Snow Log
A creamy, sweet cheese log coated with wafer crumbs and filled with maraschino cherries, perfect for festive occasions or as a delightful appetizer tray centerpiece.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese and beat until smooth.
- Blot all moisture from the chopped maraschino cherries with paper towels.
- Work in the confectioners sugar, vanilla wafer crumbs, salt, and cherries into the cream cheese, adding more sugar if needed to achieve a workable consistency.
- Shape the mixture into a log about 1 1/2 to 2 inches in diameter.
- Roll the log in wafer crumbs to coat evenly.
- Wrap in waxed paper and store in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.
- Slice into thin slices when ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Snow Log, consider adding a splash of almond extract or a handful of chopped nuts for added texture. If you can't find vanilla wafer crumbs, crushed graham crackers or even digestive biscuits can work as a substitute. Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth mixture, and check the consistency; you may need more confectioners sugar depending on humidity.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the Snow Log into thin rounds and serve as a delightful dessert or snack. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect treat for afternoon gatherings. You could also serve it alongside a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. For a festive touch, arrange the slices on a platter with fresh fruit.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers of the Snow Log wrapped tightly in waxed paper and placed in an airtight plastic bag in the refrigerator. This will keep it fresh for up to a week. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply slice off the desired amount and serve directly from the fridge; no reheating is needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Snow Log contains roughly 114 calories, with 2g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1876mg per serving (82% 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 use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind it may affect the texture slightly. The Snow Log may not be as creamy as with regular cream cheese. Always ensure it’s softened to achieve the best mixing results.
How can I make this dessert gluten-free?
To make the Snow Log gluten-free, simply substitute vanilla wafer crumbs with a gluten-free cookie alternative, like crushed gluten-free graham crackers. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
Can I freeze the Snow Log?
Yes, you can freeze the Snow Log! Wrap it tightly in waxed paper and then in plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to a month. To enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before slicing. This makes it a great make-ahead treat for gatherings.
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).