If you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer that’s as delicious as it is easy to assemble, you’ll adore this Antipasto Cream Cheese Log with Olives, Red Peppers, Cranberries, and Herbs Recipe. It’s perfect for holidays, casual get-togethers, or any time you want to bring something flavorful and eye-catching to the table. The creamy tanginess combined with briny olives, sweet roasted peppers, tart cranberries, and fresh herbs never fails to impress.
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Why You’ll Love This
This Antipasto Cream Cheese Log comes together quickly but feels fancy, making it a foolproof crowd-pleaser. The contrasting textures and layered flavors keep everyone coming back for more, whether you’re hosting a cozy night in or a festive celebration.
- Reliable Texture, Great Flavor: Cream cheese provides a smooth and creamy base that mixes beautifully with olives, peppers, and herbs for a balanced bite every time.
- Crisp–Golden Finish: While it’s delicious fresh, chilling the log helps it firm up for neat slices and lets the flavors marry overnight like a tiny party in your fridge.
- Pantry-Friendly Ingredients: With staples like olives, dried cranberries, and fresh herbs, you keep it simple but impressively flavorful without hunting for specialty items.
- Weeknight Easy, Weekend Worthy: Prep the mixture in minutes, then chill and serve whenever you want, perfect for spontaneous entertaining or planned gatherings.
Ingredient Snapshot
For the best results in this Antipasto Cream Cheese Log with Olives, Red Peppers, Cranberries, and Herbs Recipe, I like to pick fresh, flavorful ingredients that bring out each component’s unique character. Focus on quality olives and fresh herbs to elevate the overall taste.
- Cream Cheese: Use full-fat, softened cream cheese for creamy texture and richness.
- Mixed Olives: Choose a mix of green and black olives, finely chopped and pitted, to get that perfect briny pop.
- Roasted Red Peppers: Opt for jarred roasted peppers drained well to keep the log from becoming soggy.
- Dried Cranberries: These add a subtle sweetness and chewiness to balance savory notes.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley and rosemary bring freshness and an aromatic touch—chop them finely for even distribution.
Quick Note: Exact measurements are in the printable recipe card at the bottom.
How to Make Antipasto Cream Cheese Log with Olives, Red Peppers, Cranberries, and Herbs Recipe
Step 1 — Set Up & Season
Start by making sure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature—that’s key for a smooth blend without lumps. I usually leave it out on the counter for about 30 minutes before mixing. Transfer 16 ounces into a medium bowl, then add the finely chopped olives and roasted red peppers. Folding these in gently helps keep the mixture light and evenly textured. Toss in the dried cranberries and sprinkle the fresh parsley and rosemary over the top. The garlic powder comes last, adding subtle warmth without overpowering the fresh ingredients. For a touch of silkiness, I sometimes drizzle in a teaspoon of olive oil, which helps bind everything together beautifully.
Step 2 — Sear, Toast, or Mix
Now, all the magic is mixing. Using a sturdy spatula or your clean hands, fold the ingredients carefully so that the olives, peppers, cranberries, and herbs are distributed evenly throughout. You want to avoid overmixing, which can make the log dense. Once everything is combined into a lovely, spreadable consistency, lay out a large piece of plastic wrap. Spoon the mixture onto the wrap and shape it into a tight log. Wrapping it snugly helps the log maintain its shape and keeps it ready for chilling. This step is simple but sets the stage for the log’s elegant final look.
Step 3 — Finish for Best Texture
Chill the wrapped log in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, though overnight resting is even better if you have the time. This waiting period allows the flavors to marry and gives the log a nice firmness that makes slicing neat and satisfying. Once cooled, unwrap the log and roll it in a handful of freshly chopped parsley for a bright, green coating that adds brightness and a touch of texture. Garnish the serving platter with extra rosemary sprigs to hint at those herby notes inside. The result is a beautiful, fragrant appetizer that’s easy to slice and share.
Smart Little Tips
Mastering this Antipasto Cream Cheese Log with Olives, Red Peppers, Cranberries, and Herbs Recipe means paying attention to ingredient temperatures and mixing techniques for the creamiest, most flavorful results. I’ve learned a few tricks to help it turn out perfect every time.
- Doneness Cue: The log should hold its shape firmly when sliced but still feel creamy and moist inside—if it crumbles, it’s been chilled too long or too hard.
- Temperature Trick: Let the log sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly, enhancing creaminess and flavor release.
- Make-Ahead Move: Prepare the log a day in advance and chill overnight for richer flavor integration and easier slicing on party day.
- Avoid This Pitfall: Don’t skip draining the roasted peppers well—too much moisture can make the log soggy and hard to slice cleanly.
Serving Ideas
Finishing Touches
I love pairing this Antipasto Cream Cheese Log with crisp crostini or simple crackers. The contrast between the crunchy base and the creamy, herb-filled log is delightful. Adding a small drizzle of honey on some servings or scattered fresh basil leaves can provide a fresh sweetness and color pop that everyone notices and enjoys.
Pair It With
Serve alongside slices of cured meats like prosciutto or salami, marinated artichokes, and perhaps a bowl of mixed nuts to balance textures and flavors on your appetizer board. A chilled white wine or sparkling rosé pairs wonderfully, complementing the salty olives and tart cranberries.
Easy Plating Upgrades
For a quick upgrade, add small piles of olives or pieces of roasted peppers around the log on the serving platter. Garnishing with fresh herbs like rosemary sprigs or a scattering of finely chopped parsley brightens the look and adds an inviting aroma. You can also serve alongside colorful vegetable sticks for added crunch and color contrast, making the presentation feel fresh and wholesome.
Make-Ahead, Store & Reheat
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cream cheese log tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and creaminess. You’ll notice it softens slightly over time but still holds together nicely.
Freezing Tips
This recipe isn’t the best candidate for freezing because the cream cheese texture may become crumbly once thawed. If you do freeze it, wrap tightly and consume within a month. Thaw slowly in the fridge overnight and stir gently before serving to help regain some creaminess.
Reheating Antipasto Cream Cheese Log with Olives, Red Peppers, Cranberries, and Herbs Recipe Without Drying Out
This cream cheese log is best served cold or at room temperature, so avoid reheating it. If you want to soften it slightly, take it out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving. Heating it directly risks drying out or melting the log unevenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can try using a plant-based cream cheese substitute, but keep in mind the texture and flavor might not be quite the same. It’s best to test in small batches first.
At least 2 hours is best to let flavors meld and the log firm up for clean slicing. Overnight chilling makes it even better.
Fresh herbs really brighten this recipe, but if you must use dried, use about one-third the amount and add them early to allow their flavors to hydrate.
Slice it into about ½-inch rounds and arrange on a platter with crackers, crostini, and maybe some fresh veggies or charcuterie for variety.
Final Thoughts
This Antipasto Cream Cheese Log with Olives, Red Peppers, Cranberries, and Herbs Recipe truly nails the balance of savory, sweet, and fresh—all wrapped up in a creamy, easy-to-make appetizer. I still find myself reaching for it whenever I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it becomes a staple in your party repertoire. Happy entertaining!
PrintPrint Recipe
Antipasto Cream Cheese Log with Olives, Red Peppers, Cranberries, and Herbs Recipe
This Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a flavorful and easy appetizer featuring creamy cream cheese blended with olives, roasted red peppers, dried cranberries, and fresh herbs. It's perfect for parties or holiday gatherings and served with crackers, crostini, or bread.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 16 oz softened cream cheese (2 blocks)
- ½ cup finely chopped mixed olives (green and black)
- ¼ cup drained and diced roasted red peppers
- 2 tablespoons dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional, to blend the toppings)
For Serving
- Crackers, crostini, or bread
Instructions
- Prepare Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth blending. Place 16 oz of softened cream cheese in a medium mixing bowl.
- Add Olives and Peppers: Fold in ½ cup finely chopped mixed olives and ¼ cup diced roasted red peppers evenly to add briny and sweet elements.
- Incorporate Cranberries and Herbs: Add 2 tablespoons dried cranberries, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, and 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary, mixing well for a fresh aromatic flavor.
- Season and Optional Oil: Stir in ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Optionally, drizzle 1 teaspoon olive oil to add cohesiveness and sheen.
- Shape the Log: Use plastic wrap to form the mixture tightly into a log. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up and meld flavors.
- Coat and Garnish: Once chilled, unwrap and roll the log in remaining parsley for an elegant coating. Garnish with rosemary sprigs if desired. Serve with crackers, crostini, or bread.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Chilling the log is essential for easy slicing and flavor melding.
- Use good quality olives and roasted peppers for best flavor.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried if unavailable, but reduce quantity as dried herbs are more potent.
- The olive oil is optional but adds a nice texture and shine.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for best taste.
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