Antipasto Cream Cheese Log (Easy & Irresistible Appetizer)

If you need an appetizer that looks impressive but takes almost no effort, this Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is the answer. It comes together in minutes, uses simple ingredients, and delivers bold Italian-inspired flavor in every bite.

I love making this Antipasto Cream Cheese Log for parties, holidays, or last-minute gatherings because it feels fancy without the stress. The creamy base, savory antipasto toppings, and no-bake prep make it perfect for entertaining.

Serve it with crackers or toasted bread, and watch it disappear fast. It’s one of those recipes everyone asks for after the first bite.

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INGREDIENTS

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this Antipasto Cream Cheese Log. Simple ingredients, big flavor ✨

• Cream cheese, softened – 8 oz (225 g)
• Roasted red peppers, finely chopped – ½ cup (120 g)
• Green olives, finely chopped – ⅓ cup (50 g)
• Black olives, finely chopped – ⅓ cup (50 g)
• Marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped – ½ cup (120 g)
• Pepperoncini peppers, finely chopped – 2 tbsp (30 g)
• Sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), drained and chopped – ¼ cup (40 g)
• Italian seasoning – 1 tsp (1 g)
• Garlic powder – ½ tsp (1 g)
• Black pepper – ¼ tsp (0.5 g)

Optional (for extra flavor):

• Grated Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup (25 g)
• Fresh parsley or basil, finely chopped – 1–2 tbsp (5–10 g)

INSTRUCTIONS

Follow these easy steps to make a perfect Antipasto Cream Cheese Log every time 👌

1. Soften the cream cheese.
   Place the cream cheese in a medium bowl and let it soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes until smooth and easy to mix.
2. Mix the base.
   Add the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper to the softened cream cheese. Stir until fully combined and creamy.
3. Add the antipasto ingredients.
   Fold in the roasted red peppers, green olives, black olives, artichoke hearts, pepperoncini, and sun-dried tomatoes. Mix gently so the texture stays chunky and colorful.
4. Add optional extras.
   If using Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs, fold them in now for extra flavor and freshness.
5. Shape the log.
   Spoon the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to shape it into a tight log, smoothing the sides as you roll.
6. Chill to set.
   Wrap the log tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to slice cleanly.
7. Serve.
   Unwrap just before serving and place on a platter. Serve the Antipasto Cream Cheese Log with crackers, crostini, or toasted baguette slices.

TIPS & VARIATIONS

These tips help your Antipasto Cream Cheese Log turn out perfectly every time, with easy ways to customize it 💡

Helpful Tips

• Drain everything well. Excess moisture can make the log soft, so pat chopped ingredients dry with paper towels.
• Soften the cream cheese fully. This makes mixing easier and gives you a smoother, creamier texture.
• Chill longer for cleaner slices. If you want sharp edges, refrigerate the log for up to 2 hours.
• Use plastic wrap tightly. A tight wrap helps the log hold its shape beautifully.

Easy Variations

• Spicy version: Add ½ tsp (1 g) crushed red pepper flakes or extra pepperoncini.
• Meaty antipasto: Mix in ¼ cup (35 g) finely chopped salami or prosciutto.
• Mediterranean twist: Swap pepperoncini for capers and add chopped Kalamata olives.
• Cheese lover’s option: Mix in shredded mozzarella – ½ cup (55 g) for extra richness.

SERVING IDEAS

This Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a total showstopper on any table. Here are some easy and delicious ways to serve it 🧀✨

• Classic appetizer platter: Serve with assorted crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette.
• Vegetable dippers: Pair with cucumber rounds, bell pepper strips, or celery sticks for a lighter option.
• Party board centerpiece: Place it on a charcuterie board with cured meats, cheeses, nuts, and grapes.
• Holiday appetizer: Perfect for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or Easter gatherings.
• Weeknight snack: Spread on toast or warm pita for a quick, savory bite.

For extra presentation, drizzle a little olive oil over the top and sprinkle with fresh herbs right before serving.

FAQs

Recipe

Yield: 1 log

Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Print

This Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is creamy, savory, and packed with bold Italian flavors. It’s an easy, no-bake appetizer that’s perfect for parties, holidays, and entertaining.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Chill Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

• Cream cheese, softened – 8 oz (225 g)
• Roasted red peppers, finely chopped – ½ cup (120 g)
• Green olives, finely chopped – ⅓ cup (50 g)
• Black olives, finely chopped – ⅓ cup (50 g)
• Marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped – ½ cup (120 g)
• Pepperoncini peppers, finely chopped – 2 tbsp (30 g)
• Sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), drained and chopped – ¼ cup (40 g)
• Italian seasoning – 1 tsp (1 g)
• Garlic powder – ½ tsp (1 g)
• Black pepper – ¼ tsp (0.5 g)

Optional:

• Grated Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup (25 g)
• Fresh parsley or basil, finely chopped – 1–2 tbsp (5–10 g)

Instructions

1. Place the softened cream cheese in a medium bowl and mix until smooth.
   
2. Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until fully combined.
   
3. Fold in roasted red peppers, green olives, black olives, artichoke hearts, pepperoncini, and sun-dried tomatoes.
   
4. Mix in Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if using.
   
5. Spoon the mixture onto plastic wrap and shape into a tight log.
   
6. Wrap securely and refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
   
7. Unwrap and serve the Antipasto Cream Cheese Log with crackers or bread.

Notes

Drain and pat dry all ingredients to avoid excess moisture.

Chill longer for cleaner slices and firmer texture.

Best served cold.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 10 Serving Size: About 2 tbsp per serving
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 180Total Fat: 16gCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 4g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients used.

This Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is one of those appetizers that feels special but couldn’t be easier to make. It’s creamy, packed with bold Italian flavors, and perfect for sharing with friends and family.

If you try this Antipasto Cream Cheese Log, don’t forget to save it to Pinterest so you can make it again for parties, holidays, or last-minute guests. I’d love to hear how you served it or what fun twists you added—drop a comment and let me know!

Happy snacking 🤍