This fun Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a perfect appetizer! It’s packed with tangy olives, crunchy peppers, and creamy cheese, all wrapped up in a delicious log shape.
It’s a hit at every gathering! Who can resist that colorful spread? I love to serve it with some crackers – it makes for a simple yet fancy snack. Everyone loves it, and so will you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of your log. If you want a lighter version, try low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt. It will change the texture slightly, but it can still be delicious!
Marinated Artichokes: Fresh artichokes can be used instead, but they require more prep. Canned or jarred are much easier and add great flavor. You can also substitute with any pickled veggies you love.
Olives: I used pimento-stuffed green olives and black olives for color and taste. If you prefer, any mix of olives works. Try kalamata or Castelvetrano olives for a unique twist.
Pimento-Stuffed Green Olives and Black Olives: You can swap these for other savory ingredients, like capers or even diced pickles. They’ll still provide that tangy flavor you want!
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add crunch, but feel free to use slivered almonds or sunflower seeds if you have nut allergies or prefer a different texture.
How Do I Shape the Log Properly?
Shaping your cream cheese log is key to presentation! Here’s how to get it right:
- Use plastic wrap to help with shaping—this keeps it neat and makes it easy to handle.
- Spoon and gather the mixture towards the center, pressing it down to create a firm log shape.
- Once wrapped, roll it gently to smooth out the sides and make it even.
- If you’re aiming for a perfect shape, adjust the ends by pinching them in while rolling.
Chilling for a few hours helps it firm up, making slicing easier and cleaner.
Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chopped marinated artichoke hearts, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped pimento-stuffed green olives
- 1/2 cup chopped black olives (Kalamata or ripe olives)
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted red bell peppers
- 1/4 cup chopped pepperoncini peppers
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (plus extra for garnish)
Seasoning:
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- Cherry tomatoes for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Antipasto Cream Cheese Log will take you about 15 minutes to prepare. After that, you need to chill it in the fridge for 2 hours or overnight. So total time is around 2 hours and 15 minutes, including chilling time. Perfect for making in advance for your get-togethers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Cream Cheese:
Start by taking your softened cream cheese and placing it into a large bowl. Add in the dried oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a spatula or a mixer to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
2. Add the Antipasto Ingredients:
Next, it’s time to add the fun stuff! Toss in the chopped marinated artichokes, pimento-stuffed green olives, black olives, roasted red bell peppers, pepperoncini, parsley, and optional sun-dried tomatoes. Don’t forget the chopped walnuts or pecans! Gently stir everything together until well combined, taking care not to mash the ingredients too much.
3. Shape the Log:
Now, grab a large piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper and lay it flat on your countertop. Spoon the cream cheese mixture onto the center and shape it into a log about 8-10 inches long and 3-4 inches wide. It doesn’t have to be perfect—just make it look like a log!
4. Wrap and Refrigerate:
Tightly wrap the log with the plastic wrap, twisting the ends to secure it. Place the log in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can wait! This helps the flavors blend beautifully.
5. Garnish and Serve:
When you’re ready to serve, unwrap the cream cheese log and place it on a platter or a wooden board. Get creative with garnishing: add some extra olives, walnuts, cherry tomatoes, and a few sprigs of fresh rosemary on top for a lovely presentation.
6. Slice and Enjoy!
Finally, slice the log into 1/2-inch thick pieces and serve with your favorite crackers, breadsticks, or sliced baguette. Enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness!
This appetizer is creamy, colorful, and bursting with savory antipasto flavors—perfect for parties or holiday gatherings!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can definitely use low-fat cream cheese! It will give you a lighter version, but the texture may be slightly different. Just make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For best results, keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its shape and freshness.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This cream cheese log is perfect for making a day in advance. The flavors meld beautifully when it sits overnight in the fridge.
What Can I Use Instead of Olives?
If you’re not a fan of olives, you can substitute them with diced pickles or capers for a similar tangy flavor. You could also omit them altogether and add more sun-dried tomatoes or peppers instead!
