Name: Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 oz cream cheese, softened (2 blocks); 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 cup mixed olives (green and black), finely chopped; 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, drained and diced; 2 tbsp dried cranberries; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped; 1 tsp olive oil (optional, for mixing the toppings); Crackers, crostini, or bread for serving

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Introduction

This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a delightful and colorful appetizer perfect for any gathering. Creamy and flavorful, it combines savory olives, sweet cranberries, and fresh herbs for a crowd-pleasing starter.

The image shows a close-up of a rolled cheese log placed on a white marbled surface. The cheese is creamy white with a smooth texture, and it is filled with layers of colorful ingredients like green and black olives, small red and yellow pieces that look like peppers or sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped green herbs scattered throughout. On the top, there are whole green and black olives, sliced red peppers, and some fresh green herbs for garnish, all giving a bright and fresh look. The cheese log is thick, about three layers deep, showing the mix inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 oz cream cheese, softened (2 blocks)
1/2 cup mixed olives (green and black), finely chopped
1/4 cup roasted red peppers, drained and diced
2 tbsp dried cranberries
2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp olive oil (optional, for mixing the toppings)
Crackers, crostini, or bread for serving

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with garlic powder until smooth.
Step 2: Lay a piece of plastic wrap on the counter. Place the cream cheese mixture onto it and shape it into a log. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Meanwhile, finely chop the olives, roasted red peppers, and fresh herbs. Mix them in a small bowl with a drizzle of olive oil (optional) to combine.
Step 4: Unwrap the chilled cream cheese log and place it on a serving platter. Gently press the olive, pepper, and herb mixture evenly over the surface of the log, covering it completely.
Step 5: Sprinkle dried cranberries over the top for a pop of color and tartness. Garnish with extra parsley or rosemary if desired.
Step 6: Serve with crackers, crostini, or bread, and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a smoother log, let the cream cheese warm slightly at room temperature before mixing.
Swap the olives for sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor twist.
Add chopped nuts like pistachios or walnuts for extra crunch and texture.
Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of rosemary for a different herbal note.
If you prefer less tang, reduce the dried cranberries or substitute with finely chopped fresh figs.

Storage

Store the cream cheese log tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve again, allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly. Discard if left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

How to Serve

The image shows a thick roll of soft white cheese mixed with pieces of green and black olives and small bits of red and yellow peppers inside. On top of the roll, there are whole green and black olives and larger pieces of red and yellow pepper, sprinkled with chopped green herbs. The cheese looks smooth and creamy, with colorful bits inside and on the surface. The roll is placed on a white marbled surface with some green herbs around it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the cream cheese log ahead of time?

Yes, this appetizer can be made up to one day in advance. Refrigerate tightly wrapped and add the toppings just before serving for the freshest look.

What can I serve with the cream cheese log?

It pairs well with crackers, crostini, sliced baguette, or sturdy vegetables like celery and bell pepper strips.