If you are searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s bursting with flavor and looks absolutely stunning on any holiday table, the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe is your new go-to. This delightful cheese log combines the creamy richness of whipped cream cheese with vibrant, tangy bites of roasted red peppers, olives, artichoke hearts, and Parmesan, all wrapped in a fresh parsley coating and garnished to celebrate the season. It’s like a party in every bite, perfect for gathering friends and family together with minimal effort but maximum festive cheer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect balance of flavors for the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe depends on using simple, fresh ingredients that bring both texture and color to the dish. Each element plays a crucial role, from the creamy base to the bold toppings, creating a harmonious bite every time.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy canvas that holds all the flavors together and gives the log its luscious texture.
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, finely chopped and drained: Adding a touch of sweetness and a vibrant red color that livens up the log.
- 1/3 cup green and black olives, chopped: Bringing a salty, briny punch that contrasts beautifully with the cream cheese.
- 1/4 cup marinated artichoke hearts, chopped: Offering a tender, slightly tangy layer that adds depth to the flavor profile.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Providing sharp, nutty notes that enrich every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the log with classic Mediterranean flair.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Giving a warm, aromatic undertone without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Just enough spice to keep the flavors lively.
- 1/2 cup parsley, finely chopped (for coating): This fresh coating adds brightness and a lovely green color that makes the log truly festive.
- Fresh rosemary sprigs and cranberries (for garnish): These finishing touches add a burst of holiday spirit and a beautiful presentation.
How to Make Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by taking the softened cream cheese and placing it in a medium mixing bowl. Add the finely chopped roasted red peppers, chopped olives, chopped marinated artichoke hearts, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. This is where the flavors start to come alive, and it’s important each ingredient is well-prepared and chopped to ensure every bite has a bit of everything.
Step 2: Mix Until Uniform
Using a spatula or spoon, mix all the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese. You want a beautiful marbled effect of veggies and cheese blended perfectly, ensuring that no bites feel one-dimensional.
Step 3: Prepare to Shape
Lay down a large piece of plastic wrap on a flat surface — this helps the shaping process and makes cleanup so simple. Scoop the cream cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap in one central mound, ready to be rolled.
Step 4: Shape the Log
Using the plastic wrap edges, start rolling and shaping the cheese mixture into a compact log form. Press gently as you roll to ensure the log holds together firmly without cracks or gaps — this helps with the final look and ease of slicing later.
Step 5: Chill the Log
Wrap the cheese log tightly in the plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least two hours so it firms up perfectly, making it easier to coat and slice beautifully.
Step 6: Coat with Parsley
Spread the finely chopped parsley on a large plate. Once the cheese log is firm, unwrap it carefully and roll it all over the parsley, pressing gently to make sure the fresh green herb sticks evenly. This not only adds a gorgeous festive color but also freshens up each bite.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Transfer your parsley-coated cheese log to a lovely serving platter. Finish by artfully garnishing with fresh rosemary sprigs and bright red cranberries, which instantly bring holiday vibes and add a pop of color.
How to Serve Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe
Garnishes
Apart from the rosemary and cranberries, you could add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or finely chopped toasted nuts for extra crunch. These garnishes enhance both visual appeal and texture, making the appetizer even more inviting on the table.
Side Dishes
This cheese log pairs beautifully with an array of dippers such as crunchy crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks like cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers. Offering a variety of sides ensures every guest finds a perfect bite to enjoy alongside the log.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra special touch, place the log on a wooden cheese board surrounded by clusters of grapes, figs, or nuts. You can also arrange colorful pickled vegetables nearby to complement the antipasto flavors and bring out the festive spirit.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheese log should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or kept in an airtight container and refrigerated. It’s best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it may slightly change the texture of the cream cheese log. If you do freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic and foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
This is a cold appetizer, so reheating isn’t necessary. Simply bring it to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to enhance the creamy texture and flavor release.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind the texture might be slightly less creamy and the log may be firmer. Full-fat cream cheese gives the best richness.
What other herbs can I use instead of parsley?
Fresh basil, oregano, or thyme are great alternatives that still complement the antipasto flavors. You can even mix herbs for a more complex herbaceous coating.
How far in advance can I prepare the cheese log?
You can make the log up to 2 days ahead of time. Keep it refrigerated and add the parsley coating and garnishes just before serving for maximum freshness.
Can I add other antipasto ingredients?
Definitely! You can include finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, pepperoncini, or even diced salami for a protein boost. Just be mindful of the overall balance so the log holds together nicely.
What is the best way to slice the cheese log?
Use a sharp knife dipped briefly in hot water and wiped dry before each cut. This helps achieve clean, even slices without dragging or tearing the log.
Final Thoughts
This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe is a wonderful addition to any holiday celebration. It’s easy to make, packed with vibrant flavors, and always steals the show with its festive presentation. Give it a try at your next gathering — I promise it will become an instant favorite among your friends and family!
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Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a delightful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Cream cheese blended with savory roasted red peppers, olives, and artichoke hearts is seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic. Chilled until firm, then rolled in fresh parsley and garnished with rosemary and cranberries, it creates a beautiful centerpiece for any party spread. Serve with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables for a flavorful start to your festive meal.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, finely chopped and drained
- 1/3 cup green and black olives, chopped
- 1/4 cup marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Coating and Garnish
- 1/2 cup parsley, finely chopped (for coating)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
- Cranberries (for garnish)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, roasted red peppers, olives, artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. This blends all the flavors evenly.
- Mix Thoroughly: Mix the ingredients until they are evenly distributed, ensuring a consistent texture and flavor throughout the mixture.
- Prepare Plastic Wrap: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap flat on your countertop to prepare for shaping the cheese mixture.
- Shape the Log: Scoop the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap and form it into a compact, smooth log shape using your hands.
- Chill the Log: Wrap the log tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up for easier slicing and serving.
- Prepare Parsley Coating: Spread chopped parsley evenly on a large plate, ready for coating the cheese log.
- Coat the Cheese Log: Unwrap the chilled cheese log and gently roll it in the chopped parsley, pressing lightly to ensure it adheres evenly around the log.
- Transfer to Platter: Place the coated cheese log onto a serving platter, creating an inviting centerpiece.
- Garnish: Decorate the log with fresh rosemary sprigs and cranberries, adding festive color and aroma.
- Serve: Offer with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks as an elegant and tasty holiday appetizer.
Notes
- For best flavor, allow the cream cheese to soften completely before mixing.
- The log can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated overnight to save time on the day of serving.
- Use high-quality marinated artichoke hearts and roasted peppers for maximum taste.
- To make it easier to slice, chill the log firmly before serving.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free; confirm gluten-free status of crackers if serving alongside.
