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Cranberry Goat Cheese Log

Featured in: Weekend BBQ Favorites

This creamy goat cheese log combines softened goat cheese with tangy dried cranberries, honey, and thyme. Once shaped and chilled, it’s served with a vibrant mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. The fresh mint adds a burst of brightness while the crackling pepper and optional nuts provide subtle texture. Perfect as a quick, elegant appetizer or snack, this no-cook preparation requires minimal effort but offers a colorful, flavorful presentation.

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Updated on Fri, 12 Dec 2025 15:15:00 GMT
Creamy cranberry & goat cheese log, served with vibrant berries, a delightful holiday appetizer. Save
Creamy cranberry & goat cheese log, served with vibrant berries, a delightful holiday appetizer. | grilto.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 appetizer has been a favorite at our holiday gatherings, always impressing guests with its elegant look and delightful taste.

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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| grilto.com

This recipe is always a family favorite and brings everyone together to enjoy its creamy texture paired with fresh berries.

Required Tools

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

Allergen Information

Contains milk (goat cheese). Check cracker or bread labels for gluten if serving gluten-free. Dried cranberries may be processed with nuts verify if you have nut allergies.

Nutritional Information

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

A close-up shot of the cranberry & goat cheese log, showcasing the sweet, tart, and savory flavors. Save
A close-up shot of the cranberry & goat cheese log, showcasing the sweet, tart, and savory flavors. | grilto.com

This simple yet elegant appetizer will elevate any gathering with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Recipe Help & Answers

→ Can I use other dried fruits instead of cranberries?

Yes, dried cherries or apricots work well as alternatives, offering a different but complementary tartness.

→ How long should the cheese log chill?

Chilling for 15 to 30 minutes helps the log firm up and makes slicing or serving easier.

→ What types of fresh berries pair best with the cheese log?

Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries create a colorful, sweet contrast that complements the cheese’s creaminess.

→ Can I add nuts to the cheese log?

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

→ What are good serving suggestions?

Serve with crackers or baguette slices, and consider pairing with sparkling wine or Sauvignon Blanc for a refined touch.

Cranberry Goat Cheese Log

Creamy goat cheese mixed with dried cranberries, served alongside a fresh berry medley for an elegant starter.

Prep Time
10 min
0
Complete Time
10 min
From grilto Jake Turner


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Style American

Serves 8 Portions

Diet Details Meatless, No Gluten

What You 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

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)

How-To

Step 01

Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix softened goat cheese, chopped dried cranberries, thyme leaves if using, honey, and black pepper until just incorporated.

Step 02

Shape and Chill: Transfer mixture onto plastic wrap, shape into a log, wrap tightly smoothing the surface, then chill for 15 to 30 minutes to firm.

Step 03

Prepare Berry Garnish: Toss fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and torn mint leaves lightly in a bowl.

Step 04

Plate and Serve: Unwrap log and place on serving platter, arranging berries around it attractively. Serve immediately with crackers or baguette slices.

Essentials

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

Allergy Advisory

Review every component for allergens. Reach out to a health pro if you’re concerned.
  • Contains milk from goat cheese.
  • Verify gluten content if gluten-free crackers or bread are used.
  • Dried cranberries may be processed with nuts; check for nut allergy caution.

Nutrition Details (per portion)

Facts listed here are for your info, not medical advice. Always double-check if needed.
  • Energy: 125
  • Lipids: 6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 13 g
  • Proteins: 5 g