Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese (Print View)

Creamy cheese with olives, peppers, and herbs—perfect for spreading on crackers at festive parties.

# Components:

→ Dairy

01 - 16 ounces cream cheese, softened

→ Vegetables and Fruit

02 - 1/2 cup mixed olives (green and black), finely chopped
03 - 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, drained and diced
04 - 2 tablespoons dried cranberries

→ Herbs and Seasoning

05 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
06 - 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
07 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

→ Oils

08 - 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional, for mixing toppings)

→ Serving

09 - Crackers, crostini, or bread for serving

# Directions:

01 - In a medium bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with garlic powder using a spatula until completely smooth.
02 - Transfer the cream cheese mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Shape it gently into a uniform log, then wrap securely and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the form.
03 - While the cream cheese log chills, finely chop the mixed olives, roasted red peppers, fresh parsley, and fresh rosemary. In a small bowl, combine these with olive oil (if using) for even distribution.
04 - Remove the cream cheese log from the refrigerator and unwrap. Place onto a serving platter. Scatter the olive, pepper, and herb mixture over the surface and press gently to adhere, covering all sides evenly.
05 - Evenly sprinkle dried cranberries over the top for an added pop of flavor and color. Optionally, garnish with extra parsley or rosemary. Serve immediately with crackers, crostini, or slices of fresh bread.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Great for gatherings and looks beautiful on any party tray
  • Uses easy to find ingredients and pantry staples
  • You can prepare it ahead and just add toppings before serving
  • Easy to customize flavors for your crowd or season
02 -
  • Perfect for making ahead saving time on party day
  • Packed with Mediterranean inspired flavor makes it feel extra special
  • Easily adapted for nut free or gluten free diets
03 -
  • For the smoothest texture really let your cream cheese soften before mixing If you are short on time cut it in cubes and let sit at room temperature for quicker softening
  • Pat olives and roasted peppers as dry as possible or your toppings may slide off
  • A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or fresh cracked black pepper just before serving is incredible I learned the hard way that bland dairy needs a little lift at the end

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