Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe
Get ready to wow a crowd with this irresistible Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log! This celebration-worthy appetizer takes all your favorite Italian antipasto flavors—think smoky salami, herby cream cheese, briny olives, sweet roasted peppers, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes—and brings them together in one gorgeous, sliceable creation. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday party, a casual get-together, or just a night in with friends, the Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is guaranteed to disappear fast, leaving everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in how each ingredient plays its part—adding pops of color, depth of flavor, or creamy richness to the log. Don’t be tempted to skip anything if you want that full antipasto magic!
- Cream cheese: The creamy base that keeps the log spreadable, tangy, and utterly indulgent.
- Sour cream: Adds a silky texture and a bit of tang, balancing the richness of the cream cheese.
- Dried herbs (thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary): These bring in the classic Italian flavors; use Italian seasoning to keep things simple if you like.
- Black pepper: Lends a subtle whisper of heat and pairs beautifully with the herbs and salami.
- Garlic powder: Infuses the log with a gentle, all-over savoriness—no need to fuss with fresh garlic.
- Kosher salt: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors, so don’t skip it.
- Red pepper flakes (or chili flakes): For a gentle kick; adjust to your crowd’s spice tolerance.
- Cheddar or other cheese, freshly grated: Gives the cream cheese log its engaging, melty bite and a touch of sharpness.
- Roasted peppers: Add sweet, succulent depth and beautiful flecks of color.
- Salami: Perfectly savory and just a little bit decadent—finely chopped to distribute that seasoned flavor in every bite.
- Green olives: Briny and bold, they punch up the antipasto vibe.
- Green onion: Provides a light, fresh lift and a satisfying crunch.
- Sun-dried tomato strips in oil: Offer a concentrated, tangy sweetness and gorgeous color both inside and on top.
- Flat-leaf parsley: For a fabulous herbaceous note and a final pop of green (chives work if that’s your preference!).
- Rosemary sprigs: Not just garnish—these add serious festive charm atop your log.
- Snack crackers (like Ritz or Triscuits): Essential for scooping and piling up all that flavor.
How to Make Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log
Step 1: Prepare the Loaf Pan
Start by lightly spritzing your loaf pan with cooking oil, then line it generously with cling wrap, making sure there’s enough overhang on all sides. This simple prep step ensures you’ll be able to unmold your Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log easily and without any sticky disasters. Don’t skip the overhang; it will make your life so much easier later on!
Step 2: Mix and Taste the Filling
With all your ingredients prepped and ready, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, all your herbs and seasonings, the grated cheese, peppers, salami, olives, green onion, half the sun-dried tomatoes (save the rest for topping), and parsley in a big mixing bowl. Give everything a thorough stir—you want every bite to be loaded with antipasto goodness! Taste and adjust the salt now, keeping in mind how salty your crackers will be.
Step 3: Shape and Chill the Log
Scrape the creamy, chunky mixture into your lined loaf pan. Use a spatula to press it down and smooth the surface, making sure to eliminate any air pockets. The log will be firmer and easier to slice if you press it well. If you’re using a smaller pan, expect a taller, more dramatic log—there’s no wrong answer here!
Step 4: Wrap and Refrigerate
Pull the overhanging cling wrap over the top, covering the log completely. Pop the pan in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but you can leave it for up to a week if needed. The flavors meld and deepen over time, so feel free to make this ahead for stress-free entertaining.
Step 5: Unmold and Garnish
When you’re ready to serve, gently lift the Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log out of the loaf pan using the cling wrap overhang. Peel away the wrap and place the log on your favorite platter. Top with the remaining sun-dried tomatoes and a generous drizzle of their oil—you want those glossy, jewel-like strips to catch the eye!
Step 6: Add Fresh Herbs for a Festive Finish
Garnish extravagantly with fresh parsley and sprigs of rosemary. Not only does this add an inviting aroma, but it also makes your antipasto log look extra special. Don’t be shy—this is the “wow!” moment.
Step 7: Serve at the Right Temperature
Your Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is best served closer to room temperature instead of straight from the fridge. It will be soft enough to scoop with crackers and totally irresistible. You can offer small knives for spreading, but honestly, everyone will want to dive in cracker-first!
How to Serve Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log
Garnishes
A beautiful Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log deserves equally fabulous garnishes. Use a combination of flat-leaf parsley, rosemary sprigs, and a few extra sun-dried tomatoes to create a festive, colorful look. If you’re feeling playful, tuck in some extra olives or roasted peppers around the base for even more Italian flair!
Side Dishes
This flavorful log is a showstopper all on its own, but it also pairs perfectly with a simple antipasto platter—think marinated artichokes, prosciutto, and crisp veggies. Offer an assortment of crackers and fresh sliced baguette, and you’ll have everything your guests could want for easy, satisfying snacking.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to get a little creative with your Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log! Shape it into a wreath or a round for something different, or slice and arrange it with crackers in a cascading pattern down the center of your board. A drizzle of extra olive oil or a shaving of parmesan on top can add that last chef’s touch!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log tightly in cling wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will stay fresh and delicious in the fridge for up to five days, and the flavors might get even more irresistible with a little extra time!
Freezing
If you want to stash some for later, you can freeze the log (without the garnishes on top) for up to two months. Wrap it well to prevent freezer burn, and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Add fresh garnishes after defrosting to keep it looking its best.
Reheating
While the Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log shouldn’t be heated (it’s meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temp), you can take it out of the fridge 30-60 minutes before serving so it softens and the flavors shine. Avoid microwaving, as this can change the texture.
FAQs
Can I use different meats or cheeses in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the salami with pepperoni, prosciutto, or even a vegetarian option like chopped artichoke hearts. For cheese, try mozzarella or provolone for a milder flavor, or a sharper Italian cheese for more punch.
Is this dish gluten free?
The Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log itself is gluten-free—just be sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers or veggie dippers if you’re hosting anyone with dietary restrictions.
How far in advance can I make the log?
One of the best things about this recipe is you can prepare it up to a week ahead! Just wrap it tightly and store it in the fridge (without the garnishes) until you’re ready to serve.
Can I double or halve the recipe?
Definitely. If you’re feeding a large party, double the ingredients and use a larger loaf pan or divide into two logs. For smaller gatherings, halve everything and use a mini loaf pan or even shape by hand.
How do you get such clean slices?
For pristine slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water. Wipe the blade between each cut and slice only when the log has rested at room temperature for about 20 minutes—even easier if the log is still a bit chilled.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sharing a homemade Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log—rich, colorful, and bursting with old-world flavors. Whether it’s for a holiday table or a casual afternoon, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Give it a try and watch everyone gather around, savor, and smile!
Print
Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 cheese log 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a flavorful and vibrant appetizer that is perfect for any gathering. Creamy cream cheese is blended with herbs, spices, cheddar cheese, roasted peppers, salami, olives, green onions, sun-dried tomatoes, and parsley for a delightful mix of flavors. Serve this delicious spread with your favorite crackers for a crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- ½ tsp thyme or 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp basil
- ½ tsp rosemary
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp red pepper or chili flakes
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, freshly grated
Add-Ins:
- 9 oz roasted peppers, drained and finely chopped
- 6 oz salami, finely chopped
- ¾ cup green olives, finely chopped
- ⅓ cup green onion, finely minced
- 7 oz sun-dried tomato strips with oil, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
- Rosemary sprigs for decoration
- Ritz, Triscuits, or other snack crackers for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Spray a loaf pan with oil and line it with cling wrap, leaving an overhang.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine all the Cream Cheese Mixture ingredients, adjust salt to taste, and mix well.
- Fill Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, press to remove air pockets, and smooth the surface.
- Chill: Cover the pan with cling wrap, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to 1 week.
- Unmold: Unmold the cheese log onto a platter, remove the cling wrap.
- Garnish: Top with sun-dried tomatoes, pour over oil, and garnish with parsley and rosemary sprigs.
- Serve: Serve the cheese log closer to room temperature with crackers. Knives for spreading are optional.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- You can adjust the seasoning based on personal preference.
- Choose your favorite crackers for serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixing, Chilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Italian, Antipasto, Cream Cheese Log, Appetizer, Party Food
