Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

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Every year when the holidays roll around, I find myself craving bold, savory bites that are just as pretty as they are delicious. This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log has quickly become my go-to for any holiday gathering or potluck. It’s rich, creamy, packed with briny olives, sweet peppers, fresh herbs, and just enough tang to keep you going back for another slice. The best part? It looks like a centerpiece, but takes hardly any effort to assemble.

I love how this recipe brings the whole table together. It’s that one appetizer people keep hovering over, asking what’s in it and if they can get the recipe. The contrasting flavors and textures from the antipasto elements pair beautifully with the creamy cheese base, and it’s endlessly customizable. Whether you serve it with crackers, crostini, or even alongside a charcuterie board, it never fails to impress.

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

This log is everything a holiday appetizer should be—vibrant, flavorful, and make-ahead friendly. You’ll love it because:

• It’s visually stunning and instantly festive.
• It packs in huge flavor with minimal ingredients.
• It can be prepped ahead, giving you more time with guests.
• It’s easy to slice and serve.
• It goes with everything from toasted baguette to crudités.

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What Kind of Cheese Should I Use for the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log?

Cream cheese is the foundation of this recipe, and I always recommend using full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor. It provides the perfect canvas for the bold, salty, and tangy ingredients from the antipasto mix. If you want an extra layer of flavor, you can blend in a bit of goat cheese or mascarpone for a more elevated twist. Just make sure your cheeses are softened before mixing—it makes the log easier to shape and ensures a smooth, cohesive blend.

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Options for Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable depending on your taste or what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas if you’re looking to switch things up:

• Cheese Base Alternatives: Swap part of the cream cheese with goat cheese, mascarpone, or even ricotta for a lighter version.
• Olives: Use a mix of black, green, or stuffed olives. If you’re not a fan, sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers work beautifully.
• Peppers: Peppadew peppers add a sweet kick, but you can use roasted red peppers or even chopped pickled jalapeños for heat.
• Herbs: Fresh parsley and rosemary are classics, but thyme or chives can also add freshness and aroma.
• Garnish: Capers, marinated artichokes, or even halved cherry tomatoes can be layered on top for more texture and flavor.

Don’t be afraid to experiment—this cheese log is incredibly forgiving and welcomes creativity.

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Ingredients for this Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

• Cream Cheese: This is the creamy base that holds everything together. Choose full-fat for the richest flavor and smoothest texture.
• Green and Black Olives: These add a briny, salty bite that balances the richness of the cheese. Use a mix for visual variety and flavor depth.
• Peppadew or Roasted Red Peppers: A sweet contrast to the saltiness of the olives, these bring both color and balance.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped finely, it brings freshness and flecks of green throughout the log.
• Fresh Rosemary: Used for garnish and subtle flavor, rosemary also adds that holiday aroma and elegance.
• Shredded or Diced Cheese (like mozzarella or provolone): This adds a subtle chew and enhances the antipasto feel.
• Garlic (optional): Just a tiny bit minced into the mix adds a wonderful punch if you like a garlicky note.
• Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings to tie the flavors together and enhance the savory notes.

These ingredients come together into a bold, festive mixture that slices beautifully and is perfect for any holiday table.

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Step 1: Soften the Cream Cheese

Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes so it becomes soft and easy to mix. This ensures a smooth, lump-free base for your antipasto log.

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Step 2: Chop and Prep the Mix-Ins

Roughly chop the olives, peppadew peppers (or roasted red peppers), and shredded cheese. Finely mince the parsley and, if using, the garlic. Set aside a small portion of everything for garnishing the top later.

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Step 3: Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the chopped olives, peppers, parsley, garlic (if using), shredded cheese, salt, and pepper. Use a rubber spatula or hand mixer to fold everything together until evenly incorporated.

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Step 4: Shape the Cheese Log

Transfer the cheese mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Roll it into a log shape, wrapping tightly and smoothing out the edges as you go. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) to help it firm up.

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Step 5: Decorate and Garnish

Once chilled, unwrap the log and place it on your serving board. Press the reserved olives, peppers, herbs, and cheese bits on top to create a colorful, festive topping. Tuck in sprigs of rosemary around the sides for extra flair.

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Step 6: Serve

Serve the antipasto log chilled or slightly softened, with crostini, crackers, or fresh veggies on the side. It slices cleanly and holds its shape beautifully!

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How Long to Cook the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

This recipe actually requires no cooking at all—just some chill time. Once you’ve assembled and shaped the cheese log, it needs to be refrigerated for at least 1 hour to firm up. You can also make it up to 24 hours in advance, which makes it ideal for busy holiday prep.

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Tips for Perfect Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

• Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This makes mixing much easier and gives you a smoother texture.
• Chop Evenly: Aim for uniform pieces of olives and peppers so each slice is visually appealing and consistent in flavor.
• Reserve Garnishes: Set aside a small portion of the chopped ingredients to press into the outside for a professional-looking finish.
• Wrap Tightly: When shaping your log, wrap it well in plastic wrap to keep the shape neat and to avoid drying out.
• Chill Before Serving: The log needs time to firm up so it slices well—don’t skip this step.
• Let Sit Before Serving: If too firm, let it sit at room temp for 10 minutes before slicing.

These simple tricks ensure your antipasto cheese log turns out flavorful, beautiful, and ready for the spotlight on any holiday table.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this recipe is simple, there are a few things that can trip you up:

• Overmixing the Ingredients: If you mix too vigorously, the texture can become overly soft and lose structure. Gently fold instead.
• Skipping the Chill Time: Without chilling, the log won’t hold its shape and will be difficult to slice or serve cleanly.
• Too Much Liquid: Be sure to drain olives and peppers well before chopping. Excess moisture can make the log watery.
• Using Low-Fat Cream Cheese: It won’t set as well and might taste flat. Full-fat is best for this recipe.
• Uneven Chopping: Large chunks can make the log hard to slice and awkward to serve.
• Garnishing Too Early: Wait until just before serving to add final garnishes so they stay fresh and vibrant.

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What to Serve With Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log?

Crostini

Crispy, toasted slices of baguette are perfect for spreading this creamy log.

Assorted Crackers

Choose a mix—whole wheat, buttery rounds, and seeded varieties add texture and flavor.

Grissini (Breadsticks)

Thin, crunchy breadsticks complement the richness and are great for dipping or layering.

Fresh Veggies

Cucumber rounds, bell pepper strips, and carrot sticks add crunch and lighten up the spread.

Charcuterie Board Items

Serve it alongside prosciutto, salami, or soppressata to turn your cheese log into a full board.

Warm Pita or Naan

Soft flatbreads add a comforting touch and pair nicely with the tangy flavors.

Stuffed Grape Leaves

For a Mediterranean vibe, these savory bites work surprisingly well next to the antipasto log.

Roasted Nuts

A small bowl of spiced or candied nuts balances out the creamy, salty cheese log beautifully.

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Storage Instructions

The Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead appetizer. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerate: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the log 1–2 days in advance and add the garnish just before serving for the freshest look.
• Freezing Not Recommended: Due to the dairy content and chopped veggies, freezing can alter the texture and result in a watery, grainy log after thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1 oz)
• Calories: ~120
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 3g

This appetizer is rich and satisfying, so a little goes a long way. It fits nicely into low-carb and keto-friendly menus, too.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the antipasto cream cheese log the night before?

Absolutely! In fact, it’s better if you do. Chilling overnight helps the flavors meld and the shape to firm up perfectly for slicing.

What if I don’t have peppadew peppers?

No problem. Roasted red peppers, jarred pimentos, or even chopped cherry peppers work just as well.

Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Yes, but keep in mind that flavored varieties may clash with the antipasto ingredients. Stick to plain or garlic & herb for the best results.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The cheese log itself is gluten-free, but be sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers or veggie dippers if needed.

Can I turn this into a ball instead of a log?

Definitely! Shape it however you like—log, ball, or even mini individual servings.

How do I keep the garnishes from falling off?

Gently press them into the surface after chilling. If needed, let the log soften slightly so they stick better.

Can I add meats like salami or prosciutto?

Yes! Finely diced cured meats make a delicious addition and pair naturally with the antipasto theme.

How long can it sit out during a party?

Keep it out for no more than 2 hours at room temperature. If the party runs longer, return it to the fridge between servings.

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Conclusion

The Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is everything a holiday appetizer should be: beautiful, bold in flavor, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re throwing a Christmas party, hosting New Year’s Eve, or just looking to impress your guests with minimal effort, this recipe delivers every time. It’s colorful, customizable, and rich with those classic antipasto flavors we all love. Trust me—once you serve it, it’ll become a seasonal staple in your home too.

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