While assembling holiday menus can sometimes feel overwhelming, let me share a little victory I’ve discovered this season—the Festive Holiday Cream Cheese Antipasto Log. Bursting with creamy goodness, bright roasted red peppers, and savory olives, this stunning appetizer is not just easy to whip up but also vegetarian-friendly! You can prepare it in advance, making it a stress-free addition to your holiday gatherings. Your guests will appreciate the gorgeous presentation and delicious flavors that elevate any celebration. Curious about how to create this delightful treat that’s sure to impress? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is This Antipasto Log a Must-Make?

Simplicity Made Scrumptious: The process is incredibly easy, making it perfect for both novice and skilled cooks.

Vibrant Colors: Bright roasted red peppers and fresh herbs create an eye-catching centerpiece on your holiday table.

Versatile Flavors: Feel free to customize with different herbs, olives, or even cheeses like feta for a unique twist!

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the log a day in advance to save time on the big day, letting flavors mingle beautifully.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a festive gathering or a casual get-together, this dish never fails to impress guests, just like my Decadent Boston Cream for dessert!

Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Ingredients

For the Log

Cream Cheese – 8 oz, softened; provides a rich, creamy base, use full-fat for the best texture.
Roasted Red Peppers – 1/2 cup, chopped; adds sweetness and vibrant color, oil-packed works best.
Black Olives – 1/3 cup, pitted and chopped; brings a tangy, salty punch; consider green olives for a different flavor profile.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes – 1/3 cup, chopped (preferably oil-packed); enhances umami richness; dried tomatoes are a non-oily alternative.
Fresh Herbs – 1/4 cup, finely chopped (parsley, basil, or chives); brightens the dish with fresh flavors, feel free to substitute based on availability.
Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon; adds a depth of flavor; fresh minced garlic can also be used for a more robust taste.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – 1/2 teaspoon; adds a subtle heat; adjust quantity to fit your desired spice level.
Salt and Black Pepper – to taste; essential seasonings to elevate overall flavor, adjust according to your preference.

For the Coating

Toasted Nuts – 1/2 cup, finely chopped (walnuts or pecans); adds a delightful crunch; almonds and pistachios are great alternatives.

This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious way to bring everyone together this holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by collecting all your ingredients for the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log. Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature, allowing it to mix easily with the other ingredients. Prepare a clean workspace and have a mixing bowl, spatula, and plastic wrap ready for a smooth preparation process.

Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with ½ cup of chopped roasted red peppers, ⅓ cup of pitted and chopped black olives, and ⅓ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Add ¼ cup of finely chopped fresh herbs along with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Stir until the mixture is well combined, smooth, and creamy in texture.

Step 3: Shape the Log
Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on a clean surface and spoon the cream cheese mixture into the center. Carefully utilize the plastic wrap to form the mixture into a log shape. Tightly roll the plastic wrap around the log, twisting the ends to seal and secure it. This step ensures the log holds its shape and facilitates easy handling later.

Step 4: Chill the Log
Refrigerate the wrapped log for at least one hour, or even overnight for maximum flavor infusion. Chilling allows the ingredients to meld beautifully and the log to firm up, making slicing easier for serving. Check that it’s firm to the touch for the best results when you’re ready to serve.

Step 5: Coat with Toasted Nuts
Once chilled, gently unwrap the log from the plastic wrap. Spread ½ cup of finely chopped toasted nuts, like walnuts or pecans, on a plate. Roll the log in the nuts until the outside is evenly coated, adding a delightful crunch and beautiful texture to your Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log.

Step 6: Serve with Dippers
Transfer the nut-coated log onto a serving platter. It’s best enjoyed with an assortment of dippers like crisp crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks. This vibrant, creamy appetizer brings a festive touch to any gathering, making it a delightful treat for you and your guests.

What to Serve with Festive Holiday Cream Cheese Antipasto Log

Transform your appetizer into a delightful holiday feast with the perfect pairings that will wow your guests and elevate your dining experience.

Crisp Crackers: A variety of savory, crunchy crackers are perfect for scooping that creamy goodness and adding a satisfying crunch.
Toasted Baguette Slices: The warm, toasted bread enhances the festive log’s flavors, adding a delightful contrast of texture in every bite.
Fresh Veggie Sticks: Crisp carrots, celery, and bell pepper strips offer a refreshing balance to the richness of the log, inviting more vibrant colors to your spread.
Olive Tapenade: The briny, deep flavors of an olive tapenade amplify the Mediterranean notes in the antipasto log, creating an irresistible flavor pairing.
Mixed Nuts: A bowl of assorted nuts alongside the log provides a crunchy, savory element that complements the creaminess effortlessly.
Sweet and Savory Fruit Chutney: Adding a fruit chutney, like fig or cranberry, introduces a sweet contrast that beautifully enhances the savory nature of this festive holiday antipasto cream cheese log.
Sparkling Wine: Delight your guests with a glass of bubbly, which pairs splendidly, cutting through the creaminess and refreshing the palate between bites.
Dark Chocolate Squares: For a surprising twist, serve with a small dish of dark chocolate; the bittersweet notes offer a luxurious finish that will leave your guests talking about your stunning appetizer!

Variations & Substitutions for Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Feel free to get creative and customize your antipasto log to suit your taste buds or dietary needs!

Olive Alternatives: Swap black olives for green or kalamata olives for a different flavor profile, adding a medley of colors and tastes.
Add Veggies: Incorporate diced artichoke hearts, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra textures and a burst of freshness that complements the creamy filling.
Herb Swaps: Experiment with various fresh herbs like dill or tarragon instead of parsley or basil to create a unique herbaceous twist that tantalizes the palate.
Cheesy Infusion: Stir in crumbled feta or creamy goat cheese for an elevated flavor and tanginess, enhancing the overall richness of your antipasto log.
Nutty Variations: Try coating the log with toasted almonds or pistachios to introduce a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness, perfect for balancing the savory elements.
Spicy Kick: If you love heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture for an extra zing.
Dairy-Free Option: For a vegan twist, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative like cashew cheese, ensuring it remains creamy and delicious while being dairy-free.

Pair your Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log with a variety of dippers, just like the deliciousness found in my Savory Ham Cheese recipe. Or for something sweet, consider them as a delightful contrast with my Peach Cream Cheese. Whatever your choice, enjoy this flexible recipe’s endless possibilities!

Storage Tips for Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Fridge: Store the antipasto log tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Enjoy the best flavor within the first few days to maintain its delicious freshness.
Freezer: You can freeze the log for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: This appetizer is served cold, so no reheating is necessary. Simply slice it after chilling and pair it with your favorite dippers for a delightful treat.
Airtight Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to keep the antipasto log fresh, ensuring it retains its creamy texture and flavors.

Make Ahead Options

These Festive Holiday Cream Cheese Antipasto Logs are a perfect candidate for meal prep, allowing you to save valuable time on busy days! You can prepare the entire log up to 24 hours in advance by following the shaping and chilling steps. Simply mix the ingredients, form the log, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. This method helps the flavors meld beautifully while maintaining the log’s quality. When you’re ready to serve, unroll it, coat it with toasted nuts, and garnish as desired. Your delicious antipasto log will be just as fresh and inviting, ensuring a stress-free entertaining experience!

Expert Tips for Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Soften Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing; this guarantees a smooth and creamy texture in your antipasto log.
Chill Time Matters: Allow the log to chill for at least an hour; this is key to achieving the right firmness for slicing and helps flavors meld beautifully.
Taste Test: Before shaping the log, taste the filling and adjust seasonings if needed; a little extra salt or spice can elevate your Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log.
Nut Coating Variations: Experiment with different types of nuts for the coating; walnuts or pecans add crunch, while almonds or pistachios lend unique flavors.
Customize Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients based on availability; using kalamata olives or feta cheese can give your log an exciting twist.

Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my cream cheese is ripe enough?
Absolutely! Using softened cream cheese is vital for the best texture. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature, which typically takes about 30 minutes after removing it from the fridge. If you see it glistening and can press a finger into it without much resistance, you’re all set for mixing!

What is the best way to store the leftover antipasto log?
To maintain its delightful freshness, wrap the antipasto log tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. I often suggest enjoying it within the first few days for the best flavor; simply slice and serve with crackers or veggies!

Can I freeze the antipasto log for later use?
Certainly! You can freeze the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and enjoy!

What should I do if my antipasto log is too soft to shape?
No worries! If your mixture seems too soft, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to firm it up before shaping. Make sure to mix until smooth and well combined, but not overly so; you want some texture from the additions to create that lovely rustic log!

Are there dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! This recipe is vegetarian, making it a wonderful option for many guests. However, if you’re concerned about allergies, keep in mind that it includes dairy and nuts. If you have guests with certain allergies, consider using nut-free alternatives, such as seeds for coating or swapping in different filler ingredients to suit all dietary needs.

What kind of variations can I try for this antipasto log?
The more the merrier! Feel free to get creative by swapping black olives for green or kalamata olives for a different flavor. You can also add artichoke hearts, bell peppers, or even a bit of goat cheese for extra creaminess. Making personal adjustments based on your taste and what’s available can elevate your log to a new level!