Is there anything better than an appetizer that steals the show? This Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is precisely that a stunning, flavorful, and incredibly easy-to-make centerpiece for your holiday table or any gathering. Imagine the vibrant, salty flavors of a classic Italian antipasto platter artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, pepperoncini, salami, and olives all finely chopped and enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese mixture, then rolled into a beautiful, rustic log. It’s a make-ahead dream that requires no cooking, just simple assembly. Your guests will be mesmerized by its appearance and delighted by its bold, savory taste. Let’s create this show-stopping holiday appetizer that promises to be the first empty platter of the night.
Everything You’ll Need: The Antipasto Shopping List
This recipe is wonderfully flexible. The core ingredients create the base, while the antipasto mix-ins can be tailored to your preferences. Here’s what you need for a perfect log.
Core Ingredients
- Cream Cheese (16 oz): Use two blocks of full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature. This is crucial for a smooth, blendable base.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Adds a delightful tang and helps create a softer, more spreadable consistency.
- Garlic (1 clove): Minced finely. It’s the essential aromatic backbone.
- Dried Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): For that herby, Mediterranean flavor.
- Salt (1/4 tsp) & Black Pepper (1/4 tsp): To taste.
The Antipasto Mix-Ins (The Star Players!)
- Genoa Salami (4 oz): Finely chopped. It provides a robust, meaty flavor.
- Provolone Cheese (3 oz): Finely chopped or shredded. Adds a sharp, melty cheese note.
- Marinated Artichoke Hearts (1/2 cup): Drained and finely chopped. They bring a tangy, tender texture.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes (1/3 cup): Packed in oil, drained and finely chopped. For a sweet, intense tomato punch.
- Pepperoncini (1/4 cup): Stemmed, seeded, and finely chopped. Offers a mild, vinegary heat.
- Black Olives (1/4 cup): Finely chopped (Kalamata olives are a great alternative for more bite).
- Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp): Finely chopped, plus more for garnish.
For Coating & Serving
- Chopped Nuts (1/2 cup): Toasted pecans or walnuts, finely chopped. This adds the perfect crunchy coating.
- Crackers & Bread: For serving. Choose a variety like water crackers, crostini, pita chips, or a sliced baguette.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Antipasto Log
Follow these simple steps for a flawless, photogenic appetizer log. Remember, the key is to have your cream cheese very soft!
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Ensure your cream cheese has been sitting out on the counter for at least 1-2 hours until it’s very soft to the touch. This is the most important step to avoid a lumpy mixture. While you wait, prepare all your antipasto ingredients. Finely chop the salami, provolone, artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, pepperoncini, olives, and parsley. Having everything pre-chopped and ready makes assembly a breeze.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Using a hand mixer (or a sturdy spatula), beat on medium speed until the mixture is completely smooth, creamy, and lump-free. This should take about 1-2 minutes. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix again until everything is fully incorporated.
Step 3: Fold in the Antipasto Goodness
Now, add all of your finely chopped ingredients to the cream cheese base: the salami, provolone, artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, pepperoncini, olives, and parsley. Switch to a sturdy spatula. Gently fold everything together until the colorful antipasto bits are evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture. Avoid over-mixing.
Step 4: Form and Chill the Log
Lay a large piece of plastic wrap (about 18 inches long) on your counter. Scoop the entire cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap. Using the spatula and your hands (lightly dampened with water to prevent sticking), shape the mixture into a uniform log, roughly 10-12 inches long. Don’t worry about perfection a rustic look is charming! Wrap the log tightly in the plastic wrap. Roll it gently on the counter to smooth out the shape. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time is essential as it firms up the log, making it sliceable and allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Add the Crunchy Coating
Just before serving, spread your finely chopped toasted nuts on a sheet of parchment paper. Unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it gently in the nuts, pressing lightly so they adhere to all sides. You can also roll it in additional chopped parsley, more antipasto bits, or a combination.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Transfer the finished log to a serving platter. Garnish with a few whole pepperoncini and sprigs of fresh parsley. Surround it with your chosen crackers and bread slices. Provide a cheese knife for easy spreading. Watch it disappear!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Appetizer Every Time
- The Softening Secret: If you forgot to soften the cream cheese, you can microwave the blocks (out of the foil!) on 50% power for 15-20 second increments. Do not let it melt.
- Texture is Key: Ensure all your mix-ins are finely and uniformly chopped. Large chunks will make the log difficult to shape and spread.
- Drain Well: Be diligent about draining the marinated ingredients (artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, olives). Excess moisture can make the log too soft.
- Get Creative: This recipe is a canvas! Swap salami for chopped ham or pepperoni. Use roasted red peppers instead of sun-dried tomatoes. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Make-Ahead Marvel: The log can be made and wrapped (without the nut coating) up to 3 days in advance. Roll in nuts right before serving for maximum crunch.
- Serving Variations: Don’t have time to form a log? Simply spoon the mixture into a decorative bowl and serve it as a dip! You can also form it into a ball or smaller individual logs.
Your New Go-To Holiday Appetizer Awaits
The Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is more than just a recipe; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a stress-free host’s best friend. It combines the beloved flavors of an Italian charcuterie board into one elegant, spreadable, and utterly delicious package. Its vibrant appearance makes it a festive centerpiece, while its make-ahead nature gives you more time to enjoy your own party. So this holiday season, skip the complicated canapés and embrace the simplicity and wow-factor of this incredible appetizer. Gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and get ready to receive the ultimate compliment: “Can I get this recipe?”
