Holiday Olive and Pepper Cheese Log
This vibrant and delicious cheese log is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday appetizer table. Packed with cream cheese, flavorful olives, sweet peppers, and fresh herbs, it’s a savory crowd-pleaser that’s both beautiful and easy to prepare. Serve it with crackers or crostini for a show-stopping starter.
Prep Time:
Prep: 15 minutes
Chill (optional): 1 hour
Total: 15–75 minutes
Ingredients:
2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup green olives, chopped
1/2 cup Kalamata or black olives, chopped
1/2 cup roasted red peppers or pimentos, finely diced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1–2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (plus sprigs for garnish)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Crackers or crostini, for serving
Instructions:
Mix the Base:
In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Mix until well blended using a hand mixer or spatula.
Add the Flavor:
Fold in chopped olives, diced peppers, parsley, chopped rosemary, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Shape the Log:
Transfer the mixture to a sheet of plastic wrap. Shape into a log or rectangular block. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up (optional, but helpful for clean edges).
Decorate:
Unwrap the cheese log and place it on a serving board. Press additional chopped olives, peppers, and herbs onto the outside for a festive look. Garnish with rosemary sprigs.
Serve:
Serve chilled or at room temperature with crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette.
Tips for Success
Use quality ingredients: Since this is a no-cook dish, the flavor comes from the freshness and quality of your ingredients—use good cheese and briny olives.
Let it soften slightly before serving: If chilled, let the cheese log sit out for about 10–15 minutes before serving for easier spreading.
Double the batch: It’s easy to scale this recipe for larger gatherings. Just double the ingredients and make two smaller logs.
Use gloves when shaping: It keeps the cheese mixture from sticking to your hands and helps with a cleaner finish.
Flavor Variations
Mediterranean Twist:
Add sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta, and a bit of lemon zest.
Spicy Kick:
Mix in a dash of crushed red pepper or finely chopped jalapeños.
Herb Delight:
Use a blend of fresh dill, basil, and thyme for an herbal variation.
Nutty Crunch:
Roll the log in chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for texture.
Sweet & Savory:
Add a touch of honey and dried cranberries for a sweet contrast.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Just keep it tightly wrapped in the fridge.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: It’s not recommended—cream cheese can become grainy after freezing and thawing.
Q: What if I don’t like olives?
A: You can substitute olives with chopped artichoke hearts, sundried tomatoes, or caramelized onions for a similar savory kick.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free or vegan?
A: Absolutely! Use a plant-based cream cheese and vegan shredded cheese alternative.
Nutrition Estimate (per serving, based on 10 servings)
Note: Actual values will vary based on exact ingredients and portion size.
Calories: ~220
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 380mg
Carbohydrates: 3g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 5g
Conclusion
This Holiday Olive and Pepper Cheese Log is the perfect make-ahead appetizer that’s festive, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re hosting a party, contributing to a potluck, or simply enjoying a quiet holiday evening, this savory log will impress your guests and bring vibrant flavor to your table.
Serve it with a variety of crackers or fresh veggies—and don’t be surprised when everyone asks for the recipe!