Cranberry Goat Cheese Log (Printable)
Creamy goat cheese with dried cranberries served with fresh berries for a colorful, elegant snack.
# What You'll Need:
→ 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
06 - 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
07 - 1 cup fresh blueberries
08 - 1 cup fresh raspberries
09 - 1 tbsp fresh mint leaves, torn (optional)
→ For Serving
10 - Crackers or baguette slices (gluten-free if preferred)
# How-to Steps:
01 - In a medium bowl, mix softened goat cheese, chopped dried cranberries, optional thyme, honey, and black pepper until just combined.
02 - Transfer mixture onto plastic wrap, shape into a log, wrap tightly, smooth the surface, and chill for 15 to 30 minutes to firm.
03 - Gently toss fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and optional mint leaves in a bowl.
04 - Unwrap the cheese log and place it on a serving platter. Arrange the mixed berries attractively around the log and serve immediately with crackers or baguette slices.
# Expert Pointers:
01 -
- It looks like you spent hours in the kitchen, but honestly takes just 10 minutes of hands on time.
- The tangy goat cheese with sweet cranberries and fresh berries hits every flavor note, and everyone always asks for the recipe.
02 -
- Softened cheese is everything. If you forget to take it out early, microwave it for 10 seconds at a time until it's just soft enough to stir.
- You can make the log a day ahead and keep it wrapped in the fridge. Just let it sit out for 10 minutes before serving so it's not rock hard.
03 -
- Use parchment paper instead of plastic wrap if you prefer. It works just as well for shaping and feels a bit more eco friendly.
- If you're making this for a crowd, double the recipe and shape two logs. They go faster than you think.