Cranberry Goat Cheese Log

A festive, creamy goat cheese log studded with tangy dried cranberries, served alongside a medley of fresh berries for a colorful, elegant appetizer or snack.

This goat cheese log quickly became a favorite for holiday gatherings because it combines creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors in a simple dish.

Ingredients

• Cheese Log: 250 g (8 oz) goat cheese, softened, 80 g (½ cup) dried cranberries, chopped, 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional), 1 tsp honey, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Berry Garnish: 150 g (1 cup) fresh strawberries, hulled and halved, 125 g (1 cup) fresh blueberries, 125 g (1 cup) fresh raspberries, 1 tbsp fresh mint leaves, torn (optional)
• For Serving: Crackers or baguette slices (gluten-free if needed)

Instructions

Quickly slice, dice, grate, and spiralize vegetables for salads, stir fries, and faster everyday meal prep.

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Step 1:

In a medium bowl, combine softened goat cheese, chopped dried cranberries, thyme (if using), honey, and black pepper. Mix gently until just incorporated.

Step 2:

Place the mixture on a piece of plastic wrap. Shape into a log, wrapping tightly and smoothing the surface. Chill for 15 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 3:

Meanwhile, gently toss the fresh berries and mint leaves in a bowl.

Step 4:

Unwrap the goat cheese log and place on a serving platter. Arrange the berries attractively around the log.

Step 5:

Serve immediately with crackers or baguette slices.

Quickly slice, dice, grate, and spiralize vegetables for salads, stir fries, and faster everyday meal prep.

Check price on Amazon

Quickly slice, dice, grate, and spiralize vegetables for salads, stir fries, and faster everyday meal prep.

Check price on Amazon

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This recipe always brings my family together during the holidays, sparking conversations and smiles over shared plates.

Notes

For extra flavor, roll the log in chopped pistachios or toasted walnuts before serving. Substitute dried cherries or apricots for cranberries if desired. Drizzle with additional honey just before serving for a glossy finish. Excellent paired with dry sparkling wine or Sauvignon Blanc.

Required Tools

Mixing bowl, plastic wrap, spatula or spoon, serving platter, knife

Allergen Information

Contains milk (goat cheese). Check cracker or bread labels for gluten if serving gluten-free. Dried cranberries may be processed with nuts verify if you have nut allergies.

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Keeps sponges and brushes organized beside the sink, making dishwashing and post-cooking cleanup faster and neater.

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This creamy and festive cheese log makes a perfect appetizer ready to impress in just minutes.

Questions & Answers

→ How do you soften goat cheese for this dish?

Allow goat cheese to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes or gently microwave in short bursts to soften it for easier mixing.

→ Can the dried cranberries be substituted?

Yes, dried cherries or apricots can be used as alternatives to dried cranberries, offering a similar tangy sweetness.

→ Is chilling the cheese log necessary?

Chilling helps the cheese log firm up, making it easier to slice and serve while enhancing texture.

→ What are good accompaniments for serving?

Crackers, baguette slices, or gluten-free options complement the cheese log well, balancing its creamy texture.

→ How can the flavor be enhanced before serving?

Rolling the cheese log in chopped pistachios or toasted walnuts adds crunch and extra flavor; a drizzle of honey also enhances gloss and sweetness.

→ Can fresh herbs be added to the cheese mixture?

Fresh thyme leaves are optional but add a subtle aromatic note that pairs nicely with the goat cheese and berries.