Description
The Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log is a vibrant and creamy plant-based appetizer that blends the tartness of fresh cranberries with the crunch of chopped pistachios and the richness of plant-based cream cheese. Enhanced with natural vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder, this easy-to-make cheese log is perfect for any festive occasion, offering a colorful, flavorful, and satisfying bite that impresses guests and complements a variety of party themes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz plant-based cream cheese
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- 1 cup chopped pistachios
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (natural)
- ½ cup smoked turkey bacon, chopped and cooked until crispy (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Finely chop the pistachios and fresh cranberries. If using smoked turkey bacon, cook it until crispy and crumble into bite-sized pieces. Measure out the plant-based cream cheese and seasonings for easy mixing.
- Mix the Base: In a medium bowl, combine the plant-based cream cheese, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), and garlic powder (natural). Mix with a spoon or spatula until smooth and creamy, ensuring an even distribution of the seasonings.
- Fold in the Cranberries and Nuts: Gently fold the chopped cranberries and pistachios into the cream cheese mixture to distribute evenly without crushing the berries. If using, fold in the crispy smoked turkey bacon pieces carefully for even incorporation.
- Shape the Log: Spoon the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper, forming a rough log shape. Use the wrap to help shape it into a tight, even cylinder by rolling and pressing gently. Chill the log in the refrigerator for at least one hour to firm up and meld the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, roll the chilled log in extra chopped pistachios or fresh cranberry bits for an attractive finish. Slice and serve with crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or toasted bread for a delightful party appetizer.
Notes
- Use room temperature plant-based cream cheese for easier mixing and smoother texture.
- Lightly toast the pistachios before folding in to deepen flavor and enhance crunch.
- Chill the cheese log well to allow proper setting and easier slicing.
- Prefer fresh cranberries over dried for juiciness and texture contrast.
- Prepare the cheese log one or two days ahead for better flavor development.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 60g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cranberry pistachio cheese log, plant-based cheese appetizer, holiday cheese log, vegan cheese log, party appetizer, festive appetizer, creamy cheese log