Rosemary Cranberry Holiday Tree (Printable Version)

Festive blend of creamy cheese, tart cranberries, and rosemary shaped into an elegant holiday centerpiece.

# Ingredient List:

→ Cheese Base

01 - 8.8 oz cream cheese, softened
02 - 4.2 oz goat cheese, softened
03 - 1 tbsp honey
04 - 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
05 - Zest of 1/2 orange

→ Toppings & Decoration

06 - 1.8 oz dried cranberries, roughly chopped
07 - 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped, plus extra sprigs for garnish
08 - 1 oz pistachios, roughly chopped
09 - Seeds from 1 small pomegranate
10 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
11 - 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt

→ Serving

12 - Assorted crackers or gluten-free crackers
13 - Vegetable crudités (optional)

# Steps:

01 - In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, goat cheese, honey, black pepper, and orange zest. Mix until smooth and well blended.
02 - Place a large piece of plastic wrap on your work surface. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the center and use the wrap to shape it into a cone or triangle resembling a Christmas tree.
03 - Transfer the shaped cheese tree to a serving platter. Smooth the surface with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
04 - Press chopped cranberries, chopped pistachios, and pomegranate seeds onto the cheese tree, allowing some areas to overlap and others to remain uncovered for visual interest.
05 - Sprinkle chopped rosemary and parsley over the tree for a festive, green appearance.
06 - Garnish with extra rosemary sprigs to mimic pine needles and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
07 - Arrange crackers and/or vegetable crudités around the base of the tree.
08 - Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to firm up, or serve immediately if preferred.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Creamy and flavorful cheese base with a sweet and tart contrast
  • Festive presentation perfect for holiday entertaining
02 -
  • For a nut-free version omit pistachios or substitute with toasted pumpkin seeds
  • Pairs beautifully with sparkling wine or dry white wine
03 -
  • Use room temperature cheeses for easier mixing and smoother texture
  • Chill the shaped cheese tree properly to help it hold its shape when serving
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