Evelyn'S Cheese Log
Evelyn's Cheese Log combines sharp cheese, cream cheese, and bold spices, offering a creamy, spicy, and nutty appetizer perfect for gatherings and cheese lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the grated sharp cheese, cream cheese, lemon juice, Texas Pete hot sauce, red pepper, garlic salt, chili powder, and paprika.
- Divide the mixture into 2 parts; shape each into logs or balls.
- Roll the shaped logs or balls in a mixture of chili powder, paprika, and finely chopped pecans.
- Garnish with cherries or pecan halves before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or substituting the Texas Pete with your favorite hot sauce. If sharp cheese is too intense for your taste, mild cheddar works well. You can also experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds instead of pecans, depending on your preference. This recipe is perfect for entertaining, so prepare it a day ahead for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Evelyn's Cheese Log with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or baguette slices for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with a fruit platter or a glass of white wine. For a complete spread, consider adding Easy And Good No Knead Yeast Rolls or some charcuterie items to the table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese logs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. To serve after freezing, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and allow them to come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Evelyn'S Cheese Log contains roughly 85 calories, with 2g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 597mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. For the grated cheese, look for a plant-based cheese that melts well. This way, you can enjoy a vegan version of this delicious cheese log without sacrificing taste.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, reduce the amount of Texas Pete hot sauce or omit the red pepper. If you prefer it spicier, consider adding more chili powder or incorporating crushed red pepper flakes. Tasting the mixture before shaping it into logs can help you find the perfect balance for your palate.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you don't have pecans or prefer a different nut, walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds make great substitutes. The key is to chop them finely so they adhere well to the cheese log. You could also use a mixture of nuts for added texture and flavor, catering to your personal preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).