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Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Bites

  • Author: Chef Sophia
  • Total Time: 10–20 minutes
  • Yield: 12–16 bites 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Bites are the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet with just a hint of heat. They’re an effortless appetizer that looks elegant but takes mere minutes to prepare. Whether served on crispy crackers or nestled in delicate phyllo cups, these little bites bring a touch of sophistication to any party platter. The contrast of silky cream cheese with the sparkle of pepper jelly makes them an irresistible crowd-pleaser for holidays, brunches, or last-minute entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup pepper jelly (red or green)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 package of crackers (your choice) or 12 phyllo cups
  • Fresh herbs for garnish (optional parsley, chives, or cilantro work beautifully)

Instructions

  1. Mix the base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, pepper jelly, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
  2. Assemble the bites:
    • If using crackers: Spread about a tablespoon of the mixture on each cracker, creating a thick, luscious layer.
    • If using phyllo cups: Spoon the mixture into each shell, filling them generously to the top.
  3. Garnish and serve: Arrange the prepared bites neatly on a serving platter. Add a sprinkle of finely chopped herbs for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
  4. Chill or serve: Serve immediately for a soft, creamy texture, or refrigerate for up to 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and firm up slightly before serving.

Notes

  1. Softening the Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing this guarantees a smooth, lump-free texture that’s easy to spread or pipe into phyllo cups.
  2. Balance of Flavors: If your pepper jelly is particularly sweet, add a small pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon juice to bring balance and enhance the overall flavor.
  3. Serving Temperature: These bites taste best slightly chilled about 10–15 minutes after refrigeration. The cooling helps the flavors meld while keeping the cream cheese firm enough for easy handling.
  4. Storage Advice: If preparing ahead of time, store the cream cheese mixture separately and assemble the bites just before serving to prevent sogginess, especially when using crackers.
  5. Spice Level Adjustment: If serving guests with varying spice tolerances, consider offering two versions one with mild jelly and one with a hotter jelly clearly labeled on your serving tray.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: —
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bite
  • Calories: 110
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: pepper jelly appetizer, cream cheese bites, holiday appetizer, phyllo cup snacks, easy party food

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Find it online: https://chefsophia.com/pepper-jelly-cream-cheese-bites/