1. Home
  2. Recipes
  3. Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese

Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese

Category: Perfect Pairings & Anytime Bites

This appetizer features a creamy blend of goat and cream cheeses sweetened with honey, rolled in a savory mix of crispy bacon, pecans, cranberries, and rosemary. The cheese log is chilled to meld the layers of flavor, then served with crunchy crackers or crostini. The combination offers a balance of creamy, sweet, and smoky notes with a pleasant crunch. Ideal for parties or any social occasion, it can be prepared ahead for easy entertaining.

Save on Pinterest Share This Recipe Email This Recipe Print This Recipe Go Directly to Recipe
Breanna smiling at the camera.
Created By Breanna
Last updated on Sat, 29 Nov 2025 17:44:40 GMT
A slice of bacon wrapped around a goat cheese log. Save
A slice of bacon wrapped around a goat cheese log. | foodiffy.com

This Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log is my secret weapon whenever I host friends. It brings together creamy tangy cheese, smoky bacon, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans into one irresistible bite.

I threw this together on a whim for a small gathering and it immediately became a party favorite everyone asked for seconds

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces of softened goat cheese: for that signature tangy creaminess look for a fresh log with a smooth texture
  • 4 ounces of softened cream cheese: to add richness and smooth out the goat cheese choose full fat for best flavor
  • 1 tablespoon honey: brings a touch of natural sweetness balance the salty bacon well choose raw or mild honey
  • Half a cup of chopped crispy cooked bacon: adds smoky saltiness make sure to crisp it well so it doesn&t get soggy
  • Quarter cup of chopped pecans: gives crunch and a subtle nutty flavor select fresh pecans without any bitterness
  • Quarter cup of chopped dried cranberries: adds sweet tart pops look for plump bright cranberries with no added sugar if possible
  • 1 tablespoon fresh minced rosemary: delivers an herbal fragrant lift pick sprigs with vibrant green leaves
  • 1 cup of fresh arugula for garnish: adds peppery bite and freshness use young leaves that are tender
  • Crackers or crostini for serving: choose sturdy options that can hold the cheese without breaking

Instructions

Build The Cheese Base:
In a medium bowl combine the softened goat cheese and cream cheese. Use a spatula to mix them thoroughly until the texture is totally smooth without lumps. This blending creates a creamy base that holds the toppings well.
Sweeten The Mixture:
Add the honey to the cheese blend. Fold it in gently so it is evenly incorporated but the cheese remains fluffy. The honey balances the tanginess and bacon&s saltiness beautifully.
Prepare The Topping Mix:
On a separate plate combine the chopped crispy bacon pecans dried cranberries and minced rosemary. Mixing these ingredients together ensures every bite of coating is packed with flavor and texture.
Shape The Log:
Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on your work surface and spoon the cheese mixture onto it. Use the wrap to help mold the mixture into a firm even log about 6 to 8 inches long. This step makes rolling and serving easy.
Coat The Cheese Log:
Roll the shaped cheese log on the plate of mixed toppings pressing gently as you go. Turn the log so all sides pick up a generous coating of bacon nuts berries and rosemary. The coating seals in flavor and creates a nice presentation.
Chill:
Place the coated cheese log onto a serving platter and tuck fresh arugula leaves around it. Cover loosely and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors meld and lets the log firm up for easier slicing.
Serve With Crackers:
Bring the cheese log out of the fridge and serve it with your favorite crackers or crostini. The crackers provide a crunchy vehicle for the creamy cheese and crunchy coating.
A log of bacon and goat cheese.
A log of bacon and goat cheese. | foodiffy.com

My favorite ingredient has to be the fresh rosemary. Its bright piney flavor really lifts the richness of the cheeses and bacon. I love how this appetizer pulls friends together around the table every time it comes out.

Storage Tips

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to two days to maintain freshness. Rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Ingredient Swaps

Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if preferred but toast them lightly for extra depth. Try dried cherries or apricots instead of cranberries to shift the sweetness profile slightly.

Serving Ideas

Serve this cheese log on a wooden board with a small knife for easy spreading. Add fresh figs grapes or apple slices around the platter for a colorful and elegant appetizer spread.

A slice of bacon with goat cheese and nuts on top.
A slice of bacon with goat cheese and nuts on top. | foodiffy.com

This appetizer offers an impressive combination of flavors with minimal effort, perfect for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of cheese works best for this dish?

Soft goat cheese combined with cream cheese offers a smooth, creamy texture that blends well with other ingredients.

→ Can I prepare this appetizer in advance?

Yes, chilling the cheese log for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor, and it can be stored up to two days refrigerated.

→ What can I serve with the cheese log?

Crackers or crostini provide a crunchy and easy way to enjoy the cheese log, complementing its creamy texture.

→ How do the pecans and cranberries contribute to the dish?

Pecans add a crunchy texture while cranberries bring a touch of natural sweetness, balancing the smoky bacon.

→ Is fresh rosemary important in this preparation?

Fresh rosemary adds a subtle herbal aroma and depth that brightens the overall flavor profile.

Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese

Creamy goat cheese with crispy bacon, pecans, and cranberries perfect for gatherings and entertaining.

Preparation Time
20 mins
Time to Cook
15 mins
Overall Time
35 mins
Created By: Breanna

Type of Recipe: Sides & Snacks

Cooking Difficulty: Suitable for Beginners

Cultural Origin: American

Portion Size: 12 Number of Servings (One cheese log serving 10 to 12 people)

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients Required

→ Cheese Blend

01 227 g goat cheese, softened
02 113 g cream cheese, softened

→ Sweetener

03 15 ml honey

→ Toppings

04 120 ml chopped crispy cooked bacon
05 30 ml chopped pecans
06 30 ml dried cranberries, chopped
07 15 ml fresh rosemary, minced

→ Garnish

08 240 ml arugula

→ Serving

09 Crackers or crostini

Guide to Cooking

Step 01

In a medium bowl, blend softened goat cheese and cream cheese until smooth and homogenous.

Step 02

Add honey to the cheese mixture and fold gently until fully integrated.

Step 03

On a separate plate, combine chopped bacon, pecans, cranberries, and minced rosemary evenly.

Step 04

Using plastic wrap, form the cheese mixture into an even log shape.

Step 05

Roll the cheese log over the bacon, pecan, cranberry, and rosemary mixture to coat all sides thoroughly.

Step 06

Place the coated cheese log on a serving platter and arrange arugula around as garnish.

Step 07

Refrigerate the cheese log for a minimum of 30 minutes to meld flavors.

Step 08

Present the chilled cheese log with an assortment of crackers or crostini.

Extra Suggestions

  1. Use high-quality goat cheese and bacon for optimal flavor and texture.
  2. Prepare up to 2 days in advance and keep refrigerated.
  3. Offering a variety of crackers or crostini enhances serving options.

Necessary Equipment

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Plastic wrap
  • Serving platter
  • Separate plate for coating mixture

Allergen Info

Always check ingredient labels for allergens, and talk to a health expert if you’re unsure.
  • Contains dairy, nuts, and may contain gluten depending on cracker choice

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Nutrition facts are for general information and shouldn’t replace professional health advice.
  • Energy (Calories): 250
  • Fats: 18 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Protein: 10 g