Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

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The first time I made this Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log, I honestly didn’t expect it to be such a showstopper. I figured it would be a nice, colorful addition to my holiday spread—something to nibble on while the main courses were being prepped. But the moment it hit the table, it drew a crowd. The combination of creamy cheese, briny olives, sweet peppers, and fresh herbs looked so striking that it felt like the holidays had been wrapped up in one delicious bite.

I love how this appetizer feels indulgent yet effortless. There’s no oven involved, no fussing over temperatures or complicated techniques—just fresh, vibrant flavors combined in a way that makes every bite memorable. It’s also a great “make ahead” recipe, which means I can spend more time with my guests and less time fussing in the kitchen. And honestly, isn’t that the whole point of holiday gatherings?

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

This recipe delivers on both style and flavor. The rich cream cheese base carries the tang of marinated vegetables and olives, while fresh herbs add a burst of brightness. It’s a versatile centerpiece—you can serve it with crackers, crusty bread, or even sliced cucumbers for a lighter option. And since it holds its shape well, it doubles as both a spread and a sliceable appetizer. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the ingredients to match your own taste or what’s already in your pantry.

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

The beauty of this dish is that it welcomes variety. I like to use a mix of green, black, and Kalamata olives for a balance of colors and flavors. The green olives bring a mild, slightly salty bite; black olives add a softer, earthier note; and Kalamata olives offer a bold, tangy punch. If you can find marinated olives with herbs or citrus, they can add an extra layer of complexity without any extra work. Just remember to pit them (or buy them already pitted) to keep your guests from any unwelcome surprises.

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Options for Substitutions

• Cheese Base: If cream cheese isn’t your favorite, goat cheese will bring a tangier flavor, while mascarpone offers a milder, silkier alternative.
• Vegetables: Roasted red peppers are a classic, but you can also try sun-dried tomatoes, marinated artichoke hearts, or even pickled jalapeños for heat.
• Herbs: Rosemary and parsley are festive and aromatic, but thyme, oregano, or fresh dill can work beautifully too.
• Toppings: For extra flair, you could scatter pomegranate seeds for a juicy pop or toasted pine nuts for a buttery crunch.
• Vegan Option: Use a plant-based cream cheese alternative—most blend seamlessly with the other ingredients.

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Ingredients for this Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

• Cream Cheese – The creamy, smooth base that holds all the ingredients together while adding a rich mouthfeel.
• Mixed Olives – Briny, savory bites that bring both color and depth of flavor to every slice.
• Roasted Red Peppers – Sweet and smoky notes that balance the saltiness of the olives.
• Fresh Herbs (Rosemary, Parsley, or a mix) – A bright, aromatic lift that keeps the log tasting fresh and festive.
• Marinated Artichoke Hearts – A subtle tang and tender texture that contrast the creamy cheese.
• Garlic – A punch of savory aroma that ties all the Mediterranean flavors together.
• Cheddar or Provolone Cubes – Adds a firmer texture and extra cheesiness for variety in every bite.
• Cranberries or Pomegranate Seeds (Optional) – For a jewel-like garnish and a sweet-tart pop of flavor.

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Step 1

Soften the cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes, making it easier to mix and shape.

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Step 2

Chop the mixed olives, roasted red peppers, marinated artichokes, fresh herbs, and cheese cubes into small, even pieces so they distribute evenly throughout the log.

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Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the chopped ingredients, reserving some olives, herbs, and peppers for garnishing the outside. Mix gently but thoroughly to avoid crushing the mix-ins.

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Step 4

Scoop the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Shape it into a log by rolling and pressing gently, then wrap tightly to hold the form. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) so it firms up.

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Step 5

Before serving, unwrap the log and press the reserved olives, peppers, and herbs into the surface for a vibrant, decorative finish.

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How Long to Cook the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

This recipe is blissfully no-cook, so there’s nothing to bake or simmer. The only “time” involved is chilling—it needs at least 2 hours in the refrigerator to firm up, though overnight is even better for the flavors to fully meld together.

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Tips for Perfect Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

• Dry Your Ingredients: Pat the olives, peppers, and artichokes dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from making the log watery.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir gently to keep the mix-ins intact for a prettier presentation and better texture.
• Shape While Cold: If the mixture gets too soft to work with, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes before shaping.
• Garnish Last Minute: Add the decorative toppings right before serving for the freshest look.
• Serve at Cool Room Temperature: Let it sit out for about 10 minutes before slicing or spreading—it will be easier to cut and more flavorful.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the Chill Time: Without enough refrigeration, the log won’t hold its shape when sliced.
• Using Watery Ingredients: Excess liquid from olives or peppers can cause the log to become soggy.
• Forgetting to Taste Before Shaping: Adjusting seasoning is much easier before you wrap and chill the mixture.
• Overloading with Mix-Ins: Too many chunky ingredients can make it crumble instead of slice smoothly.
• Serving Straight from the Fridge: Ice-cold cream cheese can be too firm and mute the flavors.

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What to Serve With Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log?

1. Crisp Crackers

The perfect crunchy vehicle for spreading or topping slices of the log.

2. Sliced Baguette

Chewy and rustic bread pairs beautifully with the creamy, briny flavors.

3. Breadsticks

Adds an elegant touch and a satisfying snap.

4. Fresh Cucumber Rounds

A refreshing, low-carb option that keeps things light.

5. Cherry Tomatoes

Juicy and sweet, they contrast nicely with the rich cream cheese.

6. Pita Chips

Hearty enough to hold a generous scoop without breaking.

7. Prosciutto Slices

Wrap around a bit of the log for a savory, elegant bite.

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Storage Instructions

Wrap the cream cheese log tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Stored in the refrigerator, it will last for up to 5 days. If you’ve already garnished the outside, be mindful that fresh herbs and toppings may lose their vibrancy over time—consider adding final garnishes just before serving leftovers. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of cream cheese can become grainy once thawed.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 12 servings, using cream cheese, mixed olives, roasted red peppers, artichokes, and cheddar cheese):

• Calories: ~180 kcal
• Protein: 5 g
• Carbohydrates: 3 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Sodium: 280 mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it tightly wrapped in the fridge until serving.

2. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

You can, but the texture may be slightly less creamy, and it might not hold its shape as firmly.

3. How do I make this recipe vegan?

Swap the cream cheese for a plant-based alternative and choose vegan cheese cubes or omit them entirely.

4. Can I add nuts for crunch?

Absolutely. Chopped toasted almonds, pistachios, or pine nuts can add both texture and flavor.

5. What if I don’t have artichokes?

You can replace them with chopped sun-dried tomatoes, capers, or extra roasted peppers.

6. Can I make this into a round cheese ball instead of a log?

Yes, the mixture can be shaped into any form you like—log, ball, or even small individual portions.

7. How long can it sit out during a party?

No more than 2 hours to ensure food safety, especially if your room is warm.

8. Can I serve it warm?

It’s best served chilled or at cool room temperature—warming it may cause the cheese to soften too much and lose shape.

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Conclusion

The Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is more than just a pretty holiday appetizer—it’s a vibrant, flavorful centerpiece that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. With its colorful mix of olives, peppers, herbs, and creamy cheese, it brings Mediterranean-inspired joy to any gathering. Whether you serve it with crackers, bread, or fresh veggies, it’s guaranteed to get guests talking and coming back for seconds. And since it’s so simple to prepare ahead, you’ll have more time to enjoy the celebration yourself.

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