Antipasto Cream Cheese Log: 7 Festive, Creamy, Delicious.

Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is the kind of crowd-pleasing, make-ahead appetizer I reach for when the calendar fills up and the dinner hour looms. I’m a professional chef, not a mom, and Cookeroni was born from long days in the kitchen and the desire to simplify flavor-packed meals for busy women juggling careers, families, and countless commitments. This festive log blends creamy cheese with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted peppers, and fresh herbs, delivering Mediterranean warmth in every bite. It’s easy to assemble, it travels well to gatherings, and it pairs beautifully with crackers, crostini, or crisp vegetables. Read on to see how simple it is to wow guests. This guide walks you through a quick, tasty routine that fits into a busy schedule.

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what makes this Antipasto Cream Cheese Log recipe special

Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is the festive starter I reach for when the calendar fills up and the oven stays quiet.
I love how its creamy center sings with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted peppers, and a whisper of herbs.
It feels like a warm hug on a platter, easy to share, and surprisingly elegant for any gathering.

This recipe is especially kind to busy readers who crave flavor without long hours or fuss.
It comes together in minutes, travels well for potlucks, and can be made ahead with no drama.
The Mediterranean notes brighten weeknights and parties alike, giving you confidence, ease, and a smile.

Why Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is perfect for busy days

For me, this Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a lifesaver on hectic days.
Cream cheese handles a crowd, while chopped veggies stay vibrant in texture.
A quick chill sets the flavors right, letting you glide into hosting mode.

Plus, you can tailor it for picky eaters or dietary needs.
Swap in different olives, swap out peppers, or boost herbs to taste.
It’s flexible, forgiving, and still party-ready with a simple olive oil drizzle.

Why You’ll Love This Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

On busy weeks, the Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is my go-to. It delivers bold flavor with almost no heat or fuss. I love the Antipasto Cream Cheese Log, with its creamy tang and bright mix-ins. It comes together quickly; the Antipasto Cream Cheese Log chills patiently and travels beautifully. Best of all, I can tailor it for picky eaters or dietary needs.

Antipasto Cream Cheese Log benefits: ease, flavor

Ease and flavor are its main selling points.

Ingredients

Here’s what goes into my Antipasto Cream Cheese Log, with exact measurements noted at bottom. I lean on bold flavor and simple prep for busy days.

• 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened — base, creamy texture.
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil) — bright, chewy bites.
• ½ cup roasted red peppers, chopped — sweetness and color.
• ¼ cup green olives, chopped — briny kick.
• ¼ cup black olives, chopped — extra brine.
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced — sharp bite.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped — bright finish.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning — quick Mediterranean note.
• ¼ tsp garlic powder — depth without raw garlic.
• ¼ tsp black pepper — gentle aroma.
• Optional add-ins and substitutions: capers, artichokes, or a drizzle of olive oil.

What goes into Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

I build this log around a creamy base and a Mediterranean chorus of bites. Each ingredient plays a role, from tangy sun-dried tomatoes to briny olives and colorful peppers.

How to Make Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Here’s how I assemble Antipasto Cream Cheese Log quickly, even on rushed days. The method keeps flavors vivid and textures neat.

Step 1: Gather ingredients for Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

First, soften the cream cheese until easy to mix. Then prep the mix-ins and herbs.

I like to prep ahead so dinner hour feels calm.

• 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• ½ cup roasted red peppers, chopped
• ¼ cup green olives, chopped
• ¼ cup black olives, chopped
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Plastic wrap and a platter for shaping
• Optional add-ins: capers, artichokes, or olive oil drizzle

Step 2: Form Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

In a large bowl, mix all ingredients until evenly blended. Use a spatula for easy folding.

Place the mixture on a large sheet of plastic wrap.

Shape into a log or oval with clean hands.

Wrap firmly and seal. Chill in the fridge for at least two hours to meld flavors.

Step 3: Chill and finish Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Unwrap the log onto a platter.

Garnish with extra herbs and a light olive oil drizzle.

Let it sit at room temperature a few minutes before slicing.

Serve with crackers, crostini, or vegetables.

Tips for Success

• Soften cream cheese fully at room temp for easy mixing first.
• Chop fillings small and uniform for even flavor distribution in the Antipasto Log.
• Taste and adjust salt after olives; balance with lemon if desired.
• Chill the log at least 2 hours, overnight if possible.
• Use plastic wrap to shape, then tighten edges for clean slices.
• Let it rest at room temp a few minutes before slicing for easier cuts.

Equipment Needed

I keep this simple toolkit handy for Antipasto Cream Cheese Log.

• Mixing bowl, large enough for folding
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Plastic wrap or parchment for shaping
• Platter or serving plate
• Optional: food-processor or small whisk

It’s all you need today, friend.

Variations

• Variations for Antipasto Cream Cheese Log: switch olives to Kalamata or mixed olives for deeper brine and color.
• Add texture with nuts: toasted pine nuts or almonds boost crunch and elegance.
• Dairy-light version: use whipped light cream cheese and a splash of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
• Spice it up: a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a whisper of harissa adds warmth.
• Herb twists: swap in basil, dill, or chives for fresh, new aroma profiles.
• Mini versions: roll into bite-sized logs for easy passing at parties.
• Gluten-free serving: pair with gluten-free crackers or crisp veggie sticks.
• Make-ahead tip: assemble with a different base to suit guest palettes.
• Lemon brightness: a light splash of lemon juice brightens flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• I love serving Antipasto Cream Cheese Log with crisp vegetables and crackers for variety.
• Drizzle a tiny olive oil and lemon over the log for brightness.
• Pair with sparkling water or dry white wine to lighten the richness.
• Garnish platter with fresh herbs to add color, aroma, brightness, and joy.

Elevate Your Antipasto Cream Cheese Log with Creative Pairings

I love elevating the Antipasto Cream Cheese Log with colorful pairings that spark on the table.

A drizzle of olive oil and lemon brightens bites.

Pair it with crostini, veggie sticks, and bowls of marinated artichokes or peppers.

For presentation, fan slices on a round platter and garnish with fresh herbs.

Add a tiny glass of sparkling wine to celebrate.

FAQs

Can I make Antipasto Cream Cheese Log ahead of time?

Yes. You can make the Antipasto Cream Cheese Log ahead of time. It actually tastes better after a short chill, and it’s a lifesaver on busy days.

Wrap it well in plastic, then refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, unwrap and slice after a few minutes at room temperature. This keeps the texture creamy and the flavors lively.

How should I store leftovers of Antipasto Cream Cheese Log?

Store leftovers in the fridge, tightly wrapped. Use an airtight container if you have one. This helps keep the creamy texture and bright flavors.

Best within 2 to 3 days for peak flavor of the Antipasto Cream Cheese Log. Let the log come to room temp for a few minutes before serving. Freezing is not ideal for texture, so plan fresh leftovers.

Can I customize ingredients for dietary needs in Antipasto Cream Cheese Log?

Yes, you can customize to dietary needs in Antipasto Cream Cheese Log. Use a dairy-free cream cheese or whipped vegan alternative. Swap olives, peppers, or herbs to suit taste or restrictions.

Check for gluten-free crackers or veggies if gluten is a concern with the Antipasto Cream Cheese Log. Reduce salt by tasting the olives and adjusting herbs. Capers or artichokes add brightness without meat.

Is Antipasto Cream Cheese Log suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is vegetarian-friendly. It contains no meat and relies on cheese and vegetables. If you follow a vegetarian diet, it fits your holiday spread.

Pair with veggie sticks or gluten-free crackers as needed. Always read labels on items like sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil. It’s a creamy, flavorful starter you can trust.

Final Thoughts

As I set this Antipasto Cream Cheese Log on the platter, joy hides in its simple prep and the promise of easy hosting.
It invites conversation, not chaos, and feeds a crowd with creamy, zesty flavors that linger on the tongue.
It travels well for potlucks and party prep, making home entertaining feel effortless, warm, and wonderfully doable.

When I slice into it, I hear the crisp vegetables and the soft sigh of cheese mingle on the board.
I love that this recipe fits busy days yet tastes like a celebration.
You can taste the cheerful effort in every slice of the Antipasto Cream Cheese Log.

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