Why Make This Recipe
This Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites recipe is perfect for any gathering. It combines a delicious sweet and spicy flavor with a creamy texture that everyone will love. It’s quick to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients, and it looks fancy, making you a superstar host without much effort. Whether it’s a small get-together or a larger party, these bites will have your guests coming back for more.
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)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange the phyllo shells on a baking sheet.
- Fill each shell with about 1 teaspoon of cream cheese.
- Top each with about 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly.
- Bake for 5–7 minutes or until the shells are crisp and the cream cheese is warmed.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme or green onion, if using.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
How to Serve Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites
These bites can be served warm or at room temperature, making them great for any occasion. Arrange them nicely on a platter for a beautiful display. They pair well with drinks and are perfect for entertaining. You can also serve them as part of a bigger snack spread, alongside crackers and vegetables.
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 last for about 2-3 days. To reheat, place them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through, as this helps maintain their crispiness.
Tips to Make Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites
- To ensure the cream cheese is soft, take it out of the fridge about an hour before you start.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper jelly to your taste. If you prefer less sweetness, use a little less jelly.
- For a little extra crunch, you can sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before baking.
Variation
You can switch up the flavor by using different types of jelly, such as apricot or raspberry, instead of red pepper jelly. This small change can create a different taste experience for your guests.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can fill the phyllo shells with cream cheese and jelly ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just bake them right before serving.
3. What can I serve with this dip?
These bite-sized appetizers go well with a variety of drinks, including wine, beer, or cocktails, and can be served alongside other snack items like crackers and veggies.
Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites
Ingredients
For the bites
- 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
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange the phyllo shells on a baking sheet.
- Fill each shell with about 1 teaspoon of cream cheese.
- Top each with about 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly.
Baking
- Bake for 5–7 minutes or until the shells are crisp and the cream cheese is warmed.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme or green onion, if using.
Serving
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
