Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites
A sweet and spicy appetizer featuring creamy full-fat cream cheese topped with vibrant pepper jelly. Serve with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or cucumber rounds for an effortless party snack.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
8 oz block cream cheese
1 cup pepper jelly (red or green)
2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped (optional)
1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional)
Crackers, toasted baguette slices, or cucumber rounds for serving
Instructions
1. Remove cream cheese from refrigerator 15 minutes before serving to soften. Place on a serving plate or shallow bowl and create a shallow well in the center.
2. Spoon pepper jelly over the cream cheese, filling the well and allowing it to cascade slightly over the sides. Optional: warm jelly for 10–15 seconds for a glossy finish.
3. Garnish with chopped chives, lemon zest, garlic powder, or sea salt as desired. Arrange crackers, baguette slices, or vegetables around the dip. For bite-sized versions, spread cream cheese on crackers and top with a dollop of pepper jelly and a tiny chive.
Notes
Light cream cheese can be used for a softer, lower-fat version.
Goat cheese provides a tangy alternative.
Mix hot pepper jam with regular jam for customized heat.