Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the holiday season approaches, the scent of mangled morsels of salami and roasted peppers wafts through my kitchen, inviting me to assemble a festive Italian Cheese Log – the quintessential Christmas Appetizer! This delightful creation offers a savory twist on the traditional antipasto platter and can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for any bustling holiday gathering. But it’s not just quick; this vibrant log allows for plenty of customization, pleasing diverse palates without breaking the bank. I love that I can make it ahead of time, leaving me free to soak in the celebratory spirit, knowing I’ve got a colorful centerpiece ready to impress. Curious how to make this exciting appetizer your own? Let’s get started! Why Is This Cheese Log So Special? Versatile and Customizable: This Italian Cheese Log can easily be tailored to suit any palate, making it a hit for your holiday gatherings. Economical Alternative: Using simple ingredients, it offers a rich, gourmet taste without stretching your budget, just like our Cheese Grape Skewers. Make-Ahead Delight: Prep this appetizer in under 30 minutes and refrigerate it for up to a week, freeing you up for the festivities. Visual and Flavorful: With its vibrant colors and robust flavors, it’s sure to impress your guests! This delightful centerpiece takes traditional antipasto to new heights, ensuring no one leaves hungry. Christmas Appetizer Ingredients – Italian Cheese Log Get ready to create your own festive masterpiece with these delightful ingredients! For the Cheese Mixture Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy base for the log; for a softer texture, spreadable cream cheese can replace sour cream. Sour Cream – Adds tanginess and helps loosen the mixture for easy scooping; Greek yogurt or mayonnaise can also work as substitutions. Thyme, Oregano, Basil, Rosemary, Black Pepper – A seasoning blend that enhances Italian flavor; for convenience, use 1 tsp of Italian seasoning instead. Garlic Powder, Salt, Red Pepper/Chili Flakes – Adds depth and a kick of heat; adjust the salt according to the saltiness of serving crackers. Cheddar or Other Cheese (Freshly Grated) – Supplies extra flavor and texture; consider substitutions like Swiss, Gruyere, or pepper jack, but avoid mozzarella. For the Fillings Roasted Peppers (Finely Chopped) – Brings sweet, smoky flavor and vibrant color; consider using jarred varieties for convenience. Salami (Finely Chopped) – The key flavor component that adds richness; for a meatless option, skip the salami and incorporate grated parmesan instead. Green Olives (Finely Chopped) – Contributes a briny flavor to balance the richness of the log. Green Onion (Minced) – Adds freshness and a gentle crunch to the cheese log. For the Toppings Sun Dried Tomato Strips (with Oil) – These add a sweet tang and are used for topping; utilize the infused oil for added flavor when serving. Fresh Parsley or Chives (Finely Chopped) – For garnish, adding a pop of fresh green to your dish. Crackers (e.g., Jatz) – Essential for serving, allowing guests to scoop the cheese log easily. With these ingredients, your Christmas Appetizer is poised to become the talk of the table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Appetiser – Italian Cheese Log! Step 1: Prepare the Loaf Pan Start your festive Italian Cheese Log by preheating your pantry essentials. Lightly spray a standard loaf pan with cooking oil to prevent sticking, and line it with cling wrap, allowing the wrap to extend beyond the edges. This will make it easier to remove the cheese log later. Set the prepared pan aside while you work on the cheese mixture. Step 2: Mix the Cheese Base In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes of vigorous stirring. Incorporate the thyme, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and red pepper flakes to infuse your mixture with Italian flavors. Add the freshly grated cheddar and mix thoroughly until evenly blended. You’ll know it’s ready when there are no lumps, and the mixture is a lovely cohesive texture. Step 3: Fold in Flavorful Fillings Now, carefully fold in the finely chopped roasted peppers, salami, green olives, and minced green onion into your creamy cheese mixture. Use a spatula to gently combine, ensuring that the vibrant colors and rich flavors are evenly distributed throughout the cheese base. The Italian Cheese Log should start to take on a robust character at this stage, with beautiful specks of color throughout. Step 4: Shape the Cheese Log Transfer the delicious cheese mixture into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Gently press the mixture down to eliminate any air pockets, ensuring stability in your final shape. If you prefer a freeform log, you can use the cling wrap to shape it into a log on a separate plate instead. Refrigerate the cheese log for a minimum of 4 hours, but ideally up to a week for maximum flavor infusion. Step 5: Prepare for Serving When ready to serve, carefully turn the chilled cheese log out onto a serving platter. Remove the cling wrap and let it warm slightly to room temperature, making it easier to scoop. Top your Italian Cheese Log generously with sun-dried tomato strips and drizzle with flavored oil for an inviting presentation. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives to add a touch of green and festive flair. Step 6: Enjoy with Crackers Pair your stunning Christmas Appetiser with an assortment of crackers, such as Jatz, for delightful scooping. Aim to serve the Italian Cheese Log closer to room temperature for optimal flavor and texture. Your guests will be charmed by this delightful combination of creamy, savory, and tangy flavors, making your holiday gathering a memorable one! How to Store and Freeze Italian Cheese Log Fridge: Keep the Italian Cheese Log tightly wrapped in cling film or in an airtight container for up to one week. It’s best enjoyed fresh, ideally within 3-5 days for optimal flavor. Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cheese log in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, sealing tightly. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen log to the fridge and let it thaw overnight before serving. This preserves the creamy texture and flavors. Reheating: Serve the cheese log at room temperature for best scooping and flavor experience; there’s no need to reheat it as it’s designed to be enjoyed chilled! Make Ahead Options These festive Italian Cheese Logs are a meal prep dream come true! You can easily prepare the cheese mixture up to 24 hours in advance, saving valuable time during your holiday celebrations. Simply follow the instructions to mix the ingredients, then shape the log and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, but ideally, up to a week for maximum flavor. To maintain quality, ensure the log is tightly wrapped in cling wrap to prevent drying out. When it’s time to serve, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before topping with sun-dried tomatoes and garnishing. Enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, perfect for busy cooks! Expert Tips for Italian Cheese Log Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially cheeses and herbs, are fresh. This enhances flavor and texture in your Christmas Appetizer. Finely Chop Fillings: For an even distribution, finely chop roasted peppers, salami, and olives. This prevents large chunks that can disrupt the smooth texture. Press Firmly: When shaping your cheese log, press the mixture firmly into the loaf pan. This minimizes air pockets, leading to a more cohesive final product. Adjust Seasoning as Needed: Taste your mixture before refrigerating. The saltiness of the salami and olives can influence seasoning, so adjust accordingly! Customize Boldly: Feel free to swap in your favorite ingredients! This Italian Cheese Log invites creativity, be it by adding nuts, herbs, or extra veggies. What to Serve with Festive Italian Cheese Log? The perfect festive spread is just the beginning of your holiday magic, waiting to delight your guests! Crunchy Fresh Veggies: Carrot sticks, celery, and bell pepper strips provide a crisp contrast, enhancing the creamy richness of the cheese log. Their freshness guarantees a refreshing bite between savoring cheesy goodness. Garlic Bread Slices: Warm, toasty garlic bread adds a delightful crunch, perfectly absorbing the flavors of the cheese. It’s an irresistible pairing – especially when your guests slather it on before each bite. Savory Meat Platter: A selection of prosciutto and salami elevates your appetizer spread, creating a delightful combination of textures and tastes. It invites guests to mix and match flavors, spreading that convivial holiday spirit. Bruschetta with Tomatoes: Toasty, crunchy bruschetta topped with diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar offers a flavorful bite that perfectly complements the cheese log. The acidity of the tomatoes provides a lovely balance, making every bite delightful. Sparkling White Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling wine elevates the experience, perfectly complementing the Italian flavors. The bubbles dance on your palate, making each sip a celebration unto itself! Fruit and Nut Mix: Fresh figs, grapes, or slices of pear served alongside crunchy nuts create a beautiful visual and a sweet counterpoint to your savory cheese log. Their natural sweetness will delight your guests, encouraging them to nibble throughout the event. Italian Herb Flatbreads: These chewy breads made with herbs mirror the Italian flavors in your cheese log. They create a harmonious fiber-rich option for scooping, bringing out the layered taste of the cheeses. Chocolate-Covered Almonds: Sweet and salty chocolate-covered almonds make a surprising yet wonderful finish to your appetizer spread. Guests will love indulging their sweet tooth after enjoying the savory cheese delight. This diverse selection ensures that every guest finds their favorite accompaniment to the Festive Italian Cheese Log! Christmas Appetizer – Italian Cheese Log Variations Feel free to get creative with this festive cheese log; your taste buds will thank you! Vegetarian Delight: Swap out salami for ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese for a delicious meatless option. This variation retains a rich flavor profile while making it lighter and just as satisfying. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to infuse some heat into the mix. This vibrant twist brings a delightful zing that will thrill spice lovers at your holiday party. Nutty Crunch: Roll your finished log in finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, for a lovely crunch. Nuts not only provide texture but also add a layer of earthy flavor that complements the creamy filling beautifully. Herbed Variation: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or cilantro directly into the cheese mixture for an aromatic touch. The addition of fresh herbs lightens the flavor and adds a pop of freshness that’s perfect for the holidays. Mediterranean Flair: Mix in some chopped artichokes or capers for a Mediterranean twist! These ingredients brighten the cheese log with tangy notes, offering a delightful surprise to your guests. Sweet Surprise: Sprinkle in some finely chopped dried figs or cranberries for a sweet and savory combo. The natural sugars combine beautifully with the cheese for a luscious depth of flavor. Creamy Avocado: Fold in mashed avocado before shaping the log for a rich and creamy texture. This twist not only adds a beautiful green hue but also provides healthy fats that enhance the overall richness. Who knew that a festive Italian Cheese Log could be so versatile? You might also enjoy delicious combinations like those in our Stuffed Italian Meatloaf for some additional cozy flavor this holiday season! Italian Cheese Log Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe ingredients for the cheese log? Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose ripe ingredients like roasted peppers that should be sweet and tender, without dark spots. When selecting olives, go for plump, shiny ones, as they add a briny punch. Fresh herbs should be vibrant and fragrant; wilted or brown leaves won’t have the same impact. How should I store the Italian Cheese Log? To keep your Italian Cheese Log fresh, wrap it tightly in cling film or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week, but it’s best enjoyed within 3-5 days for optimal flavor. Can I freeze the Italian Cheese Log? Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the cheese log tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture. What should I do if my cheese log is too soft? Very! If the mixture seems too soft, you can refrigerate it for an additional hour or two to help it firm up. Alternatively, folding in a bit more grated cheese or even some crumbled feta can help thicken the mixture while adding a delightful twist of flavor. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Definitely! If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, you can make this Italian Cheese Log vegetarian by omitting the salami and substituting it with grated parmesan. Always check for any allergies, especially with ingredients like cream cheese and olives; stick to the brands that suit your needs! Can I use different cheese varieties in the log? Absolutely! While the recipe calls for cheddar or a similar cheese, the fun of this Italian Cheese Log lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with Swiss, Gruyere, or even spicy pepper jack. Just be sure to avoid mozzarella, as it may not blend as smoothly. Delightful Christmas Appetizer – Flavorful Italian Cheese Log This Christmas Appetizer – Italian Cheese Log is a versatile, festive dish that offers a savory twist on traditional antipasto, perfect for holiday gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsRefrigeration Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 15 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: AppetizersCuisine: ItalianCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cheese Mixture8 oz Cream Cheese Softened1/2 cup Sour Cream Can substitute with Greek yogurt or mayonnaise1 tsp Thyme1 tsp Oregano1 tsp Basil1 tsp Rosemary1 tsp Black Pepper1 tsp Garlic Powder1/2 tsp Salt Adjust according to serving crackers1/2 tsp Red Pepper/Chili Flakes1 cup Cheddar or Other Cheese (Freshly Grated) Avoid mozzarella; consider substitutionsFor the Fillings1/2 cup Roasted Peppers (Finely Chopped) Jarred varieties can be used1/2 cup Salami (Finely Chopped) For a meatless option, use grated parmesan1/4 cup Green Olives (Finely Chopped)1/4 cup Green Onion (Minced)For the Toppings1/4 cup Sun Dried Tomato Strips (with Oil) Utilize infused oil for flavor1/4 cup Fresh Parsley or Chives (Finely Chopped) For garnish1 box Crackers (e.g., Jatz) Essential for serving Equipment Loaf panMixing bowlSpatula Method InstructionsPrepare the loaf pan by lightly spraying it with cooking oil and lining it with cling wrap, leaving excess wrap over the edges.In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Mix in thyme, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and red pepper flakes, then add cheddar and combine thoroughly.Fold in roasted peppers, salami, green olives, and green onion until evenly distributed.Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally up to a week.Turn the chilled cheese log onto a platter, remove cling wrap, and let it warm slightly. Top with sun-dried tomatoes and drizzle with oil, garnishing with parsley or chives.Serve the cheese log with an assortment of crackers for scooping. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 6gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg NotesThis festive appetizer can be customized with your favorite ingredients, allowing for creativity and personal flavors. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!