Pin it 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 always impresses my guests and adds a festive touch to any gathering.
Ingredients
- Cheese Logs: 2 (150 g each) goat cheese logs
- Dried cranberries: 1/2 cup, finely chopped
- Pistachios or pecans: 1/3 cup, finely chopped
- Fresh parsley: 1 tablespoon, finely chopped (optional)
- Board Accompaniments: 1/2 cup seedless red grapes
- Seedless green grapes: 1/2 cup
- Assorted crackers: 1/2 cup (gluten-free if needed)
- Toasted baguette slices: 1/2 cup
- Honey: 1/4 cup
- Roasted almonds or walnuts: 1/4 cup
- Sliced cucumbers: 1/4 cup
- Sliced radishes: 1/4 cup
- 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.
Pin it This recipe often brings my family together around the table for holiday celebrations and casual get-togethers.
Notes
For extra variety, add dried apricots, olives, or apple slices. Pair with crisp white wine or sparkling rosé.
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.
Pin it 
This recipe is a quick and easy way to add festive flair to your appetizer spread with minimal effort.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I keep the goat cheese logs from sticking?
Chilling the goat cheese logs before rolling in the cranberry and nut mixture helps maintain their shape and prevents sticking.
- → What nuts work best for coating the logs?
Pistachios, pecans, almonds, or walnuts provide a crunchy texture and complement the tangy goat cheese and sweet cranberries.
- → Can I prepare the board in advance?
Yes, prepare the logs coated and chilled, but assemble the full board just before serving to keep crackers crisp and fresh.
- → What alternatives can I use for honey?
Fig or apricot preserves add a lovely sweetness and pair well with the cheese and fruit flavors.
- → How can I make this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Use gluten-free crackers and bread alongside the cheese logs to ensure the whole board is gluten-free friendly.
- → What wine pairs well with this cheese board?
A crisp white wine or sparkling rosé balances the creamy and tangy flavors nicely for an elegant pairing.