Description
The Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log is a creamy, savory, and smoky appetizer featuring a tangy goat cheese and cream cheese base folded with crispy bacon, fresh herbs, and optional nuts. Perfect for entertaining at holiday parties, casual gatherings, or special events, this make-ahead appetizer offers an elegant presentation and irresistible flavor combination that guests will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheeses
- 8 oz goat cheese, room temperature
- 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
Meat
- 8–10 strips of bacon, cooked until crispy and drained
Herbs and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-ins and Garnishes
- 1/4 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional)
- Extra crumbled bacon for coating and garnish
- Extra chopped fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Bacon: Cook the bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until they are crispy but not burnt. Drain the cooked bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces, reserving about one-third for coating the outside of the log.
- Mix the Cheese Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the room temperature goat cheese and cream cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating a spreadable base that balances tanginess and richness.
- Add Seasonings and Herbs: Add garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, chopped fresh chives, and parsley to the cheese mixture. Stir until well combined, distributing the herbs and seasonings evenly throughout.
- Fold in Bacon and Nuts: Gently fold in about two-thirds of the crumbled bacon and chopped nuts if using. Keep the remaining bacon and nuts separately for coating the exterior of the log later.
- Shape the Log: Lay out a sheet of plastic wrap and spoon the cheese mixture onto it. Shape the mixture into a rough log form using the plastic wrap to help roll and tighten the shape. Refrigerate the log for at least 1 hour to allow it to firm up.
- Coat and Garnish: Remove the chilled log from the fridge and unwrap it. Roll the log in the reserved crumbled bacon and chopped nuts, pressing gently to create a crunchy outer crust. Garnish the log with additional chopped fresh herbs for a vibrant and appealing finish.
Notes
- Use room temperature cheese to ensure smooth and even mixing.
- Chill the log thoroughly to help it hold its shape when sliced or served.
- Cook bacon evenly to achieve crispiness without burning.
- Finely chop herbs to evenly distribute flavors throughout the mixture.
- Serve with a variety of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks for a balanced appetizer platter.
- For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and substitute with smoked paprika, sun-dried tomatoes, or crispy fried mushrooms.
- The appetizer log can be made a day ahead to allow flavors to meld.
- Store leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1 oz)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: appetizer, bacon, goat cheese, cream cheese, party food, easy appetizer, savory, smoky, herb, holiday snack
