Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer
This effortless, crowd-pleasing appetizer perfectly balances creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors. Whether served as a elegant dip or bite-sized snack, it takes under 15 minutes of prep time to create a sophisticated, vibrant dish that is perfect for any party or last-minute gathering.
Equipment
- Medium mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or sturdy spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Small spoon or piping bag (for filling bites)
- Serving bowl or platter
- Plastic wrap or airtight container
Ingredients
- 8 oz block cream cheese softened at room temperature
- ½ cup pepper jelly red, cranberry-pepper, or your preferred heat level
- ¼ cup green onions finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro finely chopped
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- For Serving: Crackers toasted baguette slices, or mini phyllo shells
- Optional Garnish: Sliced jalapeños and extra fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Prep: Let cream cheese soften for 30–45 minutes. Prepare garnishes.
- Blend: In a medium bowl, beat or fold the softened cream cheese and pepper jelly until smooth and free of lumps.
- Combine: Gently fold in the green onions, cilantro, and garlic powder until evenly distributed.
- Assemble:
- For Dip: Scoop into a serving bowl and smooth the top.
- For Bites: Dollop onto crackers, toasted baguette, or into mini phyllo shells.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the texture to set.
- Serve: Garnish with jalapeño slices and extra cilantro just before serving.
Notes
Nutrition Facts (Per ¼ cup serving)
- Calories: ~176 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g (9g saturated)
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 120–150mg
- Carbohydrates: 15–18g (12–15g sugars)
- Protein: 3–4g
- Note: Crackers or bread add approximately 60–80 calories per serving.