Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Save this recipe on:

The Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a dazzling appetizer that instantly sets the tone for your holiday spread. With its rich cream cheese base rolled in a medley of tangy, savory, and crunchy toppings, it’s the kind of centerpiece that makes guests circle back for seconds. Its bold colors—red from roasted peppers, green from herbs, and speckles of golden antipasto bits—make it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

This recipe isn’t just about flavor, it’s about creating a moment. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or a larger gathering with friends, this antipasto cream cheese log brings that perfect balance of elegance and comfort. Pair it with crisp crackers, slices of baguette, or fresh veggies, and you’ve got a bite-sized celebration in every mouthful.

---

What Makes This Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Special?

The secret lies in how effortlessly it blends festive colors with bold flavors. By combining creamy cheese with briny olives, roasted peppers, and a mix of savory Italian-inspired add-ins, you get a spread that’s creamy, tangy, and slightly salty. Best of all, it’s a no-bake recipe, so you can prepare it ahead of time without stressing on the big day.

---

Ingredients for the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

• Cream Cheese – Provides the rich and creamy base that holds everything together.
• Roasted Red Peppers – Adds a sweet, smoky touch and holiday-red pop of color.
• Kalamata or Black Olives – Brings briny depth and a salty bite.
• Green Olives with Pimentos – For a mild tang and a festive green contrast.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Infuses savory richness and chewy texture.
• Fresh Parsley or Basil – A bright herbal note that cuts through the richness.
• Garlic Powder or Fresh Garlic – A punch of flavor that ties the antipasto theme together.
• Crushed Nuts (like pecans or walnuts) – Adds crunch and helps coat the log for visual appeal.
• Crackers or Sliced Baguette – Essential for serving and scooping up the spread.

---

How To Make the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Step 1: Soften and Prep the Cream Cheese

Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature until softened. This makes it easier to mix and shape into a smooth log.

Step 2: Chop and Combine Antipasto Ingredients

Finely dice the roasted red peppers, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs. Pat them dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture. Combine in a small bowl and season lightly with garlic powder.

Step 3: Mix Into the Cream Cheese

In a medium bowl, fold half of the antipasto mixture into the softened cream cheese. This ensures that every slice of the log has a burst of flavor.

Step 4: Shape the Cream Cheese Log

Scoop the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently roll and shape it into a log about 6–7 inches long. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to firm up.

Step 5: Coat With Toppings

Before serving, unwrap the log and roll it in the remaining antipasto mixture combined with crushed nuts. This creates a festive coating that’s crunchy and colorful.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Place the finished log on a serving platter and surround with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or crisp vegetables. Garnish with a little extra parsley for a holiday touch.

---

Serving and Storing the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

This festive log is best served chilled but slightly softened for easy spreading. Remove it from the fridge about 15 minutes before your guests arrive so it’s creamy but still holds its shape. Arrange it on a platter with plenty of dippers—this ensures everyone can enjoy a bite without waiting for the log to warm up.

To store leftovers, wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to make it ahead of time, prepare and wrap the log without the outer coating, then coat it with the toppings right before serving to keep the texture crisp.

---

What to Serve With the Antipasto Cream Cheese Log?

Crackers and Crostini

A classic choice—offer a mix of buttery crackers, seeded crisps, and toasted baguette slices.

Fresh Vegetables

Celery sticks, cucumber rounds, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper strips add a refreshing crunch.

Cured Meats

Salami, prosciutto, and pepperoni turn this appetizer into a mini antipasto platter.

Cheese Cubes

Complement the creamy log with sharp cheddar, mozzarella bites, or even parmesan wedges.

Pickles and Giardiniera

Their tangy bite pairs perfectly with the creamy, savory spread.

Fresh Fruit

Grapes, apple slices, or dried apricots bring a touch of sweetness to balance the richness.

Wine or Sparkling Drinks

Pair with prosecco, red wine, or sparkling cider to elevate your holiday table.

---

Want More Holiday Appetizer Ideas?

If you love this Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log, you’ll also enjoy these other savory favorites:

• Easy Marinated Mushrooms for a tangy and earthy bite.
• Jalapeño Popper Deviled Eggs when you want creamy with a little kick.
• Garlic Ritz Snacks for a crunchy, buttery snack everyone grabs first.
• Shrimp Butter Spread to wow seafood lovers at the table.
• Southern Deviled Eggs for a timeless holiday classic.

---

Save This Pin For Later

Keep this festive idea handy by saving it to your favorite holiday Pinterest board—you’ll be glad you did when party season rolls around again.

Tried it with your own twist? Maybe extra herbs, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or even a layer of prosciutto? Share your version in the comments below!

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. You’re sure to discover your next crowd-pleasing holiday dish there.

Print

Save this recipe on: