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Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites

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This Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer is a crowd-pleasing favorite that combines creamy cheese with sweet and spicy pepper jelly. Serve it as a dip or in phyllo cups for a versatile, elegant, and incredibly easy party snack.

  • Total Time: 12 minutes
  • Yield: Dip serves 6–8; 15 phyllo bites

Ingredients

  • 8 oz block of cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 to 1/2 cup pepper jelly (red pepper, jalapeño, or habanero)
  • Assorted crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables (for serving)
  • Optional: chopped nuts, sliced green onions, or fresh herbs for garnish
  • 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

  1. For the dip: Place softened cream cheese on a serving plate. Spoon pepper jelly on top. Garnish with chopped nuts, green onions, or herbs if desired. Serve with crackers or vegetables.
  2. For the phyllo bites: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange mini phyllo shells on a baking sheet. Fill each with 1 teaspoon cream cheese and top with 1/2 teaspoon pepper jelly. Bake for 5–7 minutes until warm and crisp. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Use goat cheese, brie, or vegan cream cheese for variations.
  • Try cranberry-jalapeño, pineapple-habanero, or mango-pepper jelly for different flavor profiles.
  • Top with chopped nuts, fresh jalapeños, or honey for added flavor and texture.
  • Assemble phyllo bites ahead but bake just before serving for best results.
  • Store leftover dip in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-Cook (Dip), Baking (Phyllo Bites)
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 phyllo bite or 2 tbsp dip
  • Calories: 90
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg