In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to blend everything together until smooth and well combined.
Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, mixing well to incorporate them into the cream cheese mixture.
Step 2: Shape the Log
On a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper, transfer the cream cheese mixture. Use the wrap to help shape the mixture into a log form, rolling it up tightly. Once the log is shaped, wrap it up completely in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow it to firm up.
Step 3: Prepare the Antipasto Filling
While the cream cheese log chills, prepare the antipasto filling. In a small bowl, combine the chopped Kalamata olives, green olives, pepperoncini, roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes (if using), fresh basil, and pine nuts or almonds (if using). Stir everything together and set aside.
Step 4: Coat the Cream Cheese Log
Once the cream cheese log has chilled, remove it from the fridge and unwrap it. Place the antipasto filling mixture on a large plate or cutting board. Gently roll the chilled cream cheese log in the antipasto filling, pressing down lightly so the mixture sticks to the outside of the log.
Ensure that the log is evenly coated with the antipasto ingredients, creating a festive, colorful appearance.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the antipasto cream cheese log to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley on top for an extra pop of color and freshness. Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots.
Tips for the Perfect Antipasto Cream Cheese Log:
- Make-Ahead: This appetizer can be made ahead of time. Simply wrap the shaped cream cheese log and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before serving.
- Customizing the Filling: Feel free to adjust the antipasto ingredients to your preference. You can add marinated artichoke hearts, olives, or even small cubes of salami or pepperoni for a heartier option.
- Chill the Log: Chilling the cream cheese log is key to ensuring it holds its shape when rolled and when served.
- Add Heat: For some extra heat, you can add chopped jalapeños or red chili flakes to the antipasto mixture.
Why You’ll Love This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log:
This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors, all wrapped up in a fun, holiday-friendly presentation. It’s simple to make, incredibly flavorful, and looks beautiful on any appetizer spread. With the variety of textures from the creamy cheese to the crunchy nuts and briny olives, this dish will definitely be a crowd-pleaser at your next holiday gathering!