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Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Log

Cranberry pecan goat cheese log is a festive appetizer coated in chopped dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and fresh parsley. Honey and orange zest add a bright, lightly sweet note to the softened goat cheese, which is chilled until firm and served at room temperature.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
chilling and standing 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 185
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the coating
  • 0.5 cup pecans
  • 0.5 cup dried cranberries finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
For the goat cheese log
  • 1 log (8 oz) goat cheese softened
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp orange zest finely grated

Equipment

  • 1 10-inch skillet

Method
 

Prepare the coating
  1. Toast the pecans in a dry 10-inch skillet over medium-low heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant; transfer to a plate to cool.
  2. Finely chop the cooled pecans.
  3. Combine the pecans with the cranberries and parsley on a shallow plate.
Shape and coat the log
  1. Stir the goat cheese, honey, and orange zest together in a bowl.
  2. Shape the mixture into a log about 6 inches long.
  3. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes, until firm enough to handle.
  4. Unwrap the log and roll it in the cranberry mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres.
  5. Let stand at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For an even coating, press the cranberry mixture gently over the entire log. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; freezing is not recommended. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based goat-style cheese.