The Perfect Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe

Creamy and packed with festive holiday antipasto flavors, this cheese log delivers a stunning appetizer that will steal the show at any gathering.

Loaded with savory ingredients, the recipe combines rich cream cheese with zesty Italian-inspired elements.

Each slice promises a burst of delightful tastes that dance across your palate.

Colorful herbs and tangy olives create a beautiful presentation that looks as good as it tastes.

Guests will be impressed by the elegant and easy-to-prepare appetizer that feels like a gourmet treat.

This crowd-pleasing starter transforms simple ingredients into a memorable dish everyone will adore.

Prepare to wow your guests with this irresistible appetizer that’s sure to become a holiday tradition.

What Makes the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log a Winner

• Minimal prep steps make this recipe a breeze for home cooks of all skill levels, allowing you to create a stunning appetizer without stress.
• Packed with tangy olives, roasted red peppers, and marinated artichokes, this cream cheese log delivers bold Mediterranean-inspired tastes that will impress guests.
• Designed for holiday gatherings, potlucks, and casual get-togethers, this appetizer looks elegant yet requires minimal culinary expertise to prepare.
• Flexible recipe allows simple ingredient swaps or additions to match personal preferences or dietary needs, making it adaptable for various palates.

Key Ingredients for a Flavorful Cheese Log

• Cream Cheese: A smooth and creamy base that provides rich texture and tangy flavor to the holiday appetizer.
• Roasted Red Peppers: Sweet and smoky peppers that add vibrant color and depth to the cheese mixture.
• Green Olives, Black Olives: Briny and savory olives that contribute a distinctive Mediterranean flavor profile.

• Parmesan Cheese: A sharp and salty cheese that enhances the overall taste of the log.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that brings traditional Mediterranean flavor to the appetizer.
• Garlic Powder: A convenient seasoning that adds a mild, aromatic garlic taste.
• Black Pepper: A classic spice that provides a subtle heat and warmth to the mixture.

• Parsley, Fresh Rosemary: Herbs that provide a fresh, green garnish and subtle herbal notes.
• Cranberries: Bright and tart berries that add a festive holiday touch and visual appeal.
• Marinated Artichoke Hearts: Tangy and tender artichokes that contribute a unique Mediterranean flavor.

Kitchen Tools for Rolling and Serving Cheese Log

• Mixing Bowl: Medium-sized bowl for blending ingredients smoothly.
• Plastic Wrap: Essential for shaping and chilling the cheese log.
• Large Plate: Used for coating the log with parsley and as a serving platter.
• Cutting Board: For chopping parsley and preparing garnishes.
• Knife: Sharp knife for finely chopping parsley and slicing baguette.
• Spatula or Spoon: Helps mix ingredients and transfer cheese mixture.

How to Prepare Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Easily

Step 1: Blend Delicious Ingredients

• Roasted red peppers
• Green olives
• Black olives
• Marinated artichoke hearts
• Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Black pepper

Stir all ingredients thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and well-incorporated, creating a rich and flavorful base.

Step 2: Shape Into Elegant Log

Lay out a large plastic wrap sheet on a clean surface.

Transfer the cheese mixture onto the wrap and carefully mold it into a cylindrical log shape.

Wrap the log tightly, ensuring its form remains consistent.

Refrigerate for 2 hours or until the log becomes firm and holds its shape perfectly.

Step 3: Create Vibrant Herbal Coating

Spread finely chopped parsley across a wide plate.

Remove the chilled cheese log from the refrigerator and gently roll it through the parsley, applying light pressure to create an even, green herbal exterior.

Step 4: Decorate With Festive Touches

Place the herb-coated log on a beautiful serving platter.

Artfully arrange fresh rosemary sprigs and bright red cranberries around the log, transforming it into a stunning holiday centerpiece.

Step 5: Prepare For Delightful Sharing

• Crisp crackers
• Toasted baguette slices
• Fresh vegetable sticks

Invite guests to dive in and enjoy this delectable appetizer.

Cheese Log Tips for a Perfect Party Spread

• Refrigerate the log for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and achieve a firmer consistency that's easier to slice and serve.
• Press parsley gently when coating to ensure even coverage without crushing the delicate herb or creating thick clumps.
• Adjust seasonings like garlic powder and Italian seasoning to match your personal taste preference or dietary needs.
• Let the cheese log sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance flavor release.
• Prepare the log up to 2 days in advance and store covered in the refrigerator to simplify holiday party planning.

Tasty Twists for Your Cream Cheese Log

• Herb Garden Variation: Replace parsley with a mix of fresh thyme, basil, and chives for a vibrant, aromatic coating that adds complex herbal notes.
• Mediterranean Makeover: Swap roasted red peppers with sun-dried tomatoes, add kalamata olives, and sprinkle za'atar spice blend for a Middle Eastern-inspired version.
• Spicy Southwest Spin: Incorporate diced jalapeños, replace Parmesan with cotija cheese, and coat the log with crushed chili flakes and chopped cilantro for a bold, zesty profile.
• Vegan Friendly Adaptation: Use dairy-free cream cheese alternative, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast, and incorporate roasted vegetables like bell peppers and eggplant for rich, creamy texture.

Fun Ways to Present the Holiday Cheese Log

• Party Platter Perfection: Arrange the cheese log as the centerpiece with crackers and bread slices radiating outward like a sunburst.
• Holiday Appetizer Elegance: Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling prosecco to elevate the flavor profile and create a sophisticated starter.
• Colorful Dipping Station: Set out an array of colorful vegetable sticks like red bell peppers, cucumber spears, and carrot strips for a fresh, crunchy accompaniment.
• Festive Presentation Touch: Scatter pomegranate seeds or additional cranberries around the log to add bright pops of color and seasonal flair.

Storage Solutions for Your Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

• Wrap the cheese log tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, sealing it completely to prevent air exposure. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, maintaining its fresh flavor and creamy texture.
• Place the wrapped cheese log in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 1 month, preserving its delicious taste and consistency.
• Transfer the frozen cheese log to the refrigerator and let it thaw slowly overnight. Avoid room temperature thawing to prevent texture changes and potential bacterial growth.
• Bring the cheese log to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Gently reshape if needed and add fresh herbs or garnishes to refresh its appearance and flavor.

FAQs

• What are the key flavor profiles in this antipasto cream cheese log?

The recipe blends tangy cream cheese with briny roasted red peppers, olives, and marinated artichoke hearts, creating a rich and complex flavor profile that combines savory, salty, and slightly tart notes.

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this antipasto log is perfect for advance preparation. You can make it up to 2-3 days before serving, which allows the flavors to meld and intensify, making it even more delicious for your holiday gathering.

• Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian guests?

Absolutely! The recipe is vegetarian-friendly, featuring cream cheese, vegetables, and herbs. It provides a delightful appetizer option for guests who don’t eat meat while still offering robust, satisfying flavors.