Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log – Best Party Appetizer

Looking for the perfect centerpiece for your holiday appetizer table? This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log delivers bold flavors, eye-catching color, and effortless elegance in every bite. With a blend of tangy roasted red peppers, briny olives, savory artichoke hearts, and creamy cheese, this crowd-pleasing log is as delicious as it is festive. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a cozy evening with family, this make-ahead appetizer ensures you’ll impress without stress.

A Flavor-Packed and Effortless Party Favorite

The Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log checks all the boxes for a winning holiday recipe — it’s make-ahead friendly, packed with Italian-inspired flavors, and visually stunning thanks to its colorful herb coating. This antipasto-style cheese log brings together the best elements of a charcuterie board in one creamy, spreadable appetizer. It’s perfect for Christmas, New Year’s, or any winter celebration when you want something that looks special but doesn’t require last-minute fuss.

This log also fits multiple dietary needs: it’s naturally gluten-free (when served with gluten-free crackers or veggies), vegetarian, and rich in protein and healthy fats — making it a satisfying choice for all types of eaters.

What You’ll Need to Make This Cream Cheese Log

• Cream Cheese: Acts as the rich and creamy base that binds all the ingredients together.
• Roasted Red Peppers: Add a sweet, smoky flavor and a festive pop of red.
• Green and Black Olives: Offer a salty, briny contrast that mimics classic antipasto boards.
• Marinated Artichoke Hearts: Provide tangy depth and tender texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Infuses the log with nutty, salty umami.
• Italian Seasoning: Blends dried herbs like oregano and basil to complement the Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Garlic Powder: Adds subtle garlicky warmth without overpowering the dish.
• Black Pepper: Enhances the savory notes with a gentle bite.
• Parsley: Fresh and vibrant, it forms the herbaceous, green outer coating that gives the log its festive look.
• Rosemary Sprigs & Cranberries: Optional, but they make a stunning garnish and elevate the visual appeal.

Ingredient Swaps and Substitutions

If you’re missing an ingredient or want to cater to dietary preferences, here are some easy swaps that keep the festive spirit and flavor of your antipasto cream cheese log intact:

• Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based cream cheese and dairy-free Parmesan to create a vegan-friendly version.
• Different Olives: Swap in Kalamata or Castelvetrano olives for unique flavor notes.
• Add Protein: Stir in diced salami or prosciutto for a more traditional antipasto twist.
• Fresh Herbs: Substitute parsley with fresh basil or dill if you prefer a different aromatic finish.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a gentle kick for spice lovers.

How to Make a Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

1. Mix the Filling
   In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, roasted red peppers, chopped olives, marinated artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Use a spatula to mix everything until well blended and smooth.
2. Shape the Log
   Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on your work surface. Spoon the cheese mixture into the center, shaping it roughly into a log. Roll it up tightly in the plastic wrap, smoothing out the sides and ends as you go. Refrigerate the wrapped log for at least 2 hours, or until it firms up and holds its shape.
3. Coat in Parsley
   Once the cheese log is chilled and set, scatter the chopped fresh parsley onto a large plate. Unwrap the cheese log and gently roll it in the parsley until it’s evenly coated on all sides. Press lightly to make sure the parsley adheres well.
4. Garnish and Serve
   Place the log on a serving platter. Garnish with rosemary sprigs and fresh cranberries for a beautiful holiday presentation. Serve the antipasto cream cheese log with your favorite crackers, baguette slices, or crunchy veggie sticks.

Make-Ahead Tips and Serving Tricks

• Prep in Advance: Make the cheese log up to 3 days ahead. Store tightly wrapped in the fridge, then coat with parsley and garnish just before serving.
• Chill for Clean Slices: The longer it chills, the firmer and easier to slice it becomes. Chill overnight for best results.
• Don’t Skip Draining: Be sure to drain the peppers, olives, and artichokes thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that could make the log soggy.
• Use a Serrated Knife: When serving with slices of baguette, use a sharp or serrated knife to get clean, pretty cuts.
• Boost Flavor: A drizzle of balsamic glaze on top or side can add a delicious, sweet-acidic finish.

Perfect Pairings & Creative Variations

The Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some ideas to round out your appetizer table:

• Crackers: Use a mix of seedy crackers, flatbreads, or crostini for varied textures.
• Vegetable Sticks: Cucumber, celery, and bell pepper strips balance the richness of the cheese.
• Charcuterie Companions: Serve alongside sliced meats, grapes, or fig jam for a full grazing board experience.
• Mini Cheese Balls: Divide the mixture into bite-sized portions and coat each in chopped herbs or crushed nuts for an elegant twist.
• Spicy Version: Mix in finely diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a bold, festive heat.
• Leftover Use: Spread any remaining log on bagels, sandwiches, or use as a dip for roasted veggies.

Why This Recipe Belongs at Your Holiday Table

There’s something undeniably festive about this antipasto cream cheese log. From the vibrant red and green colors to the savory Mediterranean flavor profile, it brings both style and substance to your celebration. It’s ideal for last-minute parties, complements a range of other dishes, and appeals to guests of all ages.

Best of all, it’s a no-cook appetizer that lets you focus on enjoying the season rather than being stuck in the kitchen. With its creamy texture, bold flavors, and eye-catching finish, the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is guaranteed to be the talk of the table.

Conclusion

The Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is more than just an appetizer — it’s a show-stopping centerpiece that brings together rich, savory flavors and cheerful presentation. Whether you’re hosting a grand holiday party or enjoying a quiet night with loved ones, this easy-to-make cheese log adds elegance and indulgence without the stress. Its versatility, bold flavor profile, and festive appearance make it a go-to recipe for the season. Prepare it ahead of time, serve it with a variety of dippers, and watch it disappear faster than you can say “Happy Holidays.”

This antipasto cream cheese log truly embodies the magic of holiday entertaining — simple, beautiful, and irresistibly delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Relevant Recipes

• Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe: A delightful alternative to the traditional holiday cheese log, this version adds tart cranberries and crunchy pecans for a festive twist. The creamy base and vibrant topping make it ideal for entertaining and pairs beautifully with holiday crackers and fruit.
• Dirty Martini Dip Recipe – Party Appetizer: Inspired by the briny flavors of olives and cheese, this dip brings bold flavor with minimal effort. Perfectly paired with crackers or crostini, it mirrors the savory elements of an antipasto-style appetizer and works wonderfully on holiday tables.
• Marinated Cheese Recipe – Easy Appetizer: Layered with herbs, spices, and tangy marinades, this cheese appetizer offers an elevated Mediterranean feel. It’s an easy, no-cook option that echoes the flavors and flair of a festive antipasto cheese log.

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