Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives

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When you’re looking for a party snack that’s effortlessly elegant yet shockingly easy to make, these Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives are your golden ticket. Each bite is a creamy, briny, savory surprise — the perfect combination of soft cheese and tangy green olives wrapped in a crunchy nut coating. They’re no-bake, finger-friendly, and disappear in minutes at any gathering.

These little flavor bombs have all the makings of a crowd-pleaser. Creamy cheese, bold olives, and a pop of crunch come together in bite-sized harmony. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party or need a quick appetizer idea, this is a must-try recipe that keeps things simple yet satisfying.

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Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives Recipe

This recipe checks all the right boxes: it’s fast, fuss-free, and packed with flavor. You only need a few ingredients, there’s no cooking involved, and it can be prepped ahead of time. The salty olive core adds just the right zing to balance the creamy coating, making it a standout finger food for holidays, parties, or even a movie night.

Plus, the presentation is effortlessly classy. Stick a toothpick in each one and you’ve got yourself a sophisticated snack in under 20 minutes.

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What Kind of Olives Should I Use?

The best olives for this recipe are large green olives, preferably pimento-stuffed. Their bold, briny flavor cuts through the richness of the cream cheese beautifully. You can also use garlic-stuffed or jalapeño-stuffed olives if you want a little heat or extra flavor.

Make sure to pat the olives dry before wrapping to keep the cheese from sliding off. And if you’re not into green olives, black olives can be used as a milder alternative, though they won’t have quite the same sharp contrast.

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Ingredients for the Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives

This recipe is all about the balance of texture and flavor, and each ingredient plays an important role:

• Cream Cheese: The creamy base that wraps around each olive. Use full-fat for the best texture and taste.
• Large Green Olives (pimento-stuffed): The tangy, salty core that contrasts beautifully with the creamy coating.
• Chopped Nuts (like pecans or walnuts): Rolled on the outside for a nutty crunch and visual appeal.
• Garlic Powder or Onion Powder (optional): For extra depth of flavor in the cheese mixture.

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How To Make the Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives

Step 1: Dry the Olives

Start by draining and thoroughly patting your olives dry with a paper towel. This is important so the cream cheese sticks properly.

Step 2: Soften and Season the Cream Cheese

Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier handling. If you’d like, mix in garlic or onion powder to give it more flavor.

Step 3: Wrap the Olives

Take about a teaspoon of cream cheese and flatten it in your palm. Place an olive in the center and mold the cheese around it until it’s completely covered.

Step 4: Roll in Chopped Nuts

Roll each cheese-covered olive in a shallow bowl of finely chopped nuts, pressing lightly to coat evenly.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Place the finished bites on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Insert toothpicks for easy grabbing if desired.

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Serving and Storing Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives

This recipe yields about 20 to 24 bites, depending on how large your olives are. It’s perfect for feeding a small crowd or as part of a larger appetizer spread.

To store, place the bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They taste even better after the flavors meld for a few hours, so feel free to make them ahead of time.

Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cream cheese can become grainy once thawed.

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What to Serve With Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives

Charcuterie Boards

Add these bites to a beautiful cheese and meat board. Their creamy texture balances well with cured meats like prosciutto or salami.

Crackers and Dips

Serve alongside crackers, hummus, or tzatziki to give guests a variety of snackable textures and flavors.

Dry White Wine or Sparkling Water

A glass of crisp white wine or even a sparkling non-alcoholic beverage pairs well with the salty, creamy profile.

Roasted Nuts

Include a small bowl of roasted nuts to enhance the nutty coating of the olives.

Fresh Vegetables

Cut carrots, celery, or cucumber add a refreshing crunch that complements the creaminess of the bites.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives ahead of time?
Yes, and they actually taste better when made in advance. Chill them for at least 30 minutes or up to 3 days before serving.

Can I use black olives instead of green?
Absolutely. Black olives offer a milder flavor but still pair nicely with cream cheese. Just be sure they’re large enough to wrap.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and ensure your nuts are not processed with dairy products.

What if I don’t like nuts?
You can roll the cream cheese-wrapped olives in chopped herbs like parsley, or even crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a different texture.

Where can I find more easy party appetizers like this?
Check out our Appetizer Recipe Collection for more delicious bites that are perfect for any gathering.

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