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This Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is my go to appetizer when I want something show stopping and fuss free for any get together. Blending cream cheese with all the bold flavors of Italian antipasto salami briny olives and sun dried tomatoes it makes the party table feel extra special every time. With a make ahead option and endless ways to customize it this creamy log has become my favorite answer to holiday hosting.
The very first time I made this was for my neighbor’s big New Year celebration and I remember watching it disappear faster than anything else on the table. Every time I bring it out people line up for the recipe and I love that it makes me look like a kitchen pro with barely any effort.
Ingredients
- cream cheese: let it fully soften for the creamiest blending and smoothest log
- sour cream: adds silkiness and helps the mixture spread beautifully
- cheddar cheese: freshly grated is best for creamy texture and bolder flavor
- salami: choose a spicy Italian variety if you can and dice it small for even flavor in every bite
- Italian herb blend: dried oregano basil and a pinch of rosemary tie it all together
- roasted red peppers: their sweetness and color pop is hard to beat
- olives: green or black both work go with a briny firm option for the best bite
- sun dried tomatoes: look for oil packed and save the oil for drizzling on top
- crackers: good sturdy ones hold up to the thick creamy spread I always reach for Ritz or Triscuits
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Get Your Pan Ready:
- Line a loaf pan with plastic wrap and add a quick mist of nonstick spray This makes sure your cheese log comes out smooth with no sticking or breaking
- Mix The Magic:
- Combine softened cream cheese sour cream and grated cheddar in a big bowl Stir thoroughly with a spatula until the mixture is completely homogeneous Add your chopped salami roasted red peppers sliced olives and sprinkle in the Italian herbs Mix gently but well so every bite has plenty of goodies and the seasonings are distributed
- Shape Your Log:
- Scrape the whole mixture into the lined loaf pan Press everything down gently with a spatula or clean hands to prevent any gaps or air pockets Fold the plastic wrap over top for a snug fit
- Time to Rest:
- Place the wrapped pan in your refrigerator Chill for at least four hours for the log to firm up but overnight will let all the flavors marry and deepen
- The Big Reveal:
- Unwrap the chilled log by lifting it out with the plastic wrap and gently turning it onto a serving plate Drizzle any reserved sun dried tomato oil over the top and scatter finely chopped sun dried tomatoes and fresh herbs if you wish
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Sun dried tomatoes are my secret ingredient here The oil from the jar not only adds gorgeous shine but also soaks the cheese base with little pockets of rich tangy flavor It always reminds me of making antipasto platters with my family for holiday gatherings where every bowl held something colorful and briny
Storage Tips
Wrap leftover cheese log tightly in plastic wrap and tuck it into the coldest part of your refrigerator It will keep fresh flavor and texture for up to a week If making in advance just wait to add the fresh herb and oil topping until the day you serve for the prettiest results
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap asiago or provolone for cheddar if you like a nuttier cheese Chopped artichoke hearts or capers can stand in for olives for a different briny element You can easily make a vegetarian version by skipping the salami and doubling up on the roasted peppers and marinated veggies
Perfect Ways to Serve
Present it on a platter surrounded by a mix of crackers fresh sliced baguette or even crunchy raw veggies like carrots and bell peppers For an Italian themed night I love pairing it with olives marinated mushrooms and sliced prosciutto
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A Little History of Antipasto
Antipasto means before the meal in Italian and is all about tempting snacks that get everyone excited for the main event This log channels the flavors of classic antipasto platters into a creamy easy to share spread Great for when you want those tastes without the fuss of arranging a dozen different jars and platters
Recipe FAQs
- → Why line the pan with plastic wrap?
The plastic wrap makes removing the cheese log from the pan easier and helps keep a smooth, neat shape.
- → Why avoid pre-grated cheese?
Freshly grated cheese blends more smoothly without additives, enhancing texture and flavor in the final spread.
- → How far ahead can I prepare this spread?
It can be made up to a week in advance and kept refrigerated; toppings are best added just before serving.
- → Why serve at room temperature?
Allowing it to warm slightly makes the spread softer and enhances its flavor and ease of serving.
- → Can I substitute different meats or cheeses?
Yes, spicy salamis and cheeses like asiago work well; avoid mozzarella as it doesn't contribute enough flavor.