Name: Festive Antipasto Cream Cheese Log
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 16 oz cream cheese (2 blocks), softened; 2 tablespoons fresh mixed herbs (parsley, chives, dill), finely chopped; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste); Toppings:; 1/2 cup mixed olives, finely chopped; 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, finely chopped; 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and finely chopped; 2 tablespoons capers, chopped (optional); 1/4 cup marinated artichoke hearts, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons dried cranberries

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

This antipasto cream cheese log is one of my favorite appetizers to prepare when I want something that looks impressive but stays simple and stress-free. I love how the creamy base pairs with bold, tangy, and slightly sweet toppings, creating a balanced and satisfying bite. It’s a dish I enjoy making because it feels elegant while requiring very little effort. Festive Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick to assemble and easy to prepare ahead of time. The flavors are layered and vibrant, combining creamy cheese with briny vegetables and a touch of sweetness. I also appreciate how flexible it is, allowing me to adjust the toppings to suit different tastes while still keeping the presentation beautiful.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cream cheese, 16 oz (2 blocks), softened
Fresh mixed herbs (parsley, chives, dill), 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
Garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon
Salt, 1/4 teaspoon or to taste
Black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon or to taste

For the toppings:
Mixed olives, 1/2 cup, finely chopped
Roasted red peppers, 1/4 cup, finely chopped
Sun-dried tomatoes, 1/4 cup, drained and finely chopped
Capers, 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional)
Marinated artichoke hearts, 1/4 cup, finely chopped
Fresh parsley, 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
Dried cranberries, 2 tablespoons

Directions

I start by placing the softened cream cheese into a bowl. I add the chopped herbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, then mix everything until smooth and evenly combined.

Next, I lay a large piece of plastic wrap on the counter and place the cream cheese mixture in the center. Using the plastic wrap, I shape it into a compact log about 6 to 7 inches long and wrap it tightly. I refrigerate the log until it becomes firm.

While the log chills, I finely chop all the topping ingredients and mix them together in a bowl so the flavors are evenly distributed. Once the cream cheese log is firm, I unwrap it and gently roll it in the topping mixture, pressing lightly so everything sticks. I rewrap the log and chill it again briefly to help the toppings set. Just before serving, I garnish with chopped parsley and dried cranberries.

Servings And Timing

I usually serve this appetizer to 8 to 10 people as part of a shared spread.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: about 2 hours and 20 minutes

Variations

I like swapping the dried cranberries with dried cherries or raisins when I want a slightly different sweetness. For a lighter version, I sometimes blend half cream cheese with plain Greek yogurt for a subtle tang. I also enjoy adding chopped nuts like pistachios or walnuts for extra crunch and texture.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cream cheese log stays fresh for up to 3 to 4 days. Since this is a chilled appetizer, I don’t reheat it and simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving if needed.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I often prepare the cream cheese log a day in advance and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator. I prefer adding the toppings a few hours before serving so they stay fresh and colorful.

What can I serve with this cream cheese log?

I like serving it with crackers, toasted bread slices, crostini, or fresh vegetables such as cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers.

How do I keep the log from losing its shape?

I make sure the cream cheese is fully chilled before rolling it in the toppings. Keeping it cold until serving helps it hold its shape nicely.

Can I customize the toppings?

I enjoy customizing the toppings based on preference. I sometimes add extra herbs, roasted vegetables, or nuts to change the flavor and texture.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

I don’t recommend freezing it because the texture of the cream cheese changes after thawing. I find it tastes best when enjoyed fresh from the refrigerator.

Conclusion

This antipasto cream cheese log is a recipe I return to again and again because it’s reliable, flavorful, and always well received. I enjoy how it brings color, variety, and a touch of elegance to the table while staying easy to prepare. Every time I serve it, it feels like a simple yet impressive addition to any gathering.