If you’re searching for a snack that effortlessly combines creamy richness with a zesty olive burst, this Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives Recipe will quickly become your go-to appetizer. It’s the perfect balance of smooth, tangy cream cheese hugging savory green olives, enhanced by just the right hint of garlic and spice. Whether it’s for a casual get-together or a festive occasion, these bite-sized delights bring bold flavor and impressive sophistication without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, where every ingredient plays a crucial role in flavor, texture, and presentation. These essentials come together to create a harmonious bite you’ll want to keep coming back to.
- Cream cheese (113 grams or 4 oz): Softened to easily envelop each olive with its luscious texture.
- Green olives (20, pitted): The star of the show, providing a briny, tangy pop in every bite.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle savory depth without overpowering the cream cheese.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/8 teaspoon, optional): A little kick for those who love a gentle spicy undertone.
- Chopped nuts or crushed rice crackers (1/3 cup, optional): For a delightful crunch and extra flavor on the outside.
How to Make Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Olives
Begin by draining your green olives and patting them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key here so the cream cheese mixture clings beautifully rather than slipping off. This simple prep ensures a neater final presentation and better texture.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, soften the cream cheese until smooth, then stir in garlic powder and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re opting for a touch of heat. This blend spices up the cream cheese just enough to complement the olive’s natural tang, turning each bite into a flavor-packed experience.
Step 3: Wrap the Olives
Scoop roughly one teaspoon of your cream cheese mixture and gently flatten it to form a small disc. Place an olive in the center, then carefully mold the cream cheese around it, fully encasing the olive. This step takes a bit of gentle hands-on love, but it’s fun and the result is totally worth it.
Step 4: Add a Crunchy Coating
Optionally, roll each wrapped olive in your choice of chopped nuts or crushed rice crackers. This adds a wonderful textural contrast—a crunchy outer layer that complements the smooth creaminess inside. It’s a touch that elevates the recipe into a snack that feels indulgent and satisfying.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Place the wrapped olives on a tray and chill them in your fridge for about 30 minutes. This chilling step helps the cream cheese set, making them easier to handle and enhancing the overall flavor as the ingredients meld together deliciously.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little fresh chopped parsley or chives on top right before serving to add a pop of color and subtle freshness. A light drizzle of olive oil or a few cracked peppercorns can also enhance their appearance and flavor for an elegant touch.
Side Dishes
These creamy olive bites pair wonderfully with crispy crackers, crusty bread slices, or an assortment of fresh vegetables. They also shine on a charcuterie board alongside cured meats, cheeses, and fresh fruit, making them versatile enough to suit various occasions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, skewer two or three of the cream cheese wrapped olives on decorative toothpicks and arrange them on a platter for easy, mess-free snacking. Alternatively, serve them in colorful mini muffin liners or nestle them in small lettuce cups to add a festive flair to your appetizer table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover wrapped olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and creamy for up to three days, making them a fantastic make-ahead option to save time on party days.
Freezing
While freezing isn’t recommended for this particular recipe because the texture of cream cheese can change and become grainy upon thawing, you can prepare the cream cheese mixture ahead and keep it frozen separately. Just thaw, mix again, and assemble with fresh olives when ready.
Reheating
These olives are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If needed, take them out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to let them soften slightly and allow the flavors to truly shine.
FAQs
Can I use black olives instead of green olives?
Absolutely! Black olives bring a sweeter, milder flavor compared to green ones, creating a different but equally delicious experience with the cream cheese wrapper.
What kind of nuts work best for the coating?
Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds are excellent choices, each offering a unique crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy center.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, though keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly from the original recipe.
Can I add herbs or spices to the cream cheese?
Definitely! Fresh herbs like dill or chives, or spices such as smoked paprika, can add extra layers of flavor. Experimenting with these additions can make the recipe your own.
How far in advance can I prepare this recipe?
You can assemble the olives a day ahead and keep them refrigerated. Just bring them to room temperature before serving for best taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re eager to impress with minimal effort, this Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives Recipe is your secret weapon. It’s simple, elegant, and utterly addictive. Once you try it, you’ll understand why these little bites make every gathering feel special. Go ahead and treat yourself and your guests to this creamy, zesty delight—you won’t regret it!
Print
Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make cream cheese wrapped olives are perfect bite-sized appetizers. Softened cream cheese is seasoned with garlic powder and optional crushed red pepper flakes, then wrapped around pitted green olives. For added texture, the olives can be rolled in crushed nuts or rice crackers before chilling. These savory treats are great for parties or snacking.
Ingredients
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 113 grams (4 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Olives
- 20 green olives, pitted
Coating (Optional)
- 1/3 cup chopped nuts or crushed rice crackers
Instructions
- Drain Olives: Drain and pat the green olives dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture and help the cream cheese adhere better.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with garlic powder and crushed red pepper flakes if using, until well combined and smooth.
- Wrap Olives: Scoop about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture, flatten it slightly with your fingers, then wrap it around a single olive ensuring it is fully enclosed.
- Coat (Optional): Roll the cream cheese-wrapped olives in crushed rice crackers or chopped nuts to add a crunchy exterior.
- Chill: Place the wrapped olives in the refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes to set before serving.
Notes
- You can experiment with different types of olives, such as black or stuffed olives, depending on preference.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture.
- Serve chilled to maintain the firm texture of the cream cheese coating.
- These appetizers can be prepared a few hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator covered tightly.
