Name: Goat Cheese Log with Apricots and Almonds
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 8 oz goat cheese or cream cheese; ⅓ cup lightly salted almonds crushed; 4 –5 dried apricots chopped; 2 –3 tsp chopped parsley or basil; ¼ –½ cup apricot preserves; Honey for drizzling; Crackers and sliced Granny Smith apple to serve

This Goat Cheese Log with Apricots and Almonds is a show-stopping yet effortless appetizer that takes just minutes to prepare but always impresses.

Creamy goat cheese is rolled in a crunchy mix of lightly salted almonds, chopped dried apricots, and fresh herbs, then served atop a layer of apricot preserves with a honey drizzle finish.

Perfect for holidays, wine nights, or last-minute entertaining, this cheese board centerpiece pairs beautifully with crackers and crisp green apple slices, making every bite irresistibly balanced between creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy – 10 minutes from start to serve

Elegant and eye-catching – A beautiful appetizer for any occasion

Flavorful contrast – Creamy cheese, crunchy nuts, sweet fruit

Versatile and crowd-pleasing – Pairs well with wine, fruit, and crackers

Make-ahead friendly – Can be prepped and chilled in advance

No cooking required – Just mix, roll, and serve

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Goat cheese (or cream cheese) – Soft, spreadable base with tangy flavor

Lightly salted almonds – Crushed for a satisfying nutty crunch

Dried apricots – Sweet and chewy contrast

Fresh herbs – Parsley or basil for brightness and color

Apricot preserves – Sticky-sweet base that ties everything together

Honey – Drizzled over the top for a finishing touch

Crackers and green apples – For dipping, scooping, and serving

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use room temperature cheese – It’s easier to roll and spread

Chop apricots finely – So they coat evenly and stick well

Crush almonds in a bag – Use a bottle or rolling pin for quick results

Make ahead tip – Roll and wrap the log in plastic wrap to chill until serving

Serve on a flat platter – So the honey and preserves don’t run

How to Make Goat Cheese Log with Apricots and Almonds

Step 1: Prep the Cheese and Coating

Remove 8 oz goat cheese from packaging and let it soften at room temperature.

Place ⅓ cup lightly salted almonds in a bag or between paper towels and crush using a blunt object (like a glass bottle or rolling pin).

Chop 4–5 dried apricots and mix them in a small bowl with the crushed almonds and 2–3 tsp chopped parsley or basil.

Step 2: Roll and Assemble

Gently roll the softened goat cheese log in the apricot-almond-herb mixture, pressing gently to coat all sides.

Spread ¼–½ cup apricot preserves on your serving platter or tray and place the coated cheese log on top.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a generous drizzle of honey over the cheese log.

Serve immediately, surrounded by assorted crackers and sliced green apples for dipping and spreading.

What to Serve with a Goat Cheese Log

Crackers – Choose buttery, seedy, or neutral types

Fresh apple slices – Tart Granny Smith balance the sweet and savory

Sliced baguette or crostini – For a heartier bite

Nuts and dried fruits – Add to the board for variety

A glass of white wine or rosé – Pairs beautifully with goat cheese

Variations & Substitutions

Use cream cheese – A milder, kid-friendly option

Swap almonds for pecans or pistachios – For a different nutty flavor

Try fig jam or raspberry preserves – In place of apricot

Add chili flakes – For a sweet-heat combo

Make it vegan – Use dairy-free cream cheese and agave instead of honey

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Fridge – Wrap the cheese log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days

Make ahead – Assemble the log and store chilled until ready to serve

After serving – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge

Not freezer-friendly – Texture changes when thawed

FAQs

Can I use cream cheese instead of goat cheese?
Yes, cream cheese is softer, milder, and spreads well—great for a less tangy option.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Roll and chill it for up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this appetizer gluten-free?
Yes, just serve with gluten-free crackers or veggies.

Can I serve this warm?
It’s best served at room temperature. Warming may cause the cheese to lose structure.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, make two logs or one large one for a crowd.

What’s the best way to crush almonds?
Place in a resealable bag and hit gently with a rolling pin or bottle.

Final Thoughts

This Goat Cheese Log with Apricots and Almonds is one of those effortless appetizers that looks fancy, tastes incredible, and disappears fast.

Whether it’s for a cozy gathering or a big celebration, this combo of creamy cheese, crunchy almonds, sweet apricots, and a touch of honey hits every note.

Add it to your next cheese board—you won’t regret it.