Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

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The Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is everything your holiday spread has been missing. Creamy, tangy, and bursting with bold Mediterranean flavors, this eye-catching appetizer instantly becomes the centerpiece of any festive gathering. With its colorful medley of olives, peppers, herbs, and cheese, it’s like a Christmas wreath made edible. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party or bringing something to a potluck, this log delivers impressive flavor with minimal effort.

Not only does it look stunning, but it’s incredibly versatile. Serve it with crisp crackers, crusty bread, or even fresh veggies for dipping. You can make it ahead and let it chill overnight, giving the flavors time to meld perfectly. It’s a no-fuss, high-reward recipe that’s just as suitable for Christmas Eve as it is for New Year’s brunch. Trust me, it’s impossible to stop at just one bite.

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What Kind of Olives and Antipasto Should I Use?

When it comes to antipasto, variety equals depth of flavor. Opt for a mix of green and kalamata olives for briny contrast, and add chopped marinated artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, and roasted red peppers to provide that tangy-sweet Mediterranean bite. Try to get pitted olives to make prep easier. Jarred antipasto mixes can also work well in a pinch, but dicing your own gives you more control over flavor and texture.

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Ingredients for the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

• Cream Cheese: The creamy base that binds everything together and balances out the bold flavors.
• Sharp White Cheddar or Provolone: Adds extra cheesy depth and a firmer texture.
• Green and Kalamata Olives: A salty, tangy burst in every bite.
• Roasted Red Peppers: Adds sweetness, color, and contrast.
• Marinated Artichokes: Their vinegary tang is a must-have for classic antipasto flavor.
• Fresh Parsley and Rosemary: For that pop of freshness and festive greenery.
• Chopped Garlic or Garlic Powder: For subtle pungency that ties it all together.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): If you like a bit of heat, this wakes up the creamy base beautifully.

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How To Make the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Step 1: Soften the Cream Cheese

Let your cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to mix and shape later on.

Step 2: Prep the Antipasto Ingredients

Roughly chop the olives, roasted red peppers, artichokes, and any other antipasto additions. Make sure they’re well-drained to avoid adding too much moisture.

Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese Base

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp white cheddar or provolone, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Fold in the Antipasto

Add the chopped olives, peppers, and artichokes into the cream cheese mixture. Gently fold them in using a spatula to distribute evenly.

Step 5: Shape the Log

Spoon the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to help shape it into a log. Twist the ends of the plastic wrap tightly and chill for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.

Step 6: Garnish Before Serving

Unwrap the chilled log and transfer it to a serving board. Top with extra olives, diced peppers, fresh rosemary sprigs, and a few cranberries for festive flair. Serve with crackers or toasted bread slices.

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Serving and Storing This Cream Cheese Log

This antipasto cream cheese log is best served chilled but not ice cold—let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before guests arrive so it softens just enough for easy spreading. Place it on a wooden board surrounded by crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette. It also pairs beautifully with vegetable crudites like cucumber, celery, and bell pepper strips.

Store any leftovers tightly wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen even more after day one, making it a perfect make-ahead appetizer.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is actually one of those recipes that gets better as it sits. Prepare it a day in advance and let it chill overnight for the best flavor.

What if I don’t like olives?

You can easily skip the olives or replace them with chopped pickles, capers, or more marinated artichokes for a briny element without the olive flavor.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and skip the shredded cheese or use a plant-based version. The flavor will shift slightly but still be delicious.

How can I make this spicier?

Add more crushed red pepper flakes or finely chopped pickled jalapeños to the mix. A drizzle of hot honey on top before serving is also a fun, spicy-sweet twist.

What crackers go best with this?

Sturdy ones like water crackers, whole wheat crisps, or pita chips work best. You want something that won’t break easily under pressure.

Can I freeze the cream cheese log?

Technically yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Freezing may change the texture, especially with the chopped antipasto mixed in.

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Want More Appetizer Ideas for the Holidays?

If this antipasto cream cheese log made your holiday table pop, you’ll want to check out these other delicious crowd-pleasers:

• Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly for a sweet-heat bite that melts in your mouth.
• Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread for a gooey, festive bread perfect for grazing.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes as a savory main to balance your spread.
• Heart-Shaped Sugar Donuts when you want something sweet to complement your savory appetizers.
• Blueberry Swirl Yogurt Bites for a refreshing and light treat to end the meal.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so it’s ready when your next celebration rolls around.

And let me know how yours turned out! Did you try spicy additions or stick with the classic mix? Maybe you swapped in some feta or sun-dried tomatoes?

I love hearing your variations and ideas. Drop a comment below or tag me in your creations. Let’s keep the festive food inspiration going!

Find more daily recipe ideas over on my Pinterest: Life with Nina

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