Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives are a simple, flavorful appetizer that combines the tangy richness of cream cheese with the briny, savory flavor of olives. The olives are stuffed or wrapped with a creamy layer of softened cream cheese, often seasoned with herbs, garlic, or spices to enhance the flavor. These bite-sized treats are creamy, salty, and utterly irresistible, making them perfect for snacking or as part of an appetizer spread.
I first made Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives when I wanted something quick and savory for a gathering, and they turned out to be a big hit. The creamy texture of the cheese perfectly complements the briny olives, and the added seasonings gave each bite a punch of flavor. They’re incredibly easy to make, but they look and taste like something special.
What’s great about Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives is how customizable they are. You can use green or black olives, add your favorite herbs like dill or thyme, or even stuff them with nuts or anchovies for extra flavor. They’re perfect for parties, holidays, or just as a savory snack anytime. Whether served alone or with crackers, these olives are a sure-fire crowd-pleaser!
Perfect for:
- Appetizer platters
- Mocktail parties
- Holiday gatherings
- Tapas nights
- Cheese lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why these Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives will be your new go-to appetizer:
- Perfect Flavor Balance: The tangy cream cheese complements the salty olives, while the prosciutto adds savory depth.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with just a few ingredients, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
- Quick to Prepare: With only a few steps, these olives are easy to whip up in no time.
- Customizable: Choose your favorite type of olives or wrap them in your preferred cured meat.
- Savory Delight: The combination of cream cheese and olives is a rich, savory snack that will keep guests coming back for more.
- Impressive Presentation: These bite-sized treats look gourmet on a platter, adding sophistication to your appetizer spread.
- Great for Parties: They’re small, portable, and easy to serve at casual or formal events.
- Ideal for Make-Ahead Snacking: Prepare them ahead of time and store in the fridge for a stress-free appetizer.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether your guests are olive lovers or not, this appetizer will surely win them over.
- Perfectly Balanced Bites: Each bite is a perfect balance of creamy, salty, and savory flavors.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: None
- Servings: 20 pieces
- Calories per serving: Approximately 50-60 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 1g, Fat: 5g
Ingredients
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Olives:
- 20 green or black olives, pitted
- 10 slices prosciutto or ham, halved
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme)
- Crushed black pepper
Ingredient Highlights
- Cream Cheese: The rich, creamy filling adds a smooth texture and tangy flavor that complements the olives.
- Olives: Choose either green or black olives depending on your taste preference—both offer a burst of flavor.
- Prosciutto: A delicate, savory wrapper that enhances the overall taste with a slight crisp when served chilled.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
- Mix Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the cream cheese mixture and adjust seasoning if needed.
Assemble the Olives:
- Stuff the Olives: Using a small spoon or a piping bag, carefully stuff each olive with the cream cheese mixture.
- Wrap with Prosciutto: Take a half slice of prosciutto or ham and wrap it around each stuffed olive, securing it in place.
- Chill (Optional): For best results, chill the olives in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before serving to firm up the cream cheese.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs or cracked black pepper if desired. Arrange on a serving platter and serve chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Here are 9 serving suggestions for Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives:
- As Party Appetizers: Serve these olives as a party snack alongside other finger foods like cheese or crackers.
- On Charcuterie Boards: Add to your cheese board for an extra layer of savory goodness.
- With Tapas: Serve alongside other Spanish tapas dishes like chorizo or marinated anchovies.
- At Holiday Gatherings: These olives are the perfect addition to any holiday appetizer spread.
- For Game Day: Great for snacking during a football game or any sporting event.
- As a Snack: Enjoy as a quick, savory snack between meals or while entertaining.
- With Mocktail Hour: Serve them with a variety of dips and sauces for dipping during happy hour.
- For Picnic Baskets: Pack them for a fun and easy outdoor snack.
- As a Gift: Create a jar of these stuffed olives to give as a unique homemade gift.
Additional Tips
- Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is soft and at room temperature for easy spreading and smoother texture.
- Season the Cream Cheese: Add a pinch of garlic powder, dried herbs, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor of the cream cheese mixture.
- Try Different Olive Varieties: Experiment with different types of olives like Kalamata, green, or black for varied taste and appearance.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the wrapped olives for at least 30 minutes to let the cream cheese firm up, making them easier to handle.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme on top for extra freshness and color.
- Add Nuts for Crunch: Roll the cream cheese-wrapped olives in crushed nuts like pistachios or almonds for a satisfying crunch.
- Use Flavored Cream Cheese: Consider using flavored cream cheese, like chive or garden vegetable, to give your olives a unique twist.
- Pair with Crackers: Serve your cream cheese-wrapped olives on a platter with an assortment of crackers for a great appetizer spread.
- Wrap in Prosciutto: For a savory variation, wrap the cream cheese-filled olives in a slice of prosciutto or ham for added richness.
- Experiment with Spice: Add a little heat by mixing in finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese for a spicy kick.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
- Stuff with Almonds: For extra crunch, stuff the olives with roasted almonds before adding the cream cheese.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based wrap for a vegan-friendly option.
- Cheese Stuffed Olives: Substitute the cream cheese with goat cheese or blue cheese for a different flavor.
- Beef Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap the stuffed olives in crispy beef bacon for a smoky, indulgent variation.
Special Equipment
- Piping Bag or Spoon: For easily stuffing the olives with the cream cheese filling.
- Knife or Scissors: For slicing the prosciutto or ham into the correct sizes for wrapping.
- Serving Platter: To present the stuffed olives in an elegant manner.
FAQ Section
- Can I use canned olives instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned olives, but be sure to drain and pat them dry before stuffing. - How long can I store these in the fridge?
These can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. - Can I freeze these olives?
It’s not recommended to freeze these as the cream cheese may change texture upon thawing. - Can I skip the prosciutto?
Yes, you can omit the prosciutto and simply serve the stuffed olives as a vegetarian option. - Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Absolutely! Flavored cream cheese like garlic and herb or chive would add extra flavor. - What’s the best way to serve these?
Serve them chilled or at room temperature on a platter with mocktail napkins for easy snacking. - Can I use olives with pits?
It’s easier to work with pitted olives, but you can remove the pits yourself if you prefer. - How do I keep the prosciutto from falling off?
Wrap the prosciutto snugly around the olive, and if necessary, secure it with a toothpick. - Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the fridge. - What can I serve with these olives?
Pair with other appetizers like cheese, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives are a simple yet delightful appetizer that combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the briny, tangy bite of olives. The olives are usually stuffed with a little cream cheese and then wrapped in a slice of prosciutto or bacon for added flavor and texture. You can also sprinkle some herbs like garlic, rosemary, or chives on top to enhance the taste. These little bites are perfect for snacking, as a party appetizer, or as a side dish for a charcuterie board.
What makes Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives so special is the balance of flavors—the creamy cheese perfectly complements the salty, savory olives, and the prosciutto or bacon adds a smoky, crunchy element that takes the dish to the next level. It’s a bite-sized treat that’s packed with flavor in every mouthful.
I can’t wait to see how your Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives turn out! Snap a photo and share it on Instagram, tagging me so I can admire your delicious creation. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made them your own—I’d love to hear about your personal twist on this savory, creamy appetizer!