Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese (Print Version)

A luxurious blend of creamy goat cheese, crispy bacon, sweet cranberries and pecans, elegantly formed into a show-stopping appetizer.

# Ingredients:

→ Cheese Base

01 - 225g goat cheese, softened
02 - 115g cream cheese, softened
03 - 1 tablespoon honey

→ Coating

04 - 120ml crispy cooked bacon, finely chopped
05 - 60ml pecans, chopped
06 - 60ml dried cranberries, chopped
07 - 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, minced

→ For Serving

08 - 240ml arugula, for garnish
09 - Crackers or crostini

# Steps:

01 - In a medium bowl, combine the softened goat cheese and cream cheese. Mix until smooth and well combined. Add honey to the cheese mixture and gently fold it in until fully incorporated.
02 - On a separate plate, mix together the chopped bacon, pecans, cranberries, and minced rosemary.
03 - Shape the cheese mixture into a log using plastic wrap to help mold it evenly.
04 - Roll the cheese log over the bacon, pecan, cranberry, and rosemary mixture until the log is well-coated on all sides.
05 - Place the coated cheese log on a serving platter. Arrange the arugula around the cheese log for garnish.
06 - Chill the cheese log in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
07 - Once chilled, serve the cheese log with your choice of crackers or crostini.

# Notes:

01 - Use high-quality goat cheese for a more exquisite flavor.
02 - Substitute almonds or walnuts if you prefer different nuts.
03 - The cheese log can be prepared a day in advance; just keep it wrapped and chilled until serving.
04 - Add a touch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
05 - This appetizer pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine.