Ranch Dressing Cheese Log
This recipe creates a savory cheese log using cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and ranch dressing mix. The mixture is blended, chilled, shaped into a log, coated in chopped pecans, and served as an appetizer with crackers or bagel chips.
Equipment
- 1 Stand Mixer Or a large mixing bowl and hand mixer
- 1 Plastic Wrap
- 1 Baking Sheet or Wax Paper For rolling the log in nuts
Ingredients
Main
- 12 ounces cream cheese room temperature
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup buttermilk well shaken
- One 1-ounce package ranch dressing mix such as Hidden Valley
- 16 ounces Cheddar cheese grated, room temperature
- 1 cup pecans roughly chopped
- Crackers or bagel chips for serving
Instructions
- In a stand mixer, beat together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, buttermilk and dressing mix. Add the Cheddar cheese and continue beating until thoroughly blended. Wrap the mixture in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for 30 minutes. When firm, shape the wrapped cheese mixture into a log. Spread the pecans out on a baking sheet or a piece of wax paper. Unwrap the cheese log and roll it in the nuts to coat it on all sides. Serve with crackers or bagel chips.
Notes
Ensure cream cheese and grated cheddar are at true room temperature for effortless blending into a smooth, uniform base. If the mixture is too soft after chilling, freeze slightly longer until it's firm enough to hold its shape while rolling. Toasting the pecans lightly before coating will enhance their flavor and crunch. Consider adding chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley to the nut coating for added color and freshness. Serve the cheese log at cool room temperature for easy spreading.