Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites

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Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites combines the creaminess of cheese with the sweet and spicy kick of pepper jelly. This dish is perfect for gatherings, offering a delightful mix of flavors that is sure to please your guests.

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Why You’ll Love This Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites

This appetizer is simple to prepare and requires only a few ingredients. The combination of creamy cream cheese and sweet pepper jelly creates a delicious flavor contrast. Plus, using mini phyllo shells adds a delightful crunch to each bite. This dish is not just tasty but also visually appealing, making it an excellent choice for parties, holidays, or game day.

Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip

Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites

An easy appetizer that combines the creaminess of cheese with the sweet and spicy kick of pepper jelly, all served in crispy mini phyllo shells.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings: 15 bites
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 80
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the bites
  • 1 box mini phyllo shells (15-count)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened Make sure to soften before using
  • 1/4 cup red pepper jelly For a spicier option, consider using hot pepper jelly.
  • to taste Fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion Optional, for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Arrange the phyllo shells on a baking sheet.
  3. Fill each shell with about 1 teaspoon of cream cheese.
  4. Top each with about 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly.
Baking
  1. Bake for 5–7 minutes or until the shells are crisp and the cream cheese is warmed.
  2. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh thyme or green onion if using.
  3. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 80kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 100mgSugar: 2g

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to three days, but the phyllo shells may lose their crispness. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

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How to Make Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites

Ingredients:

  • 1 box (15-count) mini phyllo shells
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup red pepper jelly
  • Fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Arrange the phyllo shells on a baking sheet.
  3. Fill each shell with about 1 teaspoon of cream cheese.
  4. Top each with about 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly.
  5. Bake for 5–7 minutes or until the shells are crisp and the cream cheese is warmed.
  6. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh thyme or green onion, if using.
  7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip recipe

How to Serve Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites

Serve these delightful bites on a platter for your guests to enjoy. They make a stunning addition to any appetizer table. Pair them with a sparkling beverage or grape juice to keep the flavors balanced. You can also offer them as part of a larger spread, accompanied by fresh vegetables or fruits.

How to Store Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to three days. However, the phyllo shells may lose their crispness after a day. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed.

Tips to Make Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites Perfect

  • Make sure to soften the cream cheese before using. It helps to blend smoothly with the jelly.
  • For a spicier kick, look for hot pepper jelly instead of sweet.
  • If mini phyllo shells are not available, you can use crackers or toasted baguette slices as an alternative.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:

  • Add a sprinkle of grated cheddar cheese on top of the cream cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Mix chopped nuts with the cream cheese for a crunchy texture.
  • Substitute the red pepper jelly with other fruit jellies, such as apricot or fig.

Pro Tips for Success

  • Keep an eye on the bites while they are baking to prevent overcooking.
  • Experiment with different garnishes, such as diced bell peppers or cilantro, for a touch of color and flavor.
  • Preparing the cream cheese mixture a day in advance can save time on the day of serving.

FAQs

Can I make these bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese filling and fill the shells ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Just don’t bake them until you are close to serving.

Is there a gluten-free option for the phyllo shells?

Yes, you can find gluten-free phyllo shells in many grocery stores. Alternatively, use fresh vegetables like cucumber slices as a base for the cream cheese and jelly for a low-carb option.

Can I freeze the assembled bites?

It’s not advisable to freeze the assembled bites as the texture of the phyllo shells may change when thawed. However, you can prepare and freeze just the phyllo shells. Bake them from frozen while allowing extra baking time.

Final Thoughts

Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites is an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish. Its sweet and spicy flavors, paired with a creamy texture, make it a must-try recipe for your next gathering. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can present an appetizer that everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking and impress your guests!