Ham and Cheese Logs: A Perfect Snack or Appetizer for Any Occasion
When you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer, look no further than these easy-to-make Ham and Cheese Logs. With just a handful of ingredients, including sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, ripe olives, and pecans, this savory treat is sure to impress guests at your next gathering or serve as a satisfying afternoon snack. This recipe is also flexible—you can prepare one log for immediate serving and freeze the other for later, making it a great option for preparing in advance. Serve with your favorite crackers, and you’ll have a snack that’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or any casual get-together.
Ham and Cheese Logs Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 4 oz |
| Cream cheese | 1 package (8 oz) |
| Ripe olives | 1 cup, chopped |
| Pecans | 1/2 cup, chopped |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 261.6 kcal |
| Fat Content | 24.7 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 11.3 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 57.1 mg |
| Sodium Content | 460.8 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 2.9 g |
| Fiber Content | 0.9 g |
| Sugar Content | 0.4 g |
| Protein Content | 8.4 g |
Preparation Instructions
-
Prepare the Cheese Mixture
Start by letting the sharp cheddar cheese come to room temperature. This will help it blend more easily with the cream cheese. In a small mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature cheddar cheese with the cream cheese. Use a hand mixer or spoon to beat them together until smooth and well incorporated. -
Add the Ham and Olives
Once the cheese mixture is smooth, add the chopped ham and stir it in until evenly distributed. Then, fold in the chopped ripe olives, which will add a lovely salty contrast to the creamy cheese and ham mixture. After all ingredients are well combined, cover the mixture and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the mixture helps it firm up, making it easier to shape into logs. -
Shape the Logs
After chilling, remove the mixture from the fridge. Using your hands, divide the mixture into two portions and roll each one into an 8-inch log shape. This step is easy, but it helps to keep your hands slightly damp to avoid the mixture sticking. -
Roll in Pecans
Place the chopped pecans onto a clean surface, such as a cutting board. Roll each log in the pecans until the entire surface is coated. The pecans add a wonderful crunch and flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy, savory filling. -
Serve
Once your Ham and Cheese Logs are ready, slice them into 1-inch pieces and serve with your favorite crackers. This appetizer is best served cold or at room temperature, and it pairs wonderfully with a light wine or a refreshing beverage.
Recipe Notes
- Make Ahead: This recipe is perfect for preparing ahead of time. If you’re planning for an event, you can make the logs a day or two in advance. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper and store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
- Freezing Option: If you’d like to have an extra log on hand for later, these logs freeze beautifully. Simply roll them as instructed, wrap them tightly, and freeze. When you’re ready to serve, let them thaw in the fridge for several hours before slicing.
- Customization: Feel free to switch up the nuts or use a different type of cheese to suit your tastes. You could use a mild mozzarella for a softer flavor or even add some shredded Parmesan for an extra kick. If you prefer, swap out the olives for pickles or diced peppers for a different twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and no cooking required, this recipe is as simple as it gets. It’s perfect for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a hassle-free snack.
- Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of creamy cheese, savory ham, and crunchy pecans is a flavor combination that everyone can agree on.
- Versatile: Whether you’re preparing for a brunch, lunch, or an afternoon gathering, these Ham and Cheese Logs are a guaranteed hit. They’re also great for picnics or serving at holiday events.
- Customizable: The beauty of this recipe is in its flexibility. You can tweak the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Swap out the olives for capers, try different cheeses, or even go for a different nut to coat the logs.
Enjoy this easy, delicious, and flavorful Ham and Cheese Log recipe, and be prepared to watch it disappear in no time at all!
