Holiday Pineapple & Cranberry Cream Cheese Log
Rolled in Toasted Pecans
This festive cream cheese log is the perfect holiday appetizer—creamy, sweet, slightly tangy, and full of texture. Juicy pineapple, tart cranberries, and crunchy toasted pecans come together in a beautiful make-ahead dish that looks impressive but takes very little effort.
⏱ Prep Time
15–20 minutes (plus chilling)
❄️ Chill Time
1–2 hours
🍽 Servings
8–10 people (appetizer)
🧾 Ingredients
Cream Cheese Log
2 blocks (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
½ cup crushed pineapple, very well drained
½ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
1–2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
¼ teaspoon salt
Coating
¾–1 cup pecans, finely chopped and toasted
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Toast the Pecans
Place the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir constantly for 3–5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the drained pineapple, chopped cranberries, powdered sugar (if using), vanilla extract (if using), and salt. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
3. Shape the Log
Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on the counter. Spoon the cream cheese mixture into the center and use the plastic wrap to shape it into a log, about 8 inches long.
4. Chill
Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (2 hours is best) until firm.
5. Roll in Pecans
Spread the cooled toasted pecans on a plate. Unwrap the chilled log and gently roll it in the pecans, pressing lightly so they stick.
6. Serve
Transfer to a serving platter and serve with crackers, pretzels, or sliced fruit.
🎉 Serving Ideas
Ritz or butter crackers, wheat crackers, pretzel crisps, apple or pear slices, or toasted baguette rounds.
A guaranteed holiday crowd-pleaser! 🎄