This old-fashioned Cheese Log recipe is a classic party appetizer with a creamy, savory filling, finely chopped pecans for crunch, and a coating of chili powder for color and a gentle hint of spice. It is simple to make, easy to prepare ahead of time, and perfect for serving with crackers on a holiday appetizer tray, game-day spread, or casual cheese board.
Featured Comment:
“My grandmother used to make this cheese log back in the 40’s for her parties. It was always my dad’s favorite. I always make it and people love how different it is from the usual cheese balls.” -Christy
This old-fashioned Cheese Log is a delicious addition to an appetizer spread or cheese tray. It has the familiar comfort of a retro party recipe, but it still feels special enough for modern gatherings.
The recipe was found in a spiral-bound church cookbook from the 1970s, though readers have shared that similar cheese logs were being made at parties as early as the 1940s. The original version called for Longhorn cheese. This version uses Colby Jack because it is easy to find and works beautifully with the cream cheese, pecans, onion, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce.
Recipes like this are one of the reasons old church cookbooks remain such a treasure. The ingredients are simple, the method is straightforward, and the finished appetizer is memorable. It is a great choice when you want something a little different from the usual cheese ball.
Here’s What You’ll Need
- A combination of Colby Jack cheese and cream cheese creates the base of this cheese log recipe. The cream cheese helps bind everything together, while the shredded cheese gives the log its rich flavor and texture. Cheddar can also be used in place of Colby Jack.
- Pecans add crunch and a nutty flavor. Chop them very finely so the cheese log is easy to slice and spread onto crackers.
- Finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce season the cheese mixture and give it a savory, classic appetizer flavor.
- The outside of the cheese log is rolled in chili powder, which adds color and mild spice. If you prefer a sweeter, less spicy finish, you can use paprika instead. A little smoked paprika mixed with the chili powder also adds a pleasant smoky note.
How to Make A Cheese Log
- Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before starting. Softened cream cheese blends more easily and helps the cheese mixture hold together. Shred the Colby Jack cheese yourself rather than using pre-shredded cheese, since freshly grated cheese combines better and gives the log a smoother texture.
- Chop the pecans as finely as possible. Small pieces are important because the cheese log will be sliced and spread onto crackers. If available, pecan chips can also be used.
- Place the shredded cheese, softened cream cheese, chopped pecans, Worcestershire sauce, chopped onion, and minced garlic in a large bowl. Mix until everything is evenly combined. A spoon works, but using clean hands is often the easiest way to blend the ingredients thoroughly.
- Shape the cheese mixture into a log about 12 inches long and roughly 2–3 inches in diameter. Sprinkle chili powder onto a cutting board, then roll the log in the chili powder until coated. Use your fingers to pat the chili powder onto any bare spots. The cheese log is ready to serve immediately or chill for later.
Cheese Log: Frequently Asked Questions
Cream cheese is essential because it helps hold the cheese roll together. The shredded cheese can be changed based on your preference. Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, cheddar, Longhorn, or Swiss can all work in a cheese log.
Yes. Use ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder in place of the minced garlic clove.
Use an equal amount of soy sauce if you need a substitute for Worcestershire sauce.
Yes. You can leave the pecans out, or you can use finely chopped walnuts instead.
Yes. Shape the cheese mixture into a ball with your hands, then roll it in chili powder. You can also form the mixture into 1-inch balls for individual servings.
Serving/Make Ahead Instructions
This Cheese Log recipe can be made up to 2 days in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you are ready to serve. For the best texture, let it sit at room temperature for about 2 hours before serving so it softens slightly and spreads more easily on crackers.
You can also freeze the cheese log. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, place it in a resealable freezer bag, and freeze for up to two months.
Serve this old-fashioned cheese log with crackers as a simple appetizer, or add it to a larger cheese board with other cheeses, nuts, and snack items. Place a butter knife or cheese spreader nearby so guests can slice off portions and spread the cheese onto crackers themselves.
Use care when choosing a serving platter. Chili powder can stain marble and other porous surfaces. A wooden board or washable platter is a better choice for serving.
More cheesy appetizers
- Hanky Panky appetizers
- Ham & Cream Cheese Pinwheels
- Hawaiian Roll Sliders
- Reuben Dip
- Cold Crab Dip
- Crockpot Chili Cheese Dip
📖 Recipe
Cheese Log
Ingredients
- 1 lb Colby Jack cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup pecans
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- To serve: crackers
Instructions
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Grate the Colby Jack cheese with a box grater or the shredding disk of a food processor.
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Chop the pecans very finely.
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Place the grated cheese, softened cream cheese, chopped pecans, onion, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic in a large bowl. Mix with a spoon or clean hands until evenly combined.
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Shape the cheese mixture into a 12-inch log. It should be about 2–3 inches in diameter.
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Sprinkle the chili powder on a cutting board and roll the cheese log in it until fully coated. Pat extra chili powder onto any uncovered areas as needed.
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Serve by slicing the cheese log into thin slices and spreading it on crackers.
Notes
You can substitute an equal amount of soy sauce for the Worcestershire sauce. You can also use ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder instead of minced garlic, and walnuts can be used in place of pecans.
Avoid placing the cheese roll directly on any surface that may stain, such as marble. A wooden board or washable serving platter is a better option.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 46mg
Sodium: 284mg
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Crescent Roll Veggie Pizza
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Crockpot BBQ Meatballs
