Christmas Appetiser Italian Cheese Loaf (Print-Friendly Version)
Delight in this festive holiday Italian cheese loaf, perfect for Christmas gatherings or appetizer spreads. Packed with salami, herbs, and sun-dried tomato, it delivers savory flavor in every bite—one to keep handy.
# Ingredients You’ll Need:
→ Dairy
01 -
1 pound cream cheese, softened
02 -
1/3 cup sour cream
03 -
2 cups cheddar cheese or similar, freshly grated
→ Herbs and Seasonings
04 -
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
05 -
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
06 -
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
07 -
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
08 -
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
09 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
10 -
1 teaspoon salt
11 -
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
12 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
→ Vegetables and Antipasto
13 -
9 ounces roasted peppers, drained and finely chopped
14 -
3/4 cup green olives, finely chopped
15 -
1/3 cup green onions, finely minced
16 -
7 ounces sun-dried tomato strips in oil, roughly chopped
→ Meat
17 -
6 ounces salami, finely chopped
→ Finishing Touch
18 -
Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
# How to Make It:
01 -
Lightly coat a loaf pan with oil spray and fully line it with plastic wrap, leaving overhang on all sides.
02 -
In a large bowl, blend together softened cream cheese, sour cream, grated cheddar, dried herbs, spices, and salt until completely smooth.
03 -
Fold in roasted peppers, salami, green olives, green onions, sun-dried tomatoes in oil, and parsley, ensuring an even distribution throughout the mixture. Taste and adjust salt if desired.
04 -
Transfer the cheese mixture into the lined loaf pan, smoothing and pressing it firmly to remove air pockets. For a taller shape, use a smaller pan. Cover tightly with the excess plastic wrap.
05 -
Refrigerate the loaf in the pan for at least 4 hours, or up to 1 week, to allow flavors to meld and the loaf to firm up.
06 -
Invert the pan onto a serving platter and carefully peel away the plastic wrap. Spoon additional sun-dried tomato and a drizzle of its oil over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and rosemary sprigs for a festive finish.
07 -
Serve closer to room temperature for optimal flavor and texture alongside crackers or toasted bread. Loaf is soft enough for spreading or scooping directly with crackers.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
For best flavor, allow the cheese loaf to soften slightly at room temperature before serving.
02 -
Refrigeration time can be extended for up to one week if kept covered.
03 -
Adjust the amount of salt and red pepper flakes to suit accompanying crackers or bread.