Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

This vibrant and savory Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, olives, and a touch of salami or pepperoni, all wrapped into creamy cheese perfection. Rolled in colorful toppings, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious an instant holiday showstopper that’s perfect for entertaining!

Ingredients

For the Cream Cheese Log:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup black or green olives, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, finely chopped
• 1/3 cup salami or pepperoni, finely chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

For Garnish:

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped roasted red peppers
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped olives
• 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (optional, for crunch)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
   In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers, salami (if using), Parmesan, parsley, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Mix until creamy and fully combined.
2. Step 2: Shape the Log
   Spoon the mixture onto a large sheet of plastic wrap and shape into a log (about 8 inches long). Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, until firm.
3. Step 3: Garnish
   Mix the garnish ingredients in a shallow dish. Unwrap the chilled cheese log and gently roll in the garnish, pressing slightly so it adheres.
4. Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
   Place on a serving platter with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or veggie sticks. Serve cold or slightly softened for the best texture.

Variation (Expanded with helpful details)

1. Go Meat-Free:
   Skip the salami or pepperoni for a completely vegetarian version that still delivers bold, savory flavor from the sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and roasted red peppers. You won’t miss the meat with all those punchy Mediterranean ingredients.
2. Swap Cream Cheese for Goat Cheese or Boursin:
   For a tangier, more complex flavor profile, substitute part or all of the cream cheese with goat cheese or a garlic-herb soft cheese like Boursin. This gives the log a more elevated, gourmet feel perfect for upscale holiday gatherings.
3. Add a Crunchy Center:
   To surprise your guests, roll a small log of crushed nuts or finely diced pickles into the center of the cheese mixture before shaping. It adds a pop of texture and flavor with every bite, and makes the presentation even more interesting when sliced.

Cooking Notes (Expanded for clarity and success)

1. Soften Cream Cheese Properly:
   Let your cream cheese sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before mixing. This ensures a smooth, lump-free mixture and makes it much easier to combine with the other ingredients evenly.
2. Drain Moist Ingredients Well:
   Be sure to pat dry or drain ingredients like roasted red peppers and olives before adding them. Extra moisture can make the cheese log soggy or difficult to shape, so a quick press between paper towels goes a long way.
3. Chill for Maximum Flavor:
   While 2 hours of chilling is the minimum, letting the log rest overnight in the fridge allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. This also makes it firmer and easier to slice when serving.

Serving Suggestions (Expanded for creative, festive presentation)

1. Build a Holiday Board:
   Place the log on a wooden charcuterie board surrounded by crackers, crostini, cured meats, marinated veggies, and bunches of grapes. Add a few sprigs of rosemary for a fresh, holiday-green accent that looks and smells amazing.
2. Serve with Crunchy Dippers:
   Offer a mix of dippers like toasted baguette slices, seeded crackers, or even endive leaves for a low-carb, gluten-free option. The contrast in textures really complements the creamy, rich cheese.
3. Turn into a Cheese Ball Variation:
   Instead of forming a log, shape the mixture into a ball for a more classic cheese ball presentation. Roll in the same garnish toppings and serve in the center of a platter for a cozy, retro-style appetizer.

Tips (Expanded for extra insight and pro tricks)

1. Use Gloves When Shaping:
   The mixture can be sticky, so wearing disposable kitchen gloves when shaping the log helps keep things neat and hygienic especially if you’re making it for a crowd or holiday party.
2. Customize the Garnish Colors:
   For a more Christmas-y look, use chopped basil or parsley for green, roasted red peppers for red, and even a sprinkle of feta or pine nuts for a snowy-white contrast. It turns the log into a real holiday centerpiece.
3. Double the Recipe for a Crowd:
   This recipe is easily doubled if you’re hosting a larger group. Simply divide the mixture into two smaller logs or one large one, and chill a bit longer to allow it to firm up fully before serving.

Prep Time and Cooking Info

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours (minimum, or overnight)
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (includes chilling)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximately 1/10th of log)

• Calories: ~190
• Protein: ~5g
• Sodium: ~410mg
• Fat: ~17g
• Saturated Fat: ~9g
• Carbohydrates: ~4g
• Sugar: ~2g
• Fiber: ~1g
• Cholesterol: ~35mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes! This is a perfect make-ahead appetizer. You can prepare the log up to 3 days in advance. Just keep it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Garnish just before serving for the freshest look.
2. Can I freeze the cheese log?
   Technically, yes but it’s not recommended. Cream cheese can become grainy after freezing and thawing. For best texture and flavor, prepare fresh and store in the fridge.
3. How can I make this dairy-free?
   To make a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative, and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan Parmesan substitute. Be sure to check that your chosen brand has a smooth, spreadable consistency.
4. What can I serve with this besides crackers?
   Great question! Try it with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, cucumber rounds, bell pepper strips, or even endive leaves for a low-carb option. The creamy, savory flavor pairs beautifully with both crunchy and fresh dippers.

Conclusion

This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log isn’t just delicious it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a total time-saver during the busy holiday season. It’s bursting with bold, Mediterranean flavors and wrapped in a vibrant, eye-catching garnish that looks just as impressive as it tastes. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or contributing to a potluck, this easy make-ahead appetizer will be the first thing to disappear from the table.

Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

---

• Author: Avery
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8–10 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This vibrant and savory Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, olives, and a touch of salami or pepperoni, all wrapped into creamy cheese perfection. Rolled in colorful toppings, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious an instant holiday showstopper that’s perfect for entertaining!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Cream Cheese Log:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup black or green olives, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, finely chopped
• 1/3 cup salami or pepperoni, finely chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

For Garnish:

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped roasted red peppers
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped olives
• 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (optional, for crunch)

---

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
   In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers, salami (if using), Parmesan, parsley, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Mix until creamy and fully combined.
2. Step 2: Shape the Log
   Spoon the mixture onto a large sheet of plastic wrap and shape into a log (about 8 inches long). Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, until firm.
3. Step 3: Garnish
   Mix the garnish ingredients in a shallow dish. Unwrap the chilled cheese log and gently roll in the garnish, pressing slightly so it adheres.
4. Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
   Place on a serving platter with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or veggie sticks. Serve cold or slightly softened for the best texture.

Notes

• Make Ahead: Prepare up to 3 days in advance and keep wrapped in the fridge.
• Flavor Boost: Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for a sweet-savory finish.
• Variation: Swap cream cheese for goat cheese for a tangier twist.
• Presentation Idea: Serve on a wooden board with antipasto skewers, grapes, and rosemary sprigs for a festive look.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired, Holiday

Nutrition

• Serving Size: ~1/10th of log
• Calories: ~190
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 410mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: holiday appetizer, cream cheese log, antipasto log, make-ahead appetizer, festive cheese log