If you’re looking for an easy but festive holiday appetizer, this cranberry goat cheese log has you covered. It takes just five simple ingredients, comes together in under 15 minutes, and looks fancy enough for your holiday table—without the stress.
Think tangy goat cheese, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, fresh rosemary, and a drizzle of honey to pull it all together. It’s a holiday snack that feels gourmet but is secretly super easy. (That’s my favorite kind of recipe!)
And honestly, who doesn’t love a good cheese log recipe?
Why I love this appetizer
- Festive & colorful – that pop of red cranberry makes it holiday-ready.
- Gluten free – perfect for spreading on your favorite crackers, apple slices, or veggies.
- Quick & easy – 15 minutes from start to finish.
- Crowd-pleasing – creamy, tangy, crunchy, and sweet all in one bite.
Hey cranberry sauce, there's a new kid in town!
Ingredients
Here’s what makes this cranberry goat cheese appetizer so irresistible:
- Goat cheese – creamy, tangy, and perfectly spreadable.
- Dried cranberries – sweet, tart, and festive.
- Pecans – add nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
- Fresh rosemary – brings that woodsy holiday flair (fresh really makes a difference here).
- Honey – just a drizzle ties it all together with a touch of sweetness.
How to Make a Cranberry Goat Cheese Log
This no-cook goat cheese spread comes together in 15 minute or less. That is music to my ears!
- Step 1: Step 1: Mix the coating. Combine the chopped pecans, cranberries, and rosemary in a small bowl or on a plate.
- Step 2: Coat with honey. Drizzle the goat cheese log with 2 tablespoons of honey. Use clean fingers or the back of a spoon to spread it around. This acts as your “glue.”
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- Step 3: Roll it up. Press the cranberry-pecan mixture all around the goat cheese. Don’t forget the ends and underside—get it all covered!
You can use a firm hand to make everything adhere. Don't forget the bottom and the sides!
- Step 4: Prep the platter. Spread the last tablespoon of honey onto your serving plate. This keeps the cheese log from sliding around (no chasing appetizers here).
- Step 5: Garnish & serve. Set the coated log on the platter and surround it with crackers, fruit slices, or veggies. Sprinkle on a few extra cranberries or a sprig of rosemary if you’re feeling fancy.
It's the perfect party appetizer!
Storage
Wrap your cranberry goat cheese log loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2–3 days.
For best flavor, take it out of the fridge 30–60 minutes before serving so the cheese softens up.
Serving Ideas
This appetizer is delicious with:
- Crackers or crostini
- Apple or pear slices
- Raw veggies like cucumber rounds or celery sticks
It’s one of those recipes that disappears fast, so you may want to make two.
If you try this cranberry goat cheese appetizer, leave a star rating and let me know how it went—I’d love to hear!
Other appetizer recipes
Recipe
Cranberry Goat Cheese Appetizer
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Ingredients
- 4 ounce goat cheese log
- ¼ cups pecans chopped finely
- ¼ cup dried cranberries chopped
- 1 Tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves chopped
- 3 Tablespoons honey divided
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the ¼ cups pecans, ¼ cup dried cranberries, and 1 Tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves.
- Place the 4 ounce goat cheese log log on a plate and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of honey. Spread with the back of a spoon or clean fingers to coat evenly.
- Roll the goat cheese log in the cranberry-pecan mixture, pressing gently so it sticks. Be sure to cover all sides.
- Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of honey onto your serving plate to keep the cheese log in place.
- Place the coated goat cheese on the platter. Garnish with extra cranberries, pecans, or a sprig of rosemary. Serve with crackers, apple slices, or veggies.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
This Farm Girl Cooks is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. Calories and other nutritional values vary depending on which brands were used.
Christine says
I was looking for a great but quick recipe for my book club - this was a big hit. I served it with rosemary crackers from Trader Joes. Thank you!
Christine says
Oh, FRESH rosemary is a must. Several people commented about how the taste it was perfect for the holidays.
Deanne Frieders says
Yes, it really does taste like the holidays...if that's possible!
Deanne Frieders says
Wonderul!
Laura Remme says
Very elegant. I would like to prepare this before an event. How long will it stay in the fridge before serving?
Deanne Frieders says
You could make it the night before, or prepare the toppings and roll in before the guests arrive.
Judith Sturm says
Amazing cheese log! Made it several times plus my 27yro grandson made it for Christmas and it was a big hit!❣️
Deanne Frieders says
So glad you liked it, Judith!
Julie says
Is this really only 4 servings?
Linda B., Houston says
I took this to a small group gathering and it was a hit! It was described as a very elegant appetizer...
Deanne Frieders says
So glad you liked it Linda! I'm taking it to a party tonight 🙂