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- 16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (use oil-packed, drained) - 1/4 cup sliced black olives (Kalamata or regular) - 1/4 cup diced roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade) - 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh basil leaves - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste The main ingredients create a creamy base. The cream cheese gives a rich texture. Mozzarella adds a stretch. Parmesan gives a sharp taste. Sun-dried tomatoes bring sweetness. Black olives add saltiness. Roasted red peppers add a smoky flavor. Fresh basil brings brightness. Garlic powder and Italian seasoning round out the taste. You can customize your cheese log with optional add-ins. Try nuts like walnuts or almonds for crunch. Chopped herbs like parsley or dill can elevate the flavor. For more heat, add red pepper flakes. Serve this cheese log with assorted crackers and breadsticks. Choose a mix of flavors and textures. Whole grain crackers pair well. Thin breadsticks provide a nice crunch. For a touch of sweet, add fruit like grapes or figs. This adds color and freshness to the platter. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, gather all your ingredients. You need 16 oz of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. In a large mixing bowl, add these cheeses. Use a hand mixer or spatula to blend them until smooth. This step is key for a creamy texture. Next, fold in 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 1/4 cup of sliced black olives, 1/4 cup of diced roasted red peppers, and 1/4 cup of finely chopped basil. Don’t forget 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Add some freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix everything well until you see a nice blend of colors. Now, lay out a large sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Carefully scoop the cheese mixture into the center of this wrap. Using the edges of the wrap, shape the mixture into a log. Smooth the sides as you go. This step helps create a nice form. Once shaped, wrap the log tightly in the plastic wrap. Twist the ends to secure it well. Place the wrapped cheese log in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours. For the best taste, chill it overnight. When it’s firm to touch, unwrap the log from the plastic wrap. Transfer it to a stylish platter. If you like, roll the log in chopped nuts or herbs for extra flavor. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into generous rounds. Arrange the slices on the platter. Serve with assorted crackers and breadsticks for a delightful treat. To get a smooth texture for your cheese log, start with soft cream cheese. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps it blend well with the other cheeses. Use a hand mixer or spatula to mix the cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan until smooth. If you want a creamier texture, add a little heavy cream. This will make every bite melt in your mouth. Make your cheese log look stunning on the plate. After shaping it, try rolling it in chopped nuts or fresh herbs. This adds color and texture. You can also drizzle some olive oil around the log for a touch of elegance. Garnish with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of black pepper. These little details make your dish stand out at any party. Need a quick way to prepare? Make the cheese log a day ahead. Chilling overnight boosts the flavor and texture. You can also prep the ingredients in advance. Chop the sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and peppers a day before. Store them in the fridge to save time. This way, you can whip up this tasty treat with ease when guests arrive. Pro Tips Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smoother blend and better texture in the final cheese log. Customize Your Mix-ins: Feel free to swap or add different ingredients like artichokes, jalapeños, or different cheese varieties to suit your taste preferences. Chill for Maximum Flavor: Let the cheese log chill overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully for a richer taste experience. Presentation Matters: Enhance the visual appeal by garnishing with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil, making your platter not only delicious but also eye-catching. {{image_4}} You can make this cheese log fit a vegetarian diet. Swap out any meat-based toppings. For a rich flavor, add diced artichokes or roasted garlic. You can also use different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for a unique taste. Want to switch things up? Try adding different spices. For a spicy kick, mix in crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños. If you love sweet flavors, consider adding dried cranberries or figs. These will give your cheese log a delightful twist. Look for seasonal ingredients to keep your cheese log fresh. In spring, add fresh herbs like chives or dill. During fall, roasted pumpkin or squash can add a seasonal flair. You can also use fresh tomatoes in summer for that burst of flavor. To keep your Holiday Antipasto Cheese Log fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Make sure there are no air pockets. Store it in the fridge on a plate. This helps it stay cool and tasty. You can freeze the cheese log if you want to save some for later. Wrap it in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. Squeeze out all the air before sealing. It will keep well for up to three months. In the fridge, your cheese log lasts about five days. If frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating. An antipasto cheese log is a tasty cheese spread. It blends creamy cheeses with savory add-ins. This dish usually includes sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and roasted red peppers. You shape it like a log for fun serving. It’s perfect for parties and gatherings. Yes, you can make this cheese log ahead of time. I recommend preparing it a day before your event. Chill it overnight for the best flavor and texture. This way, you save time on the day of your gathering. Just slice and serve when ready! Assorted crackers and breadsticks work great. Choose crisp crackers for a nice contrast. Try whole grain or herbed varieties for added flavor. Breadsticks are fun for dipping too. You can also serve sliced baguette or toasted bread. They all complement the cheese log well. To adjust for fewer servings, simply cut the recipe in half. This means using 8 oz of cream cheese and half the other ingredients. You can also make smaller logs if you like. Just keep an eye on the chilling time. You want it to set nicely for serving. We explored how to make a tasty cheese log using main ingredients, add-ins, and accompaniments. I shared easy steps for making, shaping, and serving your cheese log. I also provided tips for texture, presentation, and time-saving. You can try different flavors and even make it vegetarian. Lastly, I covered smart storage techniques to keep it fresh. Enjoy making this simple dish that impresses your guests and adds flavor to your gatherings.

Holiday Antipasto Cheese Log

A festive cheese log filled with delicious antipasto ingredients, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Italian
Servings 12
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (use oil-packed, drained)
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives (Kalamata or regular)
  • 1/4 cup diced roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh basil leaves
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper
  • for serving assorted crackers and breadsticks

Instructions
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. Using a hand mixer or spatula, blend the cheeses together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  • Fold in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sliced black olives, diced roasted red peppers, and chopped basil leaves. Add the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  • Lay out a large sheet of plastic wrap on a clean, flat surface. Carefully spoon the cheese mixture into the center of the plastic wrap. Using the edges of the wrap, gently shape the mixture into a log form, smoothing the sides as you go. Once shaped, wrap the log tightly in the plastic wrap, twisting the ends to secure it well.
  • Place the wrapped cheese log in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours to firm up. For optimal flavor and texture, allow it to chill overnight.
  • After the cheese log has set and is firm to the touch, unwrap it from the plastic wrap. Transfer it to a stylish serving platter. If you wish, roll the log in chopped nuts (like walnuts or almonds) or herbs (such as parsley or dill) for an added layer of flavor and crunch.
  • Using a sharp knife, slice the cheese log into generous rounds. Arrange the slices beautifully on the platter and serve with an array of assorted crackers and delightful breadsticks for dipping.

Notes

For an elegant touch, garnish the platter with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of black pepper or a light drizzle of olive oil.
Keyword antipasto, cheese log, holiday appetizer