If you are searching for a vibrant and crowd-pleasing appetizer for your celebrations, this Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe is just the ticket. It brings together creamy, savory, and tangy flavors in one beautiful, easy-to-make cheese log that instantly becomes the centerpiece of any holiday spread. With a delightful mix of sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted peppers, and savory salami all folded into smooth cream cheese, each bite bursts with traditional Italian-inspired goodness. This recipe is as fun to eat as it is to serve, ideal for sharing with friends and family during those joyful festive gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet irresistible ingredients is the first step toward a delicious Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe. Each item plays a special role in building layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color, making the final dish pop on your holiday table.
- Cream cheese (2 blocks, 8 ounces each): Provides the creamy, smooth base that binds all the flavors together.
- Sun-dried tomatoes (1/4 cup, chopped): Offer a sweet-tart kick and a lovely chewy texture.
- Green olives (1/4 cup, chopped): Add briny notes that balance richness perfectly.
- Roasted red peppers (1/4 cup, chopped): Bring a smoky sweetness and bright color.
- Salami or pepperoni (1/4 cup, chopped): Inject a savory, meaty punch that makes it festive.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Gives a fresh herbal brightness and beautiful green flecks.
- Basil (1 tablespoon fresh or 1/2 teaspoon dried): Adds warmth and a hint of aromatic complexity.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances depth with subtle garlicky undertones.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Lightly spices up the entire blend, rounding out flavors.
- Pistachios or walnuts (1/4 cup, chopped, optional): Used for coating to introduce an irresistible crunch and nuttiness.
- Crackers or crostini: Serve as the perfect crispy vehicles for scooping the cheese log.
How to Make Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Begin by softening your cream cheese to room temperature—this ensures that it mixes easily with the other ingredients. In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese with sun-dried tomatoes, green olives, roasted red peppers, chopped salami, fresh parsley, basil, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is uniform with evenly distributed chunks of savory and colorful additions. This step is where the magic starts, melding flavors that transport you directly to an Italian antipasto platter.
Step 2: Shape the Cheese Log
Once your mixture is well combined, transfer it to a sheet of plastic wrap. Using your hands or a spatula, carefully mold the mixture into a firm log shape. This shaping step transforms the creamy filling into a stunning presentation piece that looks as good as it tastes. Wrap the log tightly in the plastic wrap to keep its shape and prevent it from drying out.
Step 3: Chill and Firm Up
Place the wrapped cheese log in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling time is essential as it allows the flavors to marry and the log to firm up so that it slices beautifully when served. Planning ahead? This recipe is a perfect make-ahead option, as the log can be refrigerated for up to three days before your party.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Before serving, unwrap the chilled cheese log and, if desired, roll it gently in chopped pistachios or walnuts to add a delightful nutty crunch and a festive green or brown coating. Place the log on a serving platter surrounded by an array of crackers or crostini. A sprinkle of extra fresh parsley or basil leaves adds an inviting burst of color that will make your appetizer the star of the table.
How to Serve Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley and basil are your best friends here—they not only add gorgeous pops of green but also refresh the palate. Consider a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a subtle touch of sweetness and sophistication that enhances the antipasto flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This antipasto cheese log pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, marinated vegetables, or a platter of fresh seasonal fruit to balance the richness. Your choice of crackers or toasted crostini complements the creamy texture perfectly, giving some much-appreciated crunch to every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Instead of a simple log, try shaping the mixture into a wreath or forming into individual bite-sized balls rolled in nuts or herbs for a fun twist. Serve on a wooden board with colorful charcuterie elements—think cured meats, olives, and roasted peppers—so guests can build their perfect appetizer bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover cheese log, store it tightly wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh and flavorful for up to three days, making it super convenient to prepare in advance or enjoy as a snack after your celebration.
Freezing
While this recipe is best served fresh, you can freeze the shaped log before coating it in nuts. Wrap it very well in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before coating and serving.
Reheating
This is a no-cook recipe, so reheating is not necessary or recommended. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor experience.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the salami and increase the amounts of sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and roasted peppers to keep the same delicious balance of flavors without meat.
What type of crackers work best for serving this cheese log?
Choose sturdy, crispy crackers or toasted crostini that can hold a generous scoop of the creamy cheese without breaking apart. Plain or lightly flavored varieties complement the bold antipasto flavors well.
Can I substitute different nuts for the coating?
Yes, pistachios and walnuts are excellent, but feel free to use pecans, almonds, or even seeds like pumpkin for a unique texture and flavor. Just make sure to chop them finely to stick well to the cheese log.
How far in advance can I prepare the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe?
You can prepare the log up to three days before your event. Keep it tightly wrapped and refrigerated until ready to roll in nuts and serve.
Is there a gluten-free option for this appetizer?
Definitely! Simply serve the cheese log with gluten-free crackers or crisp vegetable slices such as cucumber or bell pepper strips for a naturally gluten-free delight.
Final Thoughts
This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe is a guaranteed winner for your holiday gatherings. Its irresistible blend of flavors, ease of preparation, and beautiful presentation will have guests asking for the recipe. Don’t hesitate to make this festive favorite—it’s a delicious way to kick off your celebrations and share a little Italian-inspired joy with those you love.
Print
Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a flavorful and vibrant appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Combining creamy softened cream cheese with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers, and savory salami, it offers a delightful medley of Italian-inspired tastes. Rolled into a log and chilled until firm, then optionally coated with chopped pistachios or walnuts, it pairs beautifully with crackers or crostini for an easy, make-ahead party dip that impresses with its festive colors and rich flavors.
Ingredients
Base
- 2 (8-ounce) blocks cream cheese, softened
Mix-Ins
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)
- 1/4 cup chopped green olives
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted red peppers
- 1/4 cup chopped salami or pepperoni
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Coating and Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios or walnuts (optional, for coating)
- Additional parsley or basil, for garnish
Serving
- Crackers or crostini, for serving
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with sun-dried tomatoes, green olives, roasted red peppers, salami, parsley, basil, garlic powder, and black pepper until fully incorporated and evenly combined.
- Shape the Log: Spoon the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap, then shape it carefully into a compact log form. Wrap tightly in the plastic wrap to maintain shape.
- Chill: Refrigerate the wrapped cream cheese log for at least 2 hours or until firm enough to slice, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
- Coat the Log: Before serving, unwrap the chilled log and roll it in chopped pistachios or walnuts if using, to add texture and festive color.
- Serve: Place the prepared log on a serving platter, garnish with additional parsley or basil for visual appeal, and surround it with crackers or crostini for easy dipping and spreading.
Notes
- This recipe can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator to save time on the day of your event.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the salami and increase the quantity of sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and roasted red peppers slightly to maintain robust flavor.
- For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle the log lightly with balsamic glaze just before serving.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and smooth texture.
