Double Cranberry Cheese Log

This appetizer is the perfect start for Thanksgiving. By changing the variety of jelly, nuts, herbs and cheese, you give the log a new flavor.

Ingredients:

• 11 ounces pepper jelly
• 4 ounces unsalted butter, softened
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 8 ounces shredded white cheddar cheese
• 4 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 medium garlic clove, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onion, white and light green parts
• 2-3 drops hot sauce, optional
• 1 1/4 cups finely chopped shelled pistachio nuts
• 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh rosemary
• 3/4 cup finely chopped dried cranberries

Directions:

Line a small bowl with plastic wrap and set aside. Combine jelly, butter and cream cheese in a medium bowl and using an electric mixer, beat until smooth. Add shredded cheeses, garlic, onion and hot sauce. Continue to beat until mixture is well incorporated and smooth. Transfer mixture to prepared bowl, cover and refrigerate 2 hours. Combine nuts, rosemary and cranberries in a small bowl. Transfer cheese ball to a flat surface, lined with parchment paper and roll into an 8 inch log. Sprinkle nut mixture on parchment paper. Roll cheese log in nut mixture until it is completely covered. Place cheese log on a serving platter and serve with a variety of crackers, cut fruit and vegetables.

Number of Servings: 4 - 6