04/15/2024
Easy Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log
Ingredients:
To craft this culinary masterpiece, you will need:
1 1/4 cups fresh cranberries, for that tart, fruity burst
1 cup shelled, roasted, and salted pistachios, adding a salty crunch and a vibrant green hue
7-8 oz. goat cheese, the backbone of this recipe, offering a creamy yet tangy flavor profile
4 oz. cream cheese, softened, to enhance the texture and add a subtle richness
2 tablespoons honey, introducing a touch of sweetness to balance the tartness
1/4 teaspoon each of ground ginger, ground cinnamon, salt, dried thyme, and dried rosemary, creating a symphony of flavors
1/8 teaspoon pepper, just enough to add a slight kick
Extra honey for drizzling, to garnish with a glossy, sweet finish
How To Make Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log:
Prepare the Coating
Begin by adding the cranberries and pistachios to a food processor. Pulse until they are finely chopped, not just blended, to ensure texture remains a focal point of the coating. Reserve 1/2 cup of this mixture; it will be integral to creating a harmonious blend within the cheese log itself.
Mix the Cheese
In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, and the spices: ground ginger, ground cinnamon, salt, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and pepper. Add the reserved 1/2 cup of the cranberry-pistachio mixture. Stir until the mixture is thoroughly combined and smooth. The goal here is to infuse every bite with a balanced flavor and ensure the mixture is homogenous.
Form the Cheese Log
Lay out a piece of plastic wrap on your work surface. Transfer the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap. Gently shape the mixture into a log, using the wrap to mold it. If the mixture is too soft to hold its shape, chill it for 15 minutes to firm up slightly. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect shape and consistency for your cheese log.
Coat the Cheese Log
Unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it in the remaining cranberry-pistachio mixture. Ensure the entire surface is evenly coated, pressing the mixture gently into the cheese to adhere. This coating not only adds flavor and texture but also creates an eye-catching appearance that is sure to impress.
Chill
Wrap the coated cheese log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and the cheese log to firm up, making it easier to slice.
Serve
Before serving, drizzle the cheese log with extra honey for a hint of sweetness and a glossy finish. Present it on a platter with a selection of crackers, bread, or fresh fruit slices. The combination of sweet, savory, and tart flavors, along with a variety of textures, makes this cheese log a versatile and appealing option for any occasion.