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the texture of the cheese and coating may change once thawed.
More Delicious Cheese Appetizers
Cranberry Pistachio Goat Cheese Log
Ingredients
- 8 oz goat cheese log
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup pistachios, unsalted
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- Crackers or crostini, for serving
Instructions
- On a cutting board or flat surface, roughly chop the cranberries and pistachios. Zest about half an orange.
- In a large bowl, mix the chopped pistachios, cranberries, orange zest, and honey until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture onto a cutting board or sheet pan and roll the goat cheese log onto the mixture until fully coated.
- Serve the cheese log with crackers or crostini and drizzle with more honey, if desired.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Make ahead and storage
This goat cheese log makes great leftovers! The flavors come together and taste even better the next day. It’s easy to store and stays fresh-tasting for days.
- In the refrigerator: Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving, so the cheese and cranberries can slightly soften.
- Make ahead: To make ahead, after rolling the log in the nut mixture, cover with plastic wrap and place in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Remove to room temp 15-20 minutes before serving.
So easy and festive!