Christmas Appetiser | Easy Italian Cheese Log Recipe

It’s Christmas Eve, the air smells like pine and cinnamon, and your kitchen hums with warmth. You want something festive yet easy a Christmas appetiser that looks as good as it tastes. This Italian Cheese Log does exactly that. Creamy, colorful, and full of savory joy, it’s the kind of dish that steals the spotlight on every grazing board.

Why This Christmas Appetiser Belongs on Your Table

This Christmas appetiser shines because it combines all the flavors of a classic Italian antipasto platter in one easy-to-slice log. You get the smoky sweetness of roasted peppers, the saltiness of salami, and the tang of sun-dried tomatoes all wrapped up in creamy, herbed cheese. It’s a make-ahead miracle that adds color and charm to your spread. Plus, it travels beautifully, making it perfect for parties and potlucks alike.

What Makes This Cheese Log So Special

What sets this appetiser apart is the mix of textures. The cream cheese base turns silky when blended with sour cream, while bits of roasted pepper and olives add tiny bursts of flavor in every bite. It’s customizable, too use hot salami for extra spice, or skip the meat and stir in parmesan for a vegetarian twist. Affordable ingredients, minimal prep, and make-ahead convenience make it a practical yet elegant holiday choice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The Creamy Base

• 500g cream cheese for that rich, smooth texture
• 1/3 cup sour cream, yogurt, or mayo to lighten it
• 2 cups freshly grated cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyere for a deep, melty flavor

The Flavor Builders

Add warmth with 1/2 tsp each of thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary, and black pepper (or 1 tsp Italian seasoning). Stir in 1 tsp each of garlic powder, salt, and red pepper flakes for just the right kick.

The Color and Texture Boosters

Finely chopped roasted peppers, salami, green olives, green onions, and sun-dried tomatoes bring layers of flavor, saltiness, and brightness. Each bite feels like a mini antipasto board.

Finishing Touches

Chopped parsley or chives add freshness. Garnish with rosemary sprigs, then serve with your favorite crackers for easy dipping and scooping.

How to Make the Italian Cheese Log

Step 1 – Prepare Your Pan

Line a loaf pan with cling wrap and lightly grease it so the cheese doesn’t stick later. This makes unmolding clean and easy.

Step 2 – Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix all the cheese log ingredients until smooth. Taste and adjust the salt or spice to your liking. You want every scoop to taste balanced and bright.

Step 3 – Shape and Chill

Spoon the mixture into the pan, pressing firmly to remove air pockets. Smooth the top, cover, and chill for at least 4 hours or up to one week. The flavors meld beautifully as it rests.

Step 4 – Unmold and Decorate

Lift the cheese log from the pan, unwrap, and place it on a serving platter. Spoon over sun-dried tomatoes and a drizzle of their oil. Sprinkle chopped parsley and tuck in rosemary sprigs for a festive touch. Let it come to room temperature before serving.

Step 5 – Serve and Enjoy

Serve it alongside crisp crackers or breadsticks. It also pairs perfectly with Marinated Roasted Bell Peppers for an antipasto-style Christmas platter. The colors red, green, and golden make it feel like a centerpiece all on its own.

Tips, Variations, and Make-Ahead Secrets

You can swap sour cream for yogurt or mayo if you prefer. Always use freshly grated cheese for a creamier texture. Adjust the spice level with mild or hot salami, or go vegetarian by omitting meat and adding 1/2 cup grated parmesan. For extra flavor, try mix-ins like chopped artichokes, capers, or pickled vegetables. The best part? You can make this up to a week in advance and keep it chilled — perfect for stress-free entertaining.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

This cheese log loves company. Serve it with crackers, crispbread, or thin baguette slices. For drinks, pair with a chilled prosecco or a light rosé. You can also feature it on a grazing board next to nuts, grapes, and cured meats. Add Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes, Carrots and Zucchini as a hearty Christmas side and finish with Peppermint Bark Brownies for a sweet Christmas party treat.

Quick Nutrition Overview

Each serving of this Christmas appetiser gives about 278 calories, with 9g of protein and 24g of fat. It’s rich in calcium and vitamin C, offering a hearty, satisfying bite that feels indulgent without being heavy. Enjoy it mindfully a little goes a long way.

FAQs About This Christmas Appetiser

More Such Recipes

• Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup for your holiday starter course
• Mini Sweet Potato Pies to complement your Christmas dinner ideas
• Stuffed Zucchini Boats as a low-carb Christmas appetizer alternative
• Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars with festive flair

Final Thoughts

This Christmas appetiser brings everything you want in a holiday dish rich flavor, easy prep, and a touch of festive flair. Whether you serve it at a family dinner or pack it for a friend’s party, it always wins hearts. So this year, skip the stress and enjoy this creamy Italian Cheese Log that looks beautiful, tastes amazing, and keeps your Christmas table full of color and joy. For more inspiration and festive ideas, visit Kai Recipes on Pinterest or connect on Facebook.

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