Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites
I recently discovered a delightful appetizer that never fails to impress at gatherings, and today I’m excited to share it with you. The Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites combine the creamy richness of cream cheese with the sweet and spicy kick of red pepper jelly, all nestled into satisfying little phyllo shells. Perfect for game day, holiday parties, or simply welcoming friends into your home, these bites elevate any occasion. Plus, they come together in mere minutes!
Why you’ll love this dish
What truly makes this appetizer stand out is its simplicity and versatility. It’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking just about 15 minutes from start to finish—it’s a lifesaver when unexpected guests arrive! The taste combination of sweet and savory is always a crowd-pleaser, making it an ideal option for gatherings.
"I brought this to a potluck and it disappeared in minutes! Everyone kept asking for the recipe. It’s so easy to make and looks fancy too!"
Imagine serving these at your next brunch or holiday dinner—your guests will be impressed, and you won’t feel overwhelmed.
Step-by-step overview
This recipe might seem simple, but every step counts to achieve the perfect bite. You’ll want to gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and arrange your phyllo shells before filling them with cream cheese and a dollop of red pepper jelly. In just a few minutes in the oven, you’ll have a warm and inviting appetizer ready to serve.
What 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)
Feel free to use low-fat cream cheese or sugar-free jelly if you’re looking for lighter alternatives without sacrificing flavor.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange the mini phyllo shells on a baking sheet.
- Fill each shell with about 1 teaspoon of cream cheese.
- Top each with approximately 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly.
- Bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the shells are crisp and the cream cheese is warmed through.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme or green onion if desired.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Best ways to enjoy it
To really impress your guests, serve these bites on a beautiful platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or edible flowers for an aesthetic touch. You can also pair them with a refreshing salad or a selection of crackers. For drinks, consider serving these with a chilled white wine or sparkling water infused with citrus for a bright contrast to the richness of the dip.
Storage and reheating tips
If you happen to have leftovers—though I doubt it—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the phyllo shells soggy, diminishing that wonderful crunch.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a couple of pro tips to elevate your appetizer game with this recipe:
- Ensure your cream cheese is softened for easy spreading; this can be achieved by taking it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start.
- For an added textural element and flavor depth, consider toasting your phyllo shells for an extra minute or two before adding the cream cheese and jelly.
Creative twists
Want to switch it up? Here are some variations to consider:
- Swap out the red pepper jelly for jalapeño jelly for an added kick.
- Incorporate a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese on top for a Mediterranean twist.
- Try using flavored cream cheese, such as garlic and herb or even sun-dried tomato, to give an unexpected twist to each bite.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make this recipe?
This quick appetizer can be prepared in about 15 minutes, making it an efficient choice for entertaining.
Can I use low-fat ingredients?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese and sugar-free jelly work great without losing much flavor.
What’s the best way to serve these?
These can be served warm or at room temperature, making them a flexible appetizer for any event.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
While they are best fresh, you can freeze the unbaked phyllo shells filled with cream cheese and jelly. Just be sure to bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
With this Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites recipe, you’re set for a culinary success that’s both effortless and delicious. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these bites are sure to be a hit! Enjoy!
Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites
Ingredients
For the Bites
- 1 box mini phyllo shells (15-count)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened Can use low-fat cream cheese.
- 1/4 cup red pepper jelly Sugar-free jelly can be used.
- to taste fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion for garnish Optional for aesthetic.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange the mini phyllo shells on a baking sheet.
- Fill each shell with about 1 teaspoon of cream cheese.
- Top each with approximately 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 through.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme or green onion if desired.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
