Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This appetizer combines creamy goat cheese with the crunchy texture of pecans and the sweet tartness of cranberries, making every bite flavorful and balanced. It requires minimal prep and no cooking, so you can easily whip it up in minutes. It’s perfect for entertaining because it looks festive and sophisticated without demanding much time or effort.
Ingredients
8 ounce plain goat cheese log
1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
1/4 cup finely chopped dried cranberries
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
4 tablespoons honey
Crackers
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Mix the chopped pecans, dried cranberries, and parsley together in a bowl. Spread this mixture evenly on a large cutting board or flat surface.
- Roll the goat cheese log in the pecan-cranberry-parsley mixture, pressing gently to coat all sides evenly. Press into any bare spots to ensure full coverage.
- Transfer the coated goat cheese log to a serving platter along with any remaining coating mixture.
- Drizzle the cheese log with honey and sprinkle lightly with sea salt.
- Serve at room temperature with crackers for spreading and dipping.
Servings and timing
- Serves: About 8 to 10 as an appetizer
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Total time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Use different nuts such as walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a varied flavor.
- Swap dried cranberries for dried cherries or apricots for a different fruity note.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more aromatic touch.
- Use flavored goat cheese (e.g., herb-infused or garlic) for added complexity.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze instead of honey for a tangier finish.
Storage/Reheating
- Store any leftovers tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Bring to room temperature before serving to soften the goat cheese for best texture and flavor.
- This appetizer is best served fresh and does not require reheating.
FAQs
Can I prepare this appetizer ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a few hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated and bring to room temperature before serving.
What can I use if I don’t have a goat cheese log?
You can shape soft goat cheese into a log or use a round goat cheese wheel if preferred.
Can I use other nuts besides pecans?
Yes, walnuts, almonds, or pistachios make excellent substitutes.
Are there vegan alternatives for this appetizer?
Yes, you can use vegan cream cheese or plant-based goat cheese alternatives.
How do I keep the cheese from sticking to the cutting board?
Lightly oil or line the board with parchment paper before rolling the cheese.
Can I make smaller bite-sized portions?
Absolutely, form small balls coated in the mixture for individual servings.
What type of crackers pairs best with this?
Mild-flavored crackers like water crackers, wheat crisps, or crostini work well.
How long will the appetizer keep?
Stored properly in the refrigerator, it will last about 3 days.
Can I add spices to the coating?
Yes, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a holiday-inspired flavor.
Should the cheese be soft or firm?
A firm goat cheese log is easier to coat, but it should be soft enough to spread when served.
Conclusion
This Pecan Cranberry Goat Cheese Appetizer is a simple yet sophisticated dish that’s perfect for entertaining. With minimal prep and a combination of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory flavors, it’s sure to impress guests at any party or holiday table. Easy to customize and quick to assemble, it’s a go-to appetizer for stress-free entertaining.
Pecan Cranberry Goat Cheese Appetizer
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 10 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
An elegant and easy-to-make appetizer featuring a creamy goat cheese log coated with crunchy pecans, sweet dried cranberries, fresh parsley, and finished with a honey drizzle. Perfect for entertaining and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
8 ounce plain goat cheese log
1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
1/4 cup finely chopped dried cranberries
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
4 tablespoons honey
Crackers for serving
Instructions
- Mix the chopped pecans, dried cranberries, and parsley together in a bowl. Spread this mixture evenly on a large cutting board or flat surface.
- Roll the goat cheese log in the pecan-cranberry-parsley mixture, pressing gently to coat all sides evenly. Press into any bare spots to ensure full coverage.
- Transfer the coated goat cheese log to a serving platter along with any remaining coating mixture.
- Drizzle the cheese log with honey and sprinkle lightly with sea salt.
- Serve at room temperature with crackers for spreading and dipping.
Notes
Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for different flavor.
Use dried cherries or apricots instead of cranberries for variation.
Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra aroma.
Try flavored goat cheese such as herb-infused or garlic for complexity.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze instead of honey for a tangier finish.
Store leftovers wrapped tightly in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
Make bite-sized balls coated in the mixture for individual servings.
Use mild crackers like water crackers or crostini for serving.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for holiday flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximate)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
