Holiday Olive and Pepper Cheese Log

This stunning, savory cheese log is the perfect make-ahead appetizer for any holiday gathering. It combines the creamy texture of cheese with the bold, salty, and sweet flavors of classic antipasto ingredients, offering a beautiful presentation and a delicious spread for crackers.

📝 Ingredients

 

For the Cheese Log:

• 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded (or a blend of cheddar and Parmesan)

• 1/2 cup green olives, chopped (pimiento-stuffed work well)

• 1/4 cup black olives (like Kalamata), pitted and chopped

• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, drained and finely diced

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or a mix of parsley and chives)

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• Optional: 2-4 tablespoons of sour cream or mayonnaise for a softer texture

For the Topping/Coating:

• 1/2 cup additional chopped roasted red pepper and olives (for rolling or topping)

• 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary (for garnish, as pictured)

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped

For Serving:

• Assorted crackers (Ritz, water crackers, flatbreads)

• Vegetable sticks (carrots, celery)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

 

1. Prepare the Cheese Base: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer) to beat the softened cream cheese until it is completely smooth and fluffy.

2. Mix in Flavorings: Add the shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, oregano/Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Beat on low speed until just combined.

3. Fold in Inclusions: Use a rubber spatula to gently fold in the chopped olives, roasted red peppers, and the chopped fresh parsley/chives. Mix until the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.

4. Shape the Log: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on your counter. Scoop the entire cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap. Use the plastic wrap to help you form the mixture into a uniform log shape (about 8-10 inches long). Twist the ends of the plastic wrap to tighten and smooth the log.

5. Chill: Refrigerate the cheese log for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to firm up completely for easy handling and slicing.

6. Coat and Garnish: Just before serving, unwrap the chilled log. Spread your reserved chopped olives and peppers and a little extra chopped parsley onto a plate or cutting board. Gently roll the log in the mixture to coat the sides and top, or press the toppings into the cheese.

7. Serve: Place the coated cheese log on a serving platter or wooden board. Garnish the top with fresh rosemary sprigs for a beautiful, festive look. Serve immediately with crackers and spreaders.

💡 Recipe Notes and Tips

 

• Softening Cream Cheese: It is crucial for the cream cheese to be fully softened (room temperature) to prevent lumps in your final mixture.

• Make Ahead: This is an excellent make-ahead appetizer! You can prepare the entire log (steps 1-5) up to 3 days in advance. Keep it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator and coat it with the topping just before serving.

• Serving Temperature: The cheese log is best served after sitting out for 10-15 minutes after being removed from the fridge. This allows the cheese to soften slightly, making it easier to spread or scoop with crackers.

• Variations: You can add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, a few ounces of finely diced salami or pepperoni, or substitute the sharp white cheddar with Parmesan or smoked Gouda.

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❓ Related Questions

 

• How long can I store the cheese log?

  • The completed, chilled cheese log can be stored, tightly wrapped, in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.

• Can I freeze a cheese log?

  • Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap the prepared, uncoated log tightly in plastic wrap, then an outer layer of foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before coating and serving.

• What should I use if I don’t have roasted red peppers?

  • You can substitute them with finely diced pimento (like from the jar) or finely diced sweet red bell pepper that has been lightly sautéed and cooled.

• What are some good alternatives to a log shape?

  • You can shape the mixture into a classic cheese ball and coat it in chopped pecans or pistachios mixed with the toppings, or press it into a small springform pan to make a cheese disk.