Cherry Cheese Log Recipe
This Cherry Cheese Log is a delightful, creamy appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a sweet and tangy twist on a classic cheese spread. It features a smooth blend of cream cheese, maraschino cherries, orange zest, and a hint of ginger, all rolled into a log and coated with crunchy pecans for a pleasing texture contrast.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 to 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 10 ounces maraschino cherries
- 24 ounces cream cheese (3 blocks), softened
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 orange, zested
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
Coating
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherries: Drain the maraschino cherries thoroughly, then rinse them very well under cold water to reduce sweetness and remove excess syrup.
- Chop and Dry Cherries: Chop the cherries finely, rinse them again to ensure they are clean, and then pat dry with paper towels until the towels no longer turn red. This step is crucial to remove moisture for better texture and to prevent excess liquid in the cheese log.
- Mix the Cheese Base: In a stand mixer or a large bowl using a hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, orange zest, and ground ginger together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Fold in Cherries: Gently fold the chopped, dried cherries into the cream cheese mixture to distribute them evenly without crushing the fruit.
- Shape the Log: Scoop the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap (approximately 15 by 30 inches). Shape the mixture into a log form, then wrap tightly by twisting the ends of the plastic wrap in opposite directions to firm it up.
- Refrigerate: Place the wrapped log in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow it to set and the flavors to meld.
- Coat with Pecans: After chilling, unwrap the log carefully and roll it in the chopped pecans until fully coated, adding a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Notes
- Ensuring the cherries are well rinsed and dried is key to prevent the cheese log from becoming soggy.
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of vanilla extract to the cheese mixture.
- Serve chilled with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh fruit for a perfect party appetizer.
- Can be made a day ahead and stored tightly wrapped in the refrigerator.
Keywords: Cherry cheese log, cream cheese appetizer, holiday appetizer, pecan cheese log, fruit cheese spread
Find it online: https://tastygenius.com/cherry-cheese-log-recipe/
