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Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log

Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log

  • Author: Jonathan
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

The Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log is an easy-to-make, visually stunning appetizer featuring creamy plant-based cheese blended with tart dried cranberries, crunchy crushed pistachios, and savory smoked turkey bacon pieces. Perfect for festive gatherings or casual get-togethers, this flavorful cheese log offers a wonderful balance of textures and tastes, and can be customized to suit various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Base

  • 8 oz plant-based cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup (natural)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (natural)
  • 1 tsp natural gelling agent

Mix-ins

  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/3 cup smoked turkey bacon pieces, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
  • 3/4 cup crushed pistachios (unsalted), divided

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cheese Base: Begin by softening your plant-based cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Add the vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), maple syrup (natural), and garlic powder (natural) to the cheese. Mix until everything combines smoothly and creates a creamy, flavorful base.
  2. Add Flavorful Ingredients: Fold in the dried cranberries, finely chopped smoked turkey bacon pieces, and fresh chives. These ingredients add texture and a lovely mixture of flavors that will brighten the cheese base.
  3. Incorporate Pistachios: Stir in most of the crushed pistachios, reserving a handful for decoration. The pistachios provide a stunning color contrast along with crunch, balancing the creaminess perfectly.
  4. Shape the Log: Place the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using the wrap, carefully roll and shape the mixture into a log. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least two hours, allowing it to firm up with the natural gelling agent.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Once firm, unwrap the log and gently press the reserved pistachios on the outside for a decorative coating. Add a sprinkle of extra chopped chives or dried cranberries for a gorgeous final touch. Your Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log is ready to impress!

Notes

  • Softening cream cheese to room temperature makes mixing smoother and easier.
  • Chop cranberries and smoked turkey bacon finely for even texture and bites.
  • Ensure adequate chill time for the log to firm up to allow clean slicing.
  • Use fresh, unsalted pistachios for best flavor and crunch.
  • For best flavor, make the cheese log ahead and let it rest overnight.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Chilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/8 of log)
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Cranberry, Pistachio, Cheese Log, Plant-based, Appetizer, Vegan, Gluten Free

Find it online: https://familycookspot.com/cranberry-pistachio-cheese-log/