Easy Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites

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These Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, making them a delightful addition to any gathering or party menu. With a crispy puff pastry base, creamy center, and a hint of spice from the pepper jelly, these bites are sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

  • Cooking spray
  • 1 (14-oz.) package puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 (8-oz.) block cold cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup pepper jelly
  • Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease 2 (24-cup) mini muffin pans with cooking spray.
  2. Unroll the puff pastry on a clean surface and cut it into 24 equal pieces. Press each piece into a muffin cup in the prepared pans.
  3. Bake for 12 minutes, or until the puff pastry is lightly golden and puffed. Let it cool slightly.
  4. Cut the cream cheese into 24 small pieces and gently press one piece into the center of each puff pastry cup. Top each with about 1 heaping teaspoon of pepper jelly.
  5. Return the bites to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the cream cheese is warmed through.
  6. Optionally, garnish with fresh thyme leaves for added flavor and color. Let the bites cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Variation

  1. Substitute the pepper jelly with fig jam for a sweeter flavor.
  2. Add a small slice of prosciutto under the cream cheese before adding the jelly for a savory twist.
  3. Use goat cheese instead of cream cheese for a tangier bite.

Cooking Notes

  1. Ensure cream cheese is cold to make cutting into pieces easier.
  2. If you don’t have mini muffin pans, regular muffin pans can be used; baking time may vary.
  3. Make sure to keep an eye on the ovens after returning bites for final bake, as puff pastries can brown quickly.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Pair with a glass of sparkling wine or champagne for an elegant touch.
  2. Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a light meal.
  3. Include in a charcuterie board with various cheeses and fruits.

Tips

  • Thaw puff pastry in the fridge overnight for best results.
  • Use a sharp knife or pastry cutter for clean cuts of the puff pastry.
  • Garnish just before serving to ensure the thyme’s freshness.

Prep Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 85
  • Protein: 1g
  • Sodium: 90mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make these bites ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare them up to the baking step, refrigerate, and bake fresh before serving.
  2. What other jellies can I use?
    Apricot or cranberry jellies are also excellent choices.
  3. Can these be frozen?
    It’s best to enjoy them fresh, as freezing can change the texture.
  4. Are there gluten-free alternatives?
    Use gluten-free puff pastry if available.

Conclusion

These Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites are incredibly easy to make and deliver a complex blend of flavors that dance on your palate. Perfect for any occasion, they are quick to prepare and guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or an elegant party, these delicious bites will add a charming touch to your menu. Enjoy the balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy textures while mingling with friends and family.

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Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites

  • Author: ChefSophia
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 24 bites 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

These Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, making them a delightful addition to any gathering or party menu. With a crispy puff pastry base, creamy center, and a hint of spice from the pepper jelly, these bites are sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Cooking spray
  • 1 (14-oz.) package puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 (8-oz.) block cold cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup pepper jelly
  • Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease 2 (24-cup) mini muffin pans with cooking spray.
  2. Unroll the puff pastry on a clean surface and cut it into 24 equal pieces. Press each piece into a muffin cup in the prepared pans.
  3. Bake for 12 minutes, or until the puff pastry is lightly golden and puffed. Let it cool slightly.
  4. Cut the cream cheese into 24 small pieces and gently press one piece into the center of each puff pastry cup. Top each with about 1 heaping teaspoon of pepper jelly.
  5. Return the bites to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the cream cheese is warmed through.
  6. Optionally, garnish with fresh thyme leaves for added flavor and color. Let the bites cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure the puff pastry is thoroughly thawed before attempting to unroll it, as this will prevent tearing.
  • For a milder flavor, choose a light pepper jelly or reduce the amount used.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bite
  • Calories: 85
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Pepper jelly, cream cheese bites, appetizer, party food

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