Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Bites

INTRODUCTION

Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites are a delightful treat. They are easy to make and perfect for parties or gatherings. This dish combines the creaminess of cream cheese with the sweet and spicy flavor of pepper jelly. The mini phyllo shells provide a flaky and crunchy base that makes each bite enjoyable.

This appetizer is a crowd-pleaser. Guests will love the taste, and you will love how simple it is to prepare. Serve them warm or at room temperature, and watch everyone come back for more!

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love this recipe for many reasons. First, it takes very little time to prepare. You can make these bites in under 30 minutes. They are perfect when you need a quick dish to serve.

Second, the flavors of cream cheese and red pepper jelly blend wonderfully. The creaminess of the cheese with the sweet and tangy jelly creates a delightful contrast. It’s a flavor combination that is sure to impress your guests.

Third, these bites are versatile. You can serve them at various events, such as birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or casual get-togethers. They are easy to eat, making them a great choice for social occasions.

Lastly, you can customize them easily. You can add different herbs or spices to change the flavor. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

HOW TO MAKE Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites

Making Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites is simple. With just a few steps, you can have a delicious appetizer ready to serve.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Before you start, gather your equipment. You will need:

• An oven
• A baking sheet
• A mixing bowl
• A spoon or small spatula

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 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). This will help the bites cook evenly.
2. Arrange the phyllo shells on a baking sheet. Make sure they are not touching each other. This lets the heat circulate.
3. Fill each shell with about 1 teaspoon of cream cheese. Use a spoon to scoop the cream cheese into the phyllo shells.
4. Top each with about 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly. Spoon the jelly over the cream cheese in each shell.
5. Bake for 5–7 minutes or until the shells are crisp and the cream cheese is warmed. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
6. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh thyme or green onion, if using. Sprinkle your choice of garnish for added flavor.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature. Place on a serving platter and let everyone dig in!

 

 

HOW TO SERVE Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites

These bites are best served warm, but they are also tasty at room temperature. You can arrange them nicely on a serving platter for your guests. Consider placing some extra red pepper jelly in a small dish for dipping. This way, guests can add more jelly if they want.

Another idea is to serve them alongside a fresh salad or a vegetable platter. This can create a colorful and appealing spread, enhancing the overall presentation.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites

If you have leftovers, you can store them easily. Place any uneaten bites in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the bites before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you are ready to serve them, bake them directly from the freezer. Just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

These bites work well at many events. You can serve them as an appetizer at a dinner party or as snacks for game day. They also make a great addition to a holiday buffet. Pair them with drinks like wine, beer, or cocktails.

You can also use them for casual gatherings, family get-togethers, or picnics. Their small size makes them easy to share.

VARIATIONS

Feel free to switch things up with this recipe. Here are a few ideas for variations:

• Herbed Cream Cheese: Mix in some fresh herbs like basil or dill into your cream cheese for added flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper to the cream cheese for more heat.
• Different Jellies: Try using different types of jelly flavors, such as cranberry or peach, for unique tastes.
• Toppings: Instead of thyme or green onion, consider adding crispy bacon bits or pecan pieces for extra crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular cheese instead of cream cheese?
Yes, you can use other types of cheese, but cream cheese gives that rich creaminess that pairs well with pepper jelly.

2. How long can I keep these bites in the fridge?
You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container.

3. Can I make these bites ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the shells with cream cheese and jelly and freeze them before baking. Just add baking time if frozen.

4. What can I serve with these appetizer bites?
These bites go great with drinks like wine or cocktails. You can also pair them with a fresh salad or vegetable platter.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites

To make your preparation easier, you can do a few things ahead of time:

• Prepare the phyllo shells and fill them with cream cheese the day before your event. Cover and refrigerate until needed.
• You can also mix the cream cheese with any spices or herbs a day ahead. This allows the flavors to meld together.
• If using fresh toppings like thyme or green onion, chop them ahead of time and store in a small container in the fridge.

Following these tips will help you serve a perfect appetizer with minimal stress. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful bites!

Print