Rustic Log Cabin Appetizer (Printable)

A fun, rustic appetizer featuring layered pretzels and cheese arranged like a classic log cabin.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Main Components

01 - 24 large pretzel rods
02 - 10 oz sharp cheddar cheese, cut into long rectangular slices approximately 4-5 inches long and ½ inch thick
03 - 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into similar long slices

→ Garnish & Extras

04 - ½ cup whipped cream cheese or soft cheese spread
05 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley
06 - 1 small red bell pepper, diced
07 - Crackers, for serving

# How-To:

01 - Cut cheddar and mozzarella into long, even slices resembling planks approximately 4-5 inches long and ½ inch thick.
02 - Select a rectangular serving board or platter for assembling the layers.
03 - Arrange pretzel rods to form an outer rectangular frame measuring about 6 by 4 inches.
04 - Alternate layers of pretzel rods and cheese slices, stacking up to 4-5 layers high, applying small amounts of whipped cream cheese as mortar to hold pieces together if needed.
05 - Top the structure with extra cheese slices for the roof and use diced red bell pepper to add windows, doors, or chimney details.
06 - Sprinkle chopped chives or parsley on top for decoration and serve alongside crackers.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It's a showstopper that takes just 20 minutes, so you look like you spent hours in the kitchen without the actual effort.
  • Everyone can participate in building it—even kids get excited about stacking and decorating their own cabin.
  • The combination of salty pretzels, creamy cheese, and tangy cream cheese mortar creates an addictive flavor balance that keeps people coming back for more.
02 -
  • Cream cheese as mortar only works if you use it sparingly—too much and your cabin becomes greasy and loses its appeal. A thin layer is all you need.
  • The temperature of your room matters more than you'd think. If it's warm, chill your assembled cabin for 10 minutes before serving so the cheese stays firm and your structure holds its shape with pride.
03 -
  • Assemble your cabin no more than an hour before serving so the cheese stays firm and the pretzels maintain their crunch. If you need to make it earlier, keep it refrigerated and remove it 15 minutes before guests arrive.
  • The cream cheese mortar should be soft enough to spread but cold enough to set quickly. Room temperature cream cheese that's slightly chilled works better than fully softened or cold-straight-from-the-fridge versions.
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