Description
This Cheese Log is the ultimate party starter—simple to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit. Made with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, garlic, and herbs, then rolled in a mixture of crushed nuts, spices, or dried fruit, it’s the perfect make-ahead appetizer for gatherings, holidays, and wine nights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
- 1 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt (for smooth texture)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (or 1/4 tsp garlic powder)
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (or pistachios)
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley or chives
- Optional: 2 tbsp dried cranberries or crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Mix the cheese:
In a bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, sour cream, garlic, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper. Mix until fully blended. - Shape the log:
Transfer the mixture to a piece of plastic wrap. Roll into a log shape (~6 inches long). Wrap tightly and chill for at least 1 hour. - Prepare the coating:
On a plate, combine chopped nuts, herbs, and any optional additions (like cranberries or chili flakes). - Roll to coat:
Unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it in the nut mixture, pressing gently to adhere. - Serve:
Transfer to a serving board. Serve with crackers, crostini, or sliced vegetables.
Notes
- Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper, horseradish, or jalapeños to the cheese mix.
- Sweet version: Add dried cranberries, honey, and roll in crushed almonds.
- Vegan option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan cheddar.
- Make ahead: Prep and chill up to 2 days in advance. Add coating just before serving for freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: appetizer
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of log
- Calories: 180kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg