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A rectangular cowboy caviar cheese log, rich with black beans, corn, and peppers, generously topped with fresh pico de gallo, served on a white plate with tortilla chips.
Daniel

Cowboy Caviar Cheese Log

This zesty, creamy Cowboy Caviar Cheese Log is a party-perfect appetizer, blending tangy cream cheese with a vibrant, fresh 'caviar' topping of black beans, corn, and bell peppers.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Log
  • 16 oz cream cheese 2 blocks, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin divided
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder divided
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Cowboy Caviar Topping
  • 1 can black beans 15-ounce, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn frozen, thawed and drained, or canned, drained
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper finely diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 2 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Electric mixer (handheld or stand)
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

Prepare the Cheese Log Base
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of the ground cumin, 1/4 teaspoon of the chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Use an electric mixer to beat on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
  2. Transfer the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Using the plastic wrap, form the mixture into a log shape, about 6-8 inches long. Wrap it tightly and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Prepare the Cowboy Caviar Topping
  1. While the cheese log chills, prepare the cowboy caviar topping. In a separate medium bowl, combine the rinsed and drained black beans, corn, finely diced red bell pepper, finely diced red onion, chopped fresh cilantro, freshly squeezed lime juice, the remaining 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon chili powder. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
Assemble the Cheese Log
  1. Once the cheese log is firm, unwrap it and place it on a clean serving platter or a piece of parchment paper. Spread the cowboy caviar mixture evenly onto a shallow dish or plate. Carefully roll the cheese log through the caviar mixture, pressing gently, until it is thoroughly coated on all sides. You may need to use your hands to press any loose pieces onto the log.
  2. Once coated, place the cowboy caviar cheese log back onto a serving platter. Chill for another 15-30 minutes if you have time, allowing the flavors to meld and the log to firm up nicely. Serve immediately with your favorite tortilla chips, crackers, or pita bread.

Notes

Make Ahead Magic: You can prepare the cheese log base and the cowboy caviar topping separately a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator. Just before serving, combine them by rolling the log in the caviar.
Add a Kick: For those who like a little heat, add 1-2 tablespoons of finely minced fresh jalapeƱo (seeds removed for less heat) to the cowboy caviar mixture.
Serving Suggestions: This log is fantastic with sturdy tortilla chips, but also great with sturdy crackers like Ritz, or even crisp raw vegetables like bell pepper strips or cucumber slices for a lighter option.