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Cranberry Goat Cheese Log

Featured in: Global Heat

This creamy goat cheese log blends softened goat cheese with tangy dried cranberries, honey, thyme, and black pepper. Chilled to set, it’s served alongside a vibrant mix of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and fresh mint leaves. Perfectly paired with crackers or baguette slices, this elegant appetizer offers festive flavors and simple preparation. Optional additions like nuts or honey drizzle enhance the taste and presentation, making it ideal for gatherings.

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Updated on Fri, 12 Dec 2025 09:23:00 GMT
Creamy cranberry & goat cheese log, bursting with red berries, perfect served with crackers for easy entertaining. Save
Creamy cranberry & goat cheese log, bursting with red berries, perfect served with crackers for easy entertaining. | pepperplume.com

A festive, creamy goat cheese log studded with tangy dried cranberries, served alongside a medley of fresh berries for a colorful, elegant appetizer or snack.

This recipe was a hit at my holiday party & everyone loved the combination of tangy cranberries with smooth goat cheese.

Ingredients

  • Cheese Log: 250 g (8 oz) goat cheese, softened, 80 g (½ cup) dried cranberries, chopped, 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional), 1 tsp honey, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • Berry Garnish: 150 g (1 cup) fresh strawberries, hulled and halved, 125 g (1 cup) fresh blueberries, 125 g (1 cup) fresh raspberries, 1 tbsp fresh mint leaves, torn (optional)
  • For Serving: Crackers or baguette slices (gluten-free if needed)

Instructions

Step 1:
In a medium bowl, combine softened goat cheese, chopped dried cranberries, thyme (if using), honey, and black pepper. Mix gently until just incorporated.
Step 2:
Place the mixture on a piece of plastic wrap. Shape into a log, wrapping tightly and smoothing the surface. Chill for 15–30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3:
Meanwhile, gently toss the fresh berries and mint leaves in a bowl.
Step 4:
Unwrap the goat cheese log and place on a serving platter. Arrange the berries attractively around the log.
Step 5:
Serve immediately with crackers or baguette slices.
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| pepperplume.com

My family always gathers around the table excited to share this colorful appetizer during festive occasions.

Notes

For extra flavor, roll the log in chopped pistachios or toasted walnuts before serving. Substitute dried cherries or apricots for cranberries if desired. Drizzle with additional honey just before serving for a glossy finish. Excellent paired with dry sparkling wine or Sauvignon Blanc.

Required Tools

Mixing bowl, plastic wrap, spatula or spoon, serving platter, knife

Nutritional Information

Per serving: Calories 125, Total Fat 6 g, Carbohydrates 13 g, Protein 5 g

A close-up shot of the vibrant cranberry & goat cheese log, ready to be spread on crackers for a simple appetizer. Save
A close-up shot of the vibrant cranberry & goat cheese log, ready to be spread on crackers for a simple appetizer. | pepperplume.com

This easy recipe adds elegance and color to any party table while being quick to assemble.

Recipe FAQ

→ Can the goat cheese log be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, chilling the log for 15–30 minutes firms it up and can be done ahead to save time before serving.

→ Are there any suggested variations for the dried cranberries?

Dried cherries or apricots can be substituted for cranberries to change the flavor profile.

→ What are good accompaniments for serving?

Crackers or baguette slices, preferably gluten-free if needed, complement the cheese log well.

→ How can I add extra texture to the cheese log?

Rolling the log in chopped pistachios or toasted walnuts adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

→ What beverage pairs well with this appetizer?

Dry sparkling wine or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors and creates a festive pairing.

Cranberry Goat Cheese Log

Creamy goat cheese log with dried cranberries paired with a fresh berry medley for a festive snack.

Prep duration
10 min
0
Complete duration
10 min
Created by Isabella Flores


Complexity Easy

Heritage American

Output 8 Portions

Diet considerations Meat-free, No gluten

Components

Cheese Log

01 8 oz goat cheese, softened
02 ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
03 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
04 1 tsp honey
05 ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

Berry Garnish

01 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
02 1 cup fresh blueberries
03 1 cup fresh raspberries
04 1 tbsp fresh mint leaves, torn (optional)

For Serving

01 Crackers or baguette slices (gluten-free if needed)

Directions

Phase 01

Combine Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, gently mix softened goat cheese, chopped dried cranberries, thyme (if using), honey, and black pepper until just incorporated.

Phase 02

Shape Cheese Log: Transfer the mixture onto plastic wrap, form into a log by wrapping tightly and smoothing the surface, then chill for 15 to 30 minutes to firm.

Phase 03

Prepare Berry Garnish: Gently toss fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and mint leaves (if using) in a bowl.

Phase 04

Assemble for Serving: Unwrap the chilled goat cheese log, place on a serving platter, and arrange the fresh berries attractively around it.

Phase 05

Serve: Serve immediately alongside crackers or baguette slices.

Necessary tools

  • Mixing bowl
  • Plastic wrap
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Serving platter
  • Knife

Allergy details

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and seek professional health advice if you're uncertain.
  • Contains milk (goat cheese).
  • Check crackers or bread labels for gluten if serving gluten-free.
  • Dried cranberries may be processed with nuts; verify if nut allergies are present.

Nutrient breakdown (per portion)

These values are estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 125
  • Fats: 6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 13 g
  • Proteins: 5 g