What You’ll Need
- Cream cheese. Soften two 8-ounce blocks so the ranch seasoning blends evenly throughout.
- Finely chopped pecans. Toast 1½ cups for the coating and reserve the remaining ½ cup to fill any gaps.
- Dry ranch seasoning. One 1-ounce packet adds savory herb and onion flavor to the cream cheese.
How to Shape and Coat the Cheese Log
Scoop the seasoned cream cheese onto parchment paper or plastic wrap and shape it into a log about 6 to 8 inches long. If it feels too soft to handle, refrigerate it briefly before rolling. Let the toasted pecans cool completely, then press them gently into the surface so they stay in place.
How to Serve a Pecan Cheese Log
Refrigerate the coated log for at least 1 to 2 hours, until firm. Set it out 10 to 15 minutes before serving so it spreads easily. Arrange crackers around the platter and add a small cheese knife or spreader.
Southern 3-Ingredient Pecan Cheese Log Recipe Card
A creamy ranch cheese log coated in finely chopped pecans.
- Prep time — About 15 minutes, plus cooling the pecans
- Toasting time — 4 to 6 minutes
- Chill time — 1 to 2 hours, or until firm
- Servings — 10 to 12
Ingredients
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups finely chopped pecans, divided
- 1 packet (1 ounce) dry ranch seasoning mix
Instructions
- Line a small baking sheet or platter with parchment paper or plastic wrap.
- Place 1½ cups of the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. Transfer to a plate and cool completely.
- Beat the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning together until smooth and evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared surface and shape it into a log about 6 to 8 inches long.
- Spread the cooled toasted pecans in a shallow dish. Roll the cheese log in them, pressing gently to coat. Use the remaining ½ cup pecans to cover any gaps.
- Transfer to a serving platter, cover, and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, or until firm enough to slice.
- Let stand for 10 to 15 minutes before serving with crackers.