Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives

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Soft, savory, and irresistibly poppable—these Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives are the perfect fusion of tangy brine and creamy indulgence. Whether you’re entertaining guests, preparing a holiday platter, or just in the mood for a rich yet simple snack, these bite-sized treats pack a flavorful punch. The smooth cream cheese hugs each olive like a velvety blanket, and the crunchy chopped nuts coating adds an extra layer of texture that makes them even more addictive.

Perfect for appetizers, party trays, or midday snacks, this recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum impact. The combination of cream cheese and green olives offers a delightful contrast of flavors—salty, creamy, slightly tangy, and crunchy all in one bite. You won’t need an oven, a stovetop, or much time at all to whip up this crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives Recipe

• No-Cook & Quick: Just a few ingredients and minutes of your time.
• Perfect for Entertaining: A chic and tasty party appetizer.
• Customizable: Swap nuts or cheese types based on your preference.
• Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: Naturally low in carbs and big on flavor.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring these creamy bites to life, you’ll only need a handful of kitchen tools. A mixing bowl helps you combine and soften the cream cheese to the right consistency. A small spoon or spatula will help spread and wrap the cheese around each olive evenly. Toothpicks or cocktail sticks are essential for serving and help keep fingers clean. Finally, a chopping board and sharp knife (or food processor) will be needed to finely chop the nuts for rolling. Using fresh, evenly chopped nuts ensures a consistent texture and visual appeal.

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Preparation Tips

Start with softened cream cheese—it’s much easier to work with than cold, straight-from-the-fridge cheese. Pat the olives dry before wrapping to help the cheese adhere better. Roll the cheese-covered olives gently in chopped nuts, applying slight pressure so the nuts stick well. Chill the wrapped olives for at least 15–30 minutes before serving. This not only firms them up but also allows the flavors to meld together. For extra flair, consider adding herbs like dill or chives into the cream cheese before wrapping.

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Ingredients for this Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives Recipe

• 20–25 green olives (pimento-stuffed or plain)
• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds work best)
• Optional: 1 tsp garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor
• Optional: 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (such as dill, chives, or parsley)
• Toothpicks or cocktail sticks (for serving)

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Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Begin by softening the cream cheese. Leave it at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes or microwave it for 10–15 seconds until spreadable. While waiting, drain and pat the olives dry with a paper towel. This helps the cheese stick better. Finely chop the nuts of your choice and spread them out on a plate.

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Step 2: Season the Cream Cheese

Transfer the softened cream cheese into a mixing bowl. If you’re using any seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs, mix them into the cheese now for added depth of flavor. Blend well until smooth and evenly seasoned.

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Step 3: Wrap Each Olive

Using a small spoon or clean hands, scoop a small portion of the cream cheese mixture and flatten it slightly. Place one olive in the center and gently mold the cheese around it until the olive is fully enclosed in a smooth ball. Repeat this process for each olive.

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Step 4: Roll in Chopped Nuts

Roll each cheese-covered olive in the chopped nuts, pressing lightly so the nuts adhere evenly to the surface. You can roll them multiple times to ensure complete coating. This step adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal to each bite.

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Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Place the wrapped and coated olives on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 15–30 minutes to firm up the texture and enhance flavor. Insert a toothpick into each ball for easy serving.

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Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once chilled, serve your Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives as a delicious appetizer or party snack. They pair beautifully with wine, cocktails, or charcuterie boards. These can also be made a day in advance, making them ideal for event prep.

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Notes

For the best results, use high-quality olives and full-fat cream cheese. The creaminess of full-fat cheese provides better texture and flavor. You can prepare these ahead of time and store them in the fridge, making them a convenient make-ahead appetizer. To make them more festive, consider using flavored cream cheese or adding a touch of paprika or chili flakes for a spicy kick.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using cold cream cheese: It’s hard to spread and wrap around olives.
• Not drying the olives: Extra moisture prevents the cheese from sticking properly.
• Chopping nuts too coarsely: Large chunks won’t adhere well to the cheese coating.
• Skipping chill time: The balls may fall apart if not set in the fridge.
• Over-seasoning: The olives are already salty; add extra salt sparingly.

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Storage Instructions

Store Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them chilled until ready to serve to maintain their shape and flavor. Do not freeze, as the texture of the cream cheese and nuts will degrade. For best freshness, place parchment paper between layers if stacking.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving, approx. 2 pieces)

• Calories: 110
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Cholesterol: 15mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of olives should I use?

Green olives are the best choice, especially pimento-stuffed for added flavor, but kalamata or black olives work too.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, they can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the fridge.

What nuts are best for coating?

Walnuts, pecans, and almonds work well. Make sure they are finely chopped.

Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Absolutely! Try chive, garlic, or jalapeño cream cheese for a twist.

Are these keto-friendly?

Yes, they are low in carbs and high in fat, making them perfect for keto diets.

How do I keep them from sticking together?

Chill them on a parchment-lined tray and store with layers separated.

Can I make them without nuts?

Yes, roll them in chopped herbs, crushed seeds, or even grated cheese as a nut-free alternative.

What drinks pair well with these?

White wine, dry martinis, or sparkling water with lemon make great companions.

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Conclusion

Cream Cheese Wrapped Olives are a delightful balance of salty, creamy, and crunchy—perfect for any gathering or solo snack moment. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always impressive, they’re a must-have for your appetizer playbook. Whether you’re entertaining or just treating yourself, these savory bites are a guaranteed hit.

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