Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s bursting with flavor, gorgeous on a platter, and so easy to put together it almost feels like cheating, the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is your new go-to. It’s creamy, savory, tangy, and crunchy all at once—the kind of irresistible snack that disappears in minutes at any party.

Picture this: a rich log of smooth cream cheese wrapped in a colorful mix of marinated vegetables, olives, herbs, and sun-dried tomatoes. It looks like holiday magic on a serving tray and tastes like your favorite antipasto platter, all condensed into one perfect bite. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or bringing something to a potluck, this log will make you the hero of the evening.

Why You’ll Love This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

This appetizer is as easy as it is impressive. It requires no baking, no fancy equipment, and no stress. All you need is a handful of pantry and deli staples, and you’re halfway to a showstopper.

The flavor profile is delightfully complex: the creaminess of the cheese balances beautifully with the briny punch of olives and artichokes, while roasted red peppers and sun-dried tomatoes add sweetness and chew. A sprinkle of fresh herbs ties everything together. And the best part? It can be made in advance, giving you one less thing to worry about during the holiday rush.

What Kind of Cream Cheese Should I Use?

Absolutely. While classic full-fat cream cheese gives the richest texture, you can swap in whipped cream cheese for an airier feel, or even use a dairy-free version if you’re catering to different diets. Just make sure whatever you use is firm enough to hold its shape when rolled into a log. You can even blend it with a bit of goat cheese or feta for extra tang.

Ingredients for the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

This appetizer is all about big flavor with minimal effort. Each ingredient brings something special, whether it’s creaminess, tang, or crunch. You’ll want to chop everything small so the mix clings well to the cheese log and gives you a bit of everything in every bite.

• Cream Cheese
• Roasted Red Peppers
• Marinated Artichoke Hearts
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes
• Green Olives
• Kalamata Olives
• Fresh Parsley
• Fresh Basil
• Garlic Powder
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
• Black Pepper

How To Make the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Step 1: Prep the Cream Cheese

Let the cream cheese come to room temperature so it’s easier to shape. You can form it into a log using plastic wrap for clean edges. Chill it for about 15 minutes to firm it up.

Step 2: Chop the Antipasto Mix

Finely chop the roasted red peppers, both types of olives, artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes. The finer the chop, the better they’ll cling to the cheese.

Step 3: Mix in the Flavor

Combine your chopped antipasto mix in a bowl with garlic powder, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and chopped parsley and basil. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Coat the Cream Cheese

Roll the cream cheese log in the antipasto mix, gently pressing the mixture to ensure it sticks and evenly covers the outside. Wrap it again and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Unwrap, place on a platter, and serve with your favorite crackers or toasted baguette slices. Watch it disappear!

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this recipe is foolproof, a few common pitfalls can trip you up. The biggest one is not chopping the antipasto ingredients finely enough. Larger chunks won’t stick well to the cheese log and can cause it to fall apart when sliced.

Another mistake is skipping the chill time. The log needs time in the fridge to firm up so it slices cleanly and holds its shape. Also, don’t overdo the garlic or red pepper flakes. These flavors intensify as the log sits, so a little goes a long way.

Serving and Storing This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

This log serves about 8 to 10 people as an appetizer. It’s perfect for a grazing table, charcuterie board, or any holiday spread. Serve it with sturdy crackers, crostini, or even cucumber slices for a lighter touch.

If you’re making it ahead, wrap it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving so it softens slightly for easy spreading.

What to Serve With Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log?

Crackers with Seeds and Nuts

Hearty and flavorful, these crackers can hold up to the creamy topping and add extra texture.

Sliced Baguette

Toasted or fresh, baguette rounds are a classic pairing.

Crostini with Olive Oil

Add a hint of crunch and richness that complements the antipasto topping.

Cucumber Slices

A refreshing and gluten-free option that still delivers crunch.

Charcuterie Meats

Prosciutto, salami, or capicola go great alongside each slice.

Marinated Olives and Pickles

Place a small bowl next to the log for extra briny bites.

Roasted Nuts

Pistachios or almonds offer a sweet-savory contrast.

White Wine or Sparkling Rosé

Both bring out the savory tang of the antipasto flavors beautifully.

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If you love this Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log, you’ll probably enjoy these other crowd-pleasers:

• Sausage Rolls Appetizer Recipe for flaky bites packed with flavor.
• Authentic 7 Layer Mexican Dip for a colorful layered favorite.
• Babybel Bunnies for the Cutest Easter Charcuterie Recipe when you’re in the mood for fun presentation.
• Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Alfredo Tortellini to bring more hearty appetizers to the table.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add chopped pepperoncini or some crumbled feta? Maybe you went heavy on the olives or gave it a spicy kick?

I love seeing how everyone adds their own twist. Got questions? I’m here for them.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and more on Nina Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for party-ready recipes!

Conclusion

This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log isn’t just a recipe, it’s your secret weapon for effortless entertaining. With just a little chopping and mixing, you can deliver a showstopping dish that your guests will rave about. It’s colorful, flavorful, and perfect for holidays—or really any time you want to impress with minimal effort.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?